There are no state agencies that enforce any type of formal EKG technician training and certification requirements in the great state of Connecticut. Facilities are given freedom to set their own expectations for technicians working in the cardiac department. Since the state does not regulate technicians who choose to work in this profession, requirements for employment often vary among employers. Individuals who want to become a technician are encouraged to contact employers directly to learn about their unique requirements.
Delegation Guidelines
Similar to other states, Connecticut classifies EKG technicians as unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP). UAPs are often allowed to provide select patient care services subject to nurse delegation guidelines. Additional details relating to the delegation of nursing tasks to unlicensed personnel can be found in the Nurse Practice Act. In most cases, a registered nurse must make an assessment of an individual’s competency, the patient’s condition, and anticipated treatment outcomes prior to the delegation of a task to an unlicensed staff member. The nurse assumes full responsibility for the care that is provided and may be required to supervise individual’s as they perform delegated tasks.
Education and Training Requirements
EKG technicians enter the profession using a variety of different approaches that may or may not include previous work experience in a closely related medical specialty. Individuals who have completed formal education and training prior to applying for a position as a technician often find that they receive preference in the hiring process. There are many employers who actively seek to hire individuals who understand the unique requirements of direct patient care and who possess some type of allied health credential. Aspiring technicians who are considering an indirect approach to becoming an EKG technician may want to consider pursing either the nurse aide or radiographer professions.
The Connecticut Department of Public Health is responsible for administering the state’s nurse aide competency exam and maintaining the nurse aide registry. Individuals who are interested in becoming a nurse aide must first complete an approved training program and pass a certifying exam within 24 months of program completion. A list of approved training programs can be found by clicking here. The Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) credential is an excellent entry-level opportunity that can enhance an individual’s resume and give them the edge they need to stand out from other EKG technician job applicants.
An alternate career opportunity is that of a radiographer. A course of study in radiologic technology that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the American Medical Association must be completed. Programs that are deemed equal to the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) are often considered acceptable. Applicants also have to pass an exam in radiography and/or radiation technology. More information can be found on the Department of Public Health website.
State Contact Information
Connecticut Department of Health
Phone: (860) 509-7603
Alternate: (860) 509-8000
Email: webmaster.dph@ct.gov
410 Capitol Avenue PO Box 340308 Hartford, CT 06134
Phone: (860) 509-7624
Fax: (860) 509-7553
Email: webmaster.dph@ct.gov
410 Capitol Avenue, MS #13PHO, PO Box 340308 Hartford, CT 06134
