EKG Technician Programs in Spokane, Washington
Becoming an EKG Technician in Spokane, Washington
If you’re considering a career as an EKG Technician in Spokane, Washington, you’ve chosen an exciting and rewarding field in healthcare. EKG Technicians, also known as Electrocardiograph Technicians or Cardiovascular Technicians, play a critical role in diagnosing and monitoring patients’ heart health. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming an EKG Technician, local training options, and employment opportunities in Spokane.
EKG Technicians typically operate electrocardiogram equipment, perform stress tests, and assist physicians in diagnosing cardiovascular conditions. Whether you’re starting your first career or transitioning from another field, Spokane has resources to help you achieve your goals.
About Spokane
Situated in eastern Washington, Spokane is the cultural and economic hub of the Inland Northwest, known for its beautiful outdoors and a welcoming community. The city is home to Riverfront Park, the historic Davenport Hotel, and the nearby Mount Spokane, making it an excellent place to live, work, and study. To learn more about Spokane, visit the official city website.
EKG Technician Training Programs in Spokane, Washington
Spokane is home to reputable institutions that offer EKG Technician programs. Below are some schools you can consider:
Spokane Community College (SCC)
The Healthcare Division at Spokane Community College provides healthcare training that includes EKG-specific coursework. While SCC focuses on comprehensive allied health education, students interested in EKG training can inquire about relevant courses.
Location: 1810 N Greene St, Spokane, WA 99217
Visit Spokane Community CollegeNorthwest Phlebotomy School – Spokane
Although primarily focused on phlebotomy, this school offers an EKG Technician course that combines classroom instruction and hands-on training. Their programs are designed to prepare students for national certification.
Location: 607 E Holland Ave, Spokane, WA 99218
Visit Northwest Phlebotomy School – SpokanePIMA Medical Institute – Spokane
PIMA Medical Institute offers a range of allied health programs and is known for its hands-on approach to healthcare training. They offer EKG-related training as part of their Medical Assistant and other healthcare curricula.
Location: 3700 N Market St, Spokane, WA 99207
Visit PIMA Medical Institute
If you’re willing to travel, additional EKG Technician programs are offered in neighboring cities such as Seattle, with many institutions also providing online options.
EKG Technician Employment Opportunities in Spokane
After completing your training, Spokane offers a variety of healthcare facilities where you can begin your career:
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center & Children’s Hospital
One of the largest hospitals in the area, Sacred Heart is renowned for cardiology and heart-related care. This facility frequently seeks skilled EKG Technicians for their cardiovascular departments.
Location: 101 W 8th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Explore Careers at Sacred HeartMultiCare Deaconess Hospital
MultiCare Deaconess is a major healthcare provider in Spokane, offering extensive services including cardiology. EKG Technicians are in demand for patient monitoring and stress testing.
Location: 800 W 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204
Visit MultiCare CareersVA Medical Center – Spokane
Serving veterans in the region, the VA Medical Center provides specialized care. Careers here can be highly rewarding, with opportunities to serve those who have served the country.
Location: 4815 N Assembly St, Spokane, WA 99205
Learn About VA Careers
Prerequisites for EKG Technician Programs
To enroll in an EKG Technician program in Spokane, students typically need the following:
- Minimum Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
- Age Requirement: Most programs require students to be at least 18 years of age.
- Background Checks: Some programs may ask for a criminal background check and drug screening.
- Medical Requirements: Proof of immunizations or a recent physical exam may be necessary.
Be sure to check the specific prerequisites for each program to ensure a seamless application process.
EKG Technician Certification Requirements
In Spokane and across Washington state, certification is strongly recommended though not mandated by law. Here are the steps and requirements for certification:
- Complete a Training Program: Accredited EKG Technician training programs provide the education and clinical experience needed to excel.
- National Certification Exam: After completing your training or having at least one year of supervised work experience, you’ll need to pass a certification exam. Commonly recognized certification bodies include:
- National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
- American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians (ASPT)
- National Center for Competency Testing
- Hands-On Experience: Certification exams often require proof of having completed a minimum of 10 EKG tests on live patients.
Obtaining certification demonstrates your expertise and can improve employment prospects.
Get Started Today
Becoming an EKG Technician in Spokane, Washington, is an achievable and inspiring career path that contributes significantly to patient care. Whether you’re drawn to Spokane’s strong healthcare community or the convenience of local training programs, now is the time to take the first step. Contact one of the schools listed above to begin your journey toward becoming a certified EKG Technician.
For more information about the job outlook for Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.