ECG/EKG Tech vs Monitor Tech

[superkeys]

I recently got certified as an ECG/EKG technician through a coursework that primarily dealt with single lead interpretations, all Lead II in fact. The certification agency was the NCCT. The program says I should be qualified to apply to be a ecg/ekg tech and a monitor tech. When applying for jobs, monitor tech positions do not mention 12-lead interpretations only familiarity with basic arrhythmia. However, when inquiring further it seems that I DO need to be adept in interpreting all 12 leads. The NCCT exam and coursework I took all focused only on lead II, was I scammed? What exam should I be taking and what coursework would train me to be adept in reading all 12 leads?

[grrl]

I'm surprised they only focused on lead II. It will definitely help you to learn to read other leads, because in some occasions, lead II may not be the best lead (e.g., axis deviation, infarct, etc).

You can learn a lot online through a Google search, but if you are looking for a book, my favorite is Rapid Interpretation by Dale Dubin. There are others though. Just find what works best for you! Good luck. :)

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Monitor tech positions are NOT responsible for interpretation of 12-lead or physical assessment findings. Obtaining 12 leads is a whole different thing. Monitor techs are only responsible for watching continuous rhythm tracings and notifying RNs when certain parameters are breached. There are general parameters (rate, rhythm, etc) but "irregularities that need to be reported" may be customized based upon the patient's baseline status.... for instance, If a patient has a history of occasional unifocal PVCs, there is no need to report these.

Facilities that employ monitor techs will have very specific policies & procedures that outline exactly what is supposed to be done, but patient assessment & validation of rhythm interpretation ALWAYS remain the responsibility of the RN / physician who are managing the patient's care.

Lead II is most commonly used, but some telemetry systems have 5 leads, so you can actually switch between different views to see which one is best for the patient/situation. Monitor techs may also be responsible for applying telemetry to the patient, changing leads, minor maintenance (checking and changing lead wires as needed, adjusting print heads, adding paper, etc) as well as ensuring that scheduled & prn tracings are added to the patient record.

Good luck on your job search.