Job Description: EKG Technician
An EKG Technician specializes in performing and interpreting electrocardiographic procedures that monitor cardiac activity. These professionals are essential in hospitals, clinics, and research facilities, where accurate cardiac data is critical for diagnosis and treatment.
Core Responsibilities:
- Prepare patients and explain EKG procedures.
- Operate and maintain EKG equipment.
- Perform standard and specialty EKGs, stress tests, and Holter monitoring.
- Recognize and report cardiac rhythms.
- Follow infection control and safety standards.
📜 Credential Overview: GCET™ — Globally Certified EKG Technician (GHCWCA)
The GCET™ credential validates competency in cardiac monitoring and diagnostic procedures, aligned with international best practices.
Global Standards & Recognition:
- ISO/IEC 17024 personnel certification framework.
- WHO cardiovascular safety guidelines.
- AHA (American Heart Association) and CLSI standards for cardiac diagnostics and patient safety.
- Promotes international workforce mobility and compliance.
🧪 Exam Content Breakdown (GCET™)
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Patient Preparation & Communication | 15% |
| Anatomy & Physiology of the Heart | 15% |
| EKG Equipment & Operation | 20% |
| Performing EKG Procedures | 25% |
| Cardiac Rhythm Recognition | 15% |
| Infection Control & Safety Standards | 5% |
| Professional Standards & Ethics | 5% |
Format: 125 multiple-choice questions + practical skills assessment
Duration: Written Exam — 2.5 hours | Practical — 30 minutes
Passing Score: 70% or higher
🔍 National vs. Global: GCET™ vs. NHA CET
| Aspect | GCET™ (Global — GHCWCA) | NHA CET (U.S. National) |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition | International recognition aligned with WHO, AHA, ISO, and CLSI. | Widely recognized across the U.S. |
| Global Alignments | ISO/IEC 17024, WHO, AHA, CLSI standards. | Not globally aligned—U.S. only. |
| U.S. Alignments | Meets both U.S. and global practice standards. | NCCA-accredited and trusted by U.S. employers. |
| Scope of Practice | Global competency in EKG procedures and safety protocols. | U.S.-based EKG roles and responsibilities. |
| Mobility & Portability | High international portability across healthcare systems. | Primarily useful in the U.S. |
| Exam & Renewal | 125 MCQs + practical; 2.5h + 30min; renewal every 2 years (CEUs + skills verification). | CET exam with U.S.-based eligibility; renewal every 2 years with 10 CEUs. |
| Training Focus | Emphasis on global best practices—patient prep, rhythm recognition, ethics. | Focused on U.S. clinical practice and equipment use. |
✅ Key Takeaways
- GCET™ (Global): Ideal for professionals seeking internationally recognized EKG certification, aligned with WHO, AHA, and ISO standards for global mobility and credibility.
- NHA CET (U.S.): Excellent for those pursuing U.S.-based careers, backed by NCCA accreditation and widely recognized by American healthcare employers.
👉 Verify credentials and register for examinations at GHCWCA.org