Nationally Certified Multi-Skilled Cardio Technician
CIP Code: 51.0904 • 125 questions • 2.5 hours • Passing score: 70% • Annual renewal
Overview
This credential validates multi-skilled competency in cardiac diagnostics. Certified Cardio Technicians acquire 12-lead EKGs, perform rhythm monitoring, assist with stress testing, and support ambulatory (Holter/event) monitoring while ensuring patient safety, infection control, and accurate documentation.
- Nationally recognized Multi-Skilled Stackable
- Listed in the NHWCA National Registry for employer verification
- Annual renewal: $199 • 10 CEU • Active CPR • No lapse
Why Multi-Skilled?
NHWCA’s multi-skilled model verifies cross-functional readiness across lead placement, acquisition & troubleshooting, rhythm analysis, stress testing support, ambulatory monitoring workflows, safety, and documentation—so cardiology and acute care teams can staff flexibly with one certified professional.
Job Description
The Cardio Technician performs 12-lead EKG acquisition, monitors telemetry, assists with stress tests, prepares/educates patients for Holter/event monitors, ensures signal quality, documents findings, and communicates clinically relevant abnormal results per protocol.
Qualifications (choose one)
- Graduate of an allied health training program; or
- Trained on the job by an accredited healthcare facility; or
- Experience: 3 months verifiable cardiac diagnostics experience.
All candidates must meet age, ID, and conduct requirements per the NHWCA Candidate Handbook.
Exam Structure & Timing
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Question Count | 125 multiple-choice (100 scored + 25 pilot) |
| Time Limit | 2.5 hours (150 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 70% or higher |
| Delivery | Online or approved testing site, proctored, closed-book |
| Question Style | Scenario-based and knowledge-based items |
Exam Domains & Weighting
| Domain | Weight | Approx. Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Rhythm Analysis & Interpretation | 25% | ~31 |
| Lead Placement, Acquisition & Troubleshooting | 20% | ~25 |
| Cardiac Anatomy, Physiology & Pathophysiology | 20% | ~25 |
| Stress Testing & Ambulatory Monitoring (Holter/Event) | 15% | ~19 |
| Patient Safety, Infection Control & Emergency Readiness | 10% | ~12 |
| Documentation, EHR & Communication | 10% | ~12 |
Totals reflect 100 scored items; 25 pilot items do not affect score.
Practice Questions (10)
Included with registration inside the candidate portal. These do not affect your score but mirror the style and depth of the live exam.
Renewal
- Cycle: Annual
- Requirements: $199 • 10 CEU • Active CPR • No lapse
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