ABOUT
The Certified EKG Technician (CET)® certification is a recognized credential for professionals in the field of electrocardiography. Electrocardiogram technicians play a crucial role in healthcare by performing diagnostic tests, monitoring patients’ cardiovascular health, and providing essential data for physicians. With the rise in medical technology and the aging population, CET® certification has become increasingly vital for demonstrating expertise in EKG procedures.
CERTIFICATION BODY
The CET certification is awarded by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA®), a leading provider of healthcare certifications. The NHA has been a prominent entity in healthcare certification since 1989, with a mission to enhance the quality of patient care and expand career opportunities in the healthcare industry.
LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Understand EKG Basics
- Learn heart anatomy, physiology, and electrocardiography principles.
Perform EKG Procedures
- Prepare patients, operate EKG equipment, and conduct stress and Holter monitoring.
Ensure Safety and Compliance
- Follow infection control practices, adhere to HIPAA, and uphold ethical standards.
Analyze and Interpret EKG Results
- Calculate heart rate, assess rhythm and waveforms, and identify clinical indicators.
Communicate Findings
- Accurately report EKG data and guide patients through procedures.
Handle Emergencies
- Respond to life-threatening arrhythmias and manage complications during testing.
EXAM INFORMATION
The CET exam, developed by the NHA, comprises 100 scored questions covering three main domains:
- Safety, Compliance, & Coordinated Patient Care
- EKG Acquisition
- EKG Analysis & Interpretation
The exam is administered via a live remote proctoring system in partnership with PSI, ensuring a secure and convenient testing environment. Candidates have two hours to complete the exam.
RECERTIFICATION
Periodic Renewal
- Renew CET certification at designated intervals.
Continuing Education
- Complete required continuing education to stay updated with advancements in electrocardiography.
NHA Criteria
- Fulfill any additional renewal requirements set by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
For More Information
Curriculum
- 6 Sections
- 16 Lessons
- 30 Hours
- SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE3
- EKG FUNDAMENTALS2
- EKG PROCEDURE TECHNIQUES4
- 3.1Patient Preparation: Learn how to properly prepare patients for EKG tests, including electrode placement and patient positioning.
- 3.2EKG Equipment Operation: Master the use of EKG machines, including setting parameters and ensuring proper functioning.
- 3.3Stress Testing: Administer and monitor EKGs during physical exertion to assess cardiovascular performance.
- 3.4Holter Monitoring: Set up and manage Holter monitors for extended cardiac monitoring.
- EKG ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION3
- 4.1Heart Rate and Rhythm: Calculate and analyze heart rate, rhythm regularity, and identify arrhythmias.
- 4.2Waveform Analysis: Measure and interpret EKG waveforms, intervals, and segments for accurate diagnosis.
- 4.3Clinical Indicators: Recognize signs of ischemia, injury, infarction, and pacemaker activity.
- COMMUNICATION AND REPORTING2
- EMERGENCY PROCEDURES2
Requirements
- Complete a recognized EKG training program.
- Possess a basic understanding of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology.
- Demonstrate practical experience in performing and interpreting EKGs.
Target audiences
- Current healthcare professionals seeking specialization.
- New entrants to the healthcare field interested in electrocardiography.
- Those aiming to enhance their credentials and career prospects in allied health.