College of DuPage
Non-Invasive
Electrocardiography
Certificate Program
The Non-Invasive Electrocardiography program provides the student with didactic,
laboratory and clinical experience in preparation for a health career as a
Certified Non-Invasive Electrocardiographic Technician.
Note: Please see specific program registration or admission packets for detailed information on when to begin completing health requirements, drug
tests, CPR, criminal background checks and proof of insurance submission. Timing varies depending upon either entrance to or participation in the
clinical component of a given program. Funds paid to Edward Corporate Health or to a personal health care provider/ source, Criminal
Background.com (soon to be Castle Branch) insurance companies, and funds used towards CPR completion are not eligible for any sort of refund
from College of DuPage if the required course(s) are not successfully completed.
Nancy Feulner M.S. Ed., MT (ASCP)
Program Coordinator
(630) 942-2124
Feulner@cod.edu
Date Last Revised: 8/29/2013
College of DuPage
Non-Invasive Electrocardiography Certificate Program
Electrocardiography (EKG) is a procedure that records the electrical activity of the heart muscle via
electrodes placed on the chest and displays it as a visual record or tracing. This tracing provides valuable
information about the electrical activity in the heart as it relates to both the conduction system of the heart
and the normal or abnormal formation of electrical impulses. EKG is a highly specialized and technical tool
used for assessing cardiac function and diagnosing cardiac disease. Non-invasive EKG procedures do not
involve incisions or entry into the thoracic (chest) cavity.
EKG technicians work directly with patients. They have the responsibility of placing leads on the patient and
recording the electrical activity of the heart with a 12-lead EKG machine, performing stress testing, and
holter monitor testing of patients. The EKG program now includes a module in telemetry in both the
didactic and the clinical component. Telemetry is a highly automated communications process by which
measurements are made and data collected at remote or inaccessible points and then the data is
transmitted to receiving equipment. Telemetry is used for patients who are at risk of abnormal heart
activity, generally in a coronary care unit. Such patients are outfitted with measuring, recording and
transmitting devices. Telemetry technicians are responsible for monitoring patients on these devises.
Numerous telemetery positions are available in many hospitals.
The EKG technician must set high standards for themselves and be deeply committed to the delivery of
quality health care. The cardiologist depends on the EKG technician to collect quality tracings that allow the
physician to make accurate diagnoses and deliver exceptional patient care. To do this, the EKG technician
must understand the importance of correct lead placement and monitoring of the patient while performing
EKGs in a skillful, safe and reliable manner. The ability of the EKG technician to recognize normal and
abnormal tracings as well as identify artifacts on a tracing is critical to the accuracy of the test results.
EKG technicians must like challenge and responsibility. They must be accurate, work well under pressure
and communicate effectively as they are a vital member of the health care team. Because the EKG
technician works directly with the patient, he or she must also act as the “eyes and ears” of the doctors,
nurses and office professionals. The EKG technician must relay any important information during
interaction with patients to the cardiologist and must be able to handle emergency situations, if necessary.
In 2012, the average EKG technician earned $15 to $16 per hour. Employment is expected to grow by 29
percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than average for all occupations. As imaging technology evolves,
medical facilities will use it to replace more invasive, costly procedures. As the number of elderly people
increases, so too will their need for cardiac care.
Mission Statement
The goal of the Non-Invasive Electrocardiography program is to provide students with didactic, laboratory
and clinical experiences in preparation for a health career as a Certified Non-Invasive Electrocardiographic
Technician. Upon completion, the student will deliver compassionate patient care to all patients and will
function as an integral member of the health care team with competence and confidence.
Program Information Disclaimer
This program information packet is published for that purpose; however, the information in this packet is
not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between the student and the program. The program reserves
the right to change, at any time, without notice, requirements, fees and other charges, curriculum, course
structure and content, and other such matters as may be within its control, not withstanding any
information set forth in the program information packet in accordance with College of DuPage policies and
procedures.
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Standard Skills in EKG
To participate in the clinical education portion of the Non-Invasive Electrocardiography program, the
student must possess additional non-academic skills. These technical standards are consistent with the
duties of the entry-level technician in a professional position. These skills, which protect the health and
well‐being of patients, may include but are not limited to the ability to:
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Move, adjust equipment and perform EKG procedures
Position patients for procedures
Respond appropriately to sounds such as the patient’s voice and movements at a normal
conversational volume
Demonstrate visual acuity to assess the equipment
Manipulate appropriate equipment
Perform for a prolonged period without breaks in a typical shift of eight hours
Communicate orally and in writing in the English language with patients, doctors and other personnel
clearly and effectively
Follow verbal and written directions in the English language
Respond appropriately to emergency procedures
If you are uncertain of your ability to perform these essential functions or feel you need reasonable
accommodations to perform them, please consult with Special Student Services
Non-Discrimination Policy
The Non-Invasive Electrocardiography Certificate program does not discriminate in its programs and activities on the
basis of race, color, religion or creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, martial status, sexual orientation, arrest
record, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, citizenship status, use of lawful products while
not at work, physical or mental handicap or disability. (Board Policy 15-5)
Non-discrimination applies to all areas of the college, including the following departments: Admissions, Educational
Services, Employment, Financial Aid, Placement and Recruitment. The lack of English language skills shall not be a
barrier to admission and participation in educational programs. Admissions criteria and descriptions of educational
programs are available in the college’s printed and online semester Class Schedule and college Catalog.
