Cardio Diagnostic Technician I

About the role

At Houston Methodist, the Cardiology Diagnostic Technician I is an entry‑level technician who performs electrocardiograms (12‑lead EKGs) and Holter monitor applications for both inpatient and outpatient exams. The role processes and transmits EKG and Holter data to designated software applications, ensures exams are available for physician interpretation, completes required paperwork and reconciliation, and collaborates with all members of the patient‑care team.

Schedule

Full‑Time Days (Non‑exempt)

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED, homeschool equivalency, partial or full post‑secondary education, etc.)
• Six months of basic EKG and/or Holter monitor experience (highly preferred)

Licenses and Certifications

• EKG HM – Houston Methodist Electrocardiogram Course (to be completed within 6 months)
• BLS – Basic Life Support or Instructor (American Heart Association)
• One of the following certifications (must be obtained within 18 months):
  • CCT – Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCI)
  • CET – Certified EKG Technician (NHA)
  • CET – Certified EKG Technician (NPS)
  • ECG – Certified ECG Technician (ACA)
  • NRCEKG – Nationally Registered Certified EKG Technician (NAHP)

Knowledge and Abilities

• Demonstrates skills and competencies necessary to safely perform assigned duties, validated through ongoing assessments.
• Proficient in spoken, written, and reading English, especially for patient and employee safety communications.
• Effective communication with patients, physicians, families, and co‑workers, emphasizing customer‑service focus and positive language.
• Basic computer knowledge; ability to operate multiple systems including hospital/radiology/cardiology information systems and office software for patient and exam documentation.
• Strong interpersonal and team‑player skills; delivers excellent customer service to patients, visitors, physicians, and co‑workers.
• Adaptable to multiple ongoing priorities with minimal supervision; organizes workflow and participates in problem‑solving.

Essential Functions

People

• Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team‑focused unit.
• Collaborates with the patient‑care team, communicating pertinent information comprehensively.
• Acts as a patient advocate, addressing ethical issues and facilitating interventions to relieve spiritual distress.
• Contributes to employee‑engagement scores through peer‑to‑peer accountability.

Service

• Performs diagnostic electrocardiograms (12‑lead EKGs) and Holter monitor exams with precise electrode placement.
• Identifies and resolves issues proactively to ensure optimal results.
• Provides physical care for patients during exams and educates them on monitoring unit and electrode care.
• Assists physicians and other health‑care team members during diagnostic exams.
• Uses peer‑to‑peer accountability to improve patient‑satisfaction scores.

Quality / Safety

• Identifies changes or abnormalities in EKG morphology during exams or data processing.
• Takes corrective action or communicates immediately with appropriate personnel.
• Reviews quality of EKG tracings for the care team and interpreting physician.
• Ensures all patient‑care equipment has completed required QC and is safe for use.
• Reports equipment malfunctions, practices preventive maintenance, and initiates service calls as needed.

Finance

• Provides accurate and complete documentation of patient procedures.
• Enters charges at the time service is delivered, when applicable.
• Utilizes resources with cost‑effectiveness and value creation in mind.
• Self‑motivated to manage time effectively, minimize incidental overtime, and prioritize daily tasks while assisting coworkers.

Growth / Innovation

• Participates in departmental projects, shared‑governance activities, and initiatives focused on innovation, efficiency, or patient‑care improvement.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies, focusing on continual development as a technician.
• Ensures career discussions occur with appropriate management and maintains an up‑to‑date Development Plan.

Supplemental Requirements

• Work attire: Uniform – No scrubs; business professional – No.
• On‑call: May be required during emergencies (disaster, severe weather, etc.).
• Travel: May require travel within the Houston Metropolitan area; travel outside the area is not required.