EKG Technician 1

The employee will be able to provide continuous observation of monitored ECG rhythms for patients on telemetry and report pertinent information to appropriate nursing personnel.   The employee will also function independently performing ECG's, halter monitor set up, Bio Z, dictation, EKG editing, completing tasks in Cerner and posting of ECG's.

1. TECHNICAL TASKS
   1. Keeps unit stocked of supplies including forms, patient supplies, equipment & maintains all unit reference materials; keeps the work area clean and orderly.
   2. Appropriately monitors ECG throughout the patient's placement on telemetry by: A. Setting up telemetry channel for patient monitoring. B. Calibrating telemetry monitor module. C. Maintaining rate alarms as designated by nurse. d. Maintaining patient I.D. tags on telemetry floor.
   3. Obtains report from charge nurse regarding patient's rhythm status: A. At the beginning of the shift. B. As needed when patients monitor needs change. C. When new telemetry patient is admitted.
   4. Documents by obtaining a rhythm strip, labeling with patient ID, time and lead monitored, and placing in patient's chart: A. Every four hours. B. When monitored rhythm or rate change occurs.
   5. Accurately & appropriately receives, places, and transfers phone calls, and records and communicates messages; efficiently and accurately uses phones, intercoms and computer.
   6. Completes competencies of Telemetry/ECG tech as required.
   7. Accurately and in a timely manner performs: A. ECG B. ECG disc retrieval, editing and charting. C. Bio-Z (hemodynamic measure). D. Holter monitor set up.
   8. Clearly explains procedures to patients and documents this in the patient record.
   9. Provides for patient privacy at all times.
   10. Edits electrocardiograms through EKG computer paying attention to detail and seeking help if needed.
   11. Posts edited EKGs on patient chart in a timely manner.
   12. Responsible for cleaning and maintaining equipment on every shift according to prescribed guidelines.
   13. Accurately checks Cardiology tasks in Cerner. Follows up and corrects any errors related to ordering and performance of cardiology tasks (ie. ECGs, Bio-Z, Holter), prior to end of shift.
2. Critical Thinking
   1. Troubleshoots monitoring and cardiology equipment and notifies appropriate department for assistance as needed.
   2. Notifies nurse appropriately for observed changes in patients monitored heart rate, rhythm, or patterns. Identifies and reports the following when observed on monitor: A. Premature ventricular contractions (PVC) B. Ventricular Tachycardia (VT). C. Ventricular Fibrillation (V Fib). D. Artifact; electrical muscle movement and loose leads. E. Change in monitored patients heart rate or rhythm.
   3. Assesses work area and responsibilities and provides constructive suggestions to benefit the unit.
   4. Promptly seeks assistance from appropriate personnel when the need arises.
   5. Assists other department employees as needed; assumes additional responsibilities while other employees are on vacation or not scheduled to work.
   6. Consistently demonstrates a willingness to help with work that needs to be done; willing to stay late to complete assigned tasks.
3. Other duties as Assigned
   1. Consistently performs 12 organizational Service Standards focused on Values, Service and Quality.

Education - High school graduate or equivalent

Licensure - BLS Certification