The following person has been designated to handle student inquiries regarding non-discrimination policy:
Student Inquiries Concerning Non-Discrimination
Statement
Dean of Student Affairs, SSC 3200
(630) 942-3224
Employee and Visitor Inquiries
Director, Human Resources/Affirmative Action
Officer
(630) 942-2460; FAX (630) 942-4027
TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) – (630) 858-9692
American with Disabilities Act accommodations, call (630) 942-2141 (voice) or (630) 858-9692 (TDD).
NOTE: Do not call the numbers above for information about the Noninvasive EKG program. Contact information for the
Noninvasive EKG program is on page 1 of this packet.
Citizenship/Visa Status
If you are not a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident of the U.S., and if you have any questions or concerns
regarding your eligibility to work/participate in the Phlebotomy/EKG program clinical assignments or your
eligibility to apply for the Phlebotomy certification examination, please contact the International Student
office, SSC 2225, (630) 942-3328, e-mail: intlstdt@cod.edu.
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College Admission
In order to register for courses students must submit a College of DuPage Admission Form online or in person in
the College of DuPage Admissions & Outreach office, SSC 2207 and pay the non-refundable $20 application
fee. This is an admission form for the College of DuPage only. Students will receive a My Access ID number
after completion of admission paperwork. The ID number is used to register for courses.
Academic Prerequisites
1. Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Health Science 1110, Biomedical Terminology, with a grade of
“C” or higher.
2. To register for HLTHS 1110 and 1126 concurrently students must register in person
The above material must be on file prior to registration.
Course Requirements
The courses in this program can register only a limited number of students. The number of students registered
in the EKG courses is determined by the current availability of clinical sites. Currently we offer sections in all
terms, including summer. Students will be assigned a clinical site that offers adequate supervision/mentoring
with an appropriate learning environment.
The Non-Invasive Electrocardiography Certificate program is an intensive curriculum, with classes in Basic EKG
the first semester and Advanced EKG the second semester. The EKG clinical experience is offered after
completion of both the basic and advanced EKG courses and is designed to meet the needs of the students and
the clinical affiliation. Clinical placement is the decision of the program coordinator.
Prerequisite
Health Science 1110 Biomedical Terminology
4 credit hours
1st Semester
Health Science 1126
2 credit hours
Basic EKG
2nd Semester
Health Science 1128 Advanced EKG
3 credit hours
Students must receive a “C” or higher in Health Science 1110, Health Science 1126 and Health Science 1128
to continue with the clinical component.
3rd Semester
Health Science 1129
EKG Clinical
Total credits for certificate
1 credit hour
10 credit hours
Upon successful completion of all program requirements students are eligible to sit for the Certified
Cardiographic Exam through by Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). Upon passing this exam, the
student becomes a Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT). For more information about CCI or the CCT exam
visit the Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) website. Students can also petition to receive a
certificate from the college upon completion of the required courses.
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Clinical Requirements must be completed before registering for HLTHS 1129
1. Medical Malpractice Insurance is required and is included in the tuition of HLTHS 1129.
o Students must be registered and listed on the instructor’s course roster to be covered by this
malpractice insurance.
2. Health Requirements include a medical history, physical, and proof of immunity for rubella, rubeola,
varicella, mumps and Hepatitis B. If not immune, immunizations are required. Also required is a flu shot,
diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (Tdap) vaccination, a two-step TB test and a drug screen.
3. CPR Certification is required before registering for HLTHS 1129
4. Criminal Background Checks are required before beginning a clinical assignment. If a student is found
guilty of a felony, clinical facilities may not allow a clinical assignment.
5. Students are responsible for their own medical care and health insurance.
6. Transportation: Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the clinical
site.
