There are no formal rules or regulations that specifically address EKG technician training and certification requirements in the state of Colorado. Although the state does not license technicians in this specialty, many employers adopt their own expectations for those who provide care under the supervision of licensed medical staff. In addition, the state does have laws that create guidelines for the delegation of tasks to unlicensed personnel. Those who plan to pursue this profession are encouraged to review the laws that affect them.
Delegation Guidelines
According to the Colorado Nurses Practice Act (12-38-132), registered nurses are allowed to delegate certain tasks to unlicensed personnel as long as specific guidelines have been met. Delegated tasks must comply with the regulations that follow…
- Be within the area of responsibility of the delegating nurse
- Not require any delegatee to exercise the judgment required of a nurse
- Can be properly and safely performed as determined by the nurse
- A nurse must assess:
- The stability of the condition of the patient
- The training and ability of the delegatee
- The nature of the nursing task being delegated
- Whether the delegated task has a predictable outcome
- Employers may establish additional guidelines for delegated tasks
Education and Training Requirements
In general, most healthcare facilities prefer to hire technicians who have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED and who have been certified in basic cardiac life support. Factors such as prior experience, formal college education, and national certification can improve an individual’s appeal in the job market and may help a technician differentiate themselves from other job applicants. In addition, some facilities may classify technicians as nursing aides and expect them to comply with state regulations that require official training and certification.
According to the Nurse Aide Practice Act, an individual working as an aide must pass a clinical competency evaluation that covers basic nursing skills, personal care skills, recognition of mental health and social services needs, the basic restorative services, and patient rights. In most cases, employers provide a training program to new employees that cover communication and interpersonal skills, infection control, safety and emergency procedures, patient rights, and patient independence. EKG technician training and certification requirements may or may not include the completion of this type of program depending on individual employer expectations.
The EKG technician profession is a unique and exciting employment opportunity that allows individuals to acquire a broad set of specialized skills that can be applied in several areas of healthcare. Although some people do enter the profession without prior experience in patient care, most people find that a few years of work experience in a related field helps to secure a position in the cardiac department. Individuals are encouraged to contact potential employers directly about their expectations and to learn more about becoming an EKG technician.
State Contact Information
Phone: (303) 692-2000
Toll-Free: (800) 886-7689
Email: cdphe.information@state.co.us
4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver, CO 80246
Phone: (303) 894-7800
Fax: (303) 894-7693
Email: dora_registrations@state.co.us
1560 Broadway, Ste. 1350 Denver, CO 80202