Clinical Sites available (subject to change)
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Alexian Brothers Medical Center
Central DuPage Hospital (CDH)
Delnor Community Hospital
DuPage Medical Group
Edward Hospital
Elmhurst Hospital
Glen Oaks Hospital
Good Samaritan Hospital
Hinsdale Hospital
Provena Mercy Medical Center
Provena St. Joseph
Rush Copley Hospital
St. Alexius Medical Center
Elk Grove Village
Winfield
Geneva
Downers Grove
Naperville
Elmhurst
Glendale Heights
Downers Grove
Hinsdale
Aurora
Joliet
Aurora
Hoffman Estates
Non-Invasive Electrocardiography Advising Sessions are available on an individual basis. For more
information, contact Nancy Feulner M.S. Ed., MT (ASCP), (630) 942-2124, Feulner@cod.edu
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College of DuPage
Health Science Programs
POLICY FOR PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT IN CLASSROOMS, AND AT LABORATORY/CLINICAL SITES
Revised Fall 2013
Socialization of students to appropriate professional conduct is a significant component of the Health Science Programs of College of DuPage (the
“Programs”). Students in the Programs are expected and required to be reliable and competent, exercise sound judgment, act with a high degree of
personal integrity, represent themselves and College of DuPage (the “College”) in a respectful manner, and observe all the rules and regulations of the
clinical sites to which they are assigned. Students also have a responsibility to protect the welfare and safety of the patients/clients for whom services
are being provided. Students placed at clinical sites must realize the privilege of this experience, its responsibilities, and the reflection on the College of
DuPage and its numerous health programs. Any violation will be handled immediately so as to not affect C.O.D.’s use of the clinical site for future
students.
In accordance with these expectations, when participating in laboratory exercises and /or assigned to clinical sites, students in the Programs must
adhere to the following Policy for Professional Conduct. This Policy is in addition to the Student Code of Conduct outlined in College catalogs and/or
policy (Board Policy 20-35).
The policy of Professional Conduct includes, but is not limited to,
1.
Providing competent and reliable services to patients/clients using sound judgment and discretion. Students are expected to:
a.
be prepared for the learning environment and actively participate in appropriate ways to ensure learning of key
components
b.
be on time
c.
refrain from excessive absenteeism
d.
remain in assigned work areas, leaving only with permission
e.
not leave patients unattended and/or release patients without prior approval from a qualified staff member (if
applicable).
2.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to patients/clients and their families
3.
Demonstrating respect and courtesy to peers/classmates, instructors, supervisors and all other members of the health care
provider team in classrooms and at the site
4.
Cooperating with faculty, staff and peers without insubordination
5.
Providing care and/or services on a non-discriminatory basis
6.
Performing only procedures and/or services authorized by supervisor(s) in accordance with accepted professional standards.
7.
Observing the rules and regulations of classrooms, and all clinical facilities including (but not limited to):
a.
Proper use of equipment and other property
b.
Not removing property of clinical facilities
c.
Not distributing, possessing, and/or being under influence of illegal drugs or controlled substances,
d.
Not possessing and/or being under the influence of alcohol
e.
Complying with all current health requirements, drug testing and criminal background checking requirements
f.
Not possessing or using any type of weapon
g.
Comply with cell phone or other electronic device (i pod, ipad, electronic tablets, etc.) usage consistent with the policies of
the classroom/clinical site or lab.
8.
Maintaining the confidentiality of patient/client information in accordance with recognized professional and institutional rules;
without unauthorized release and/or misuse of patient/client information or institutional data
9.
Maintaining proper dress, appearance, hygiene and decorum in accordance with the standards set by the program, clinical site,
and professions
10.
Complying with the ethical and professional standards set by the profession and the Programs including (but not limited to):
a.
Never taking prescription blanks or writing prescriptions
b.
Never falsifying documents regarding student performance or the care of patients
The penalty for violating the Policy for Professional Conduct will be discipline up to and including suspension or dismissal from the Programs. Due to the
sequential design of the curriculum in most Health Science programs, any period of suspension or dismissal may result in a delay in program completion.
If the disciplinary action is suspension or dismissal from one of the Programs a form will be completed by the program coordinator and submitted to the
appropriate Associate Dean. The student may appeal that disciplinary action to the Health Sciences Professional Conduct Review Board within 10 business
days of the discipline imposed. This appeal must be in writing and submitted to the appropriate Associate Dean in the program area (HSC 1220).
The student will not be permitted to participate in the clinical/lab portion of the Programs during the appeal process. However, the student may
continue with on campus courses until a final decision is rendered from the appeal process. The appeal will result in a hearing before the Health Science
Professional Conduct Review Board, comprised of faculty from other COD health science programs within 5 business days of the date the appeal is filed
with the Associate Dean. Both the student and faculty involved in the disciplinary action may make an oral presentation to the Board in addition to
written comments. There is no further appeal; the decision of the Board is final. If the decision to dismiss or suspend a student from a Program is
upheld, no refund of tuition or fees or equipment or books will be provided. When a student is dismissed from a health program for professional
misconduct, they may never again apply to the same or any other health programs at College of DuPage.
All health programs require completion of current health requirements and drug testing as a condition of program participation. Drug testing
(performed at the student’s expense) will precede clinical experience in all cases, and will be required prior to admission in some programs. Positive
results on a drug screen or misrepresentation regarding drug use will lead to immediate dismissal from, or non-admittance to the particular program(s).
When a student is dismissed from a program for a positive drug screen, he/she may reapply to the same program or to any other College of DuPage
health programs after one year has elapsed.
Criminal background checks are performed at the student’s expense, and are required for many programs prior to admission. Positive results will be
handled by individual program faculty, as per program policies.
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