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ECG Assessment: an Introduction for Healthcare Providers

Understand the principles of electrocardiography and learn a step-by-step approach to performing and interpreting an ECG test.

89,096 enrolled on this course

ECG

ECG Assessment: an Introduction for Healthcare Providers

89,096 enrolled on this course

  • 2 weeks

  • 2 hours per week

  • Accreditation available

  • Digital certificate when eligible

  • Introductory level

Find out more about how to join this course

Gain an introduction to ECG assessment and ECG interpretation

This free online course will equip you with an introductory understanding of ECG assessment and interpretation, which will support the further hands-on training that is needed to competently perform the ECG test in clinical practice.

Discover the importance of ECG tests

The electrocardiograph (also known as electrocardiogram) or ECG/EKG is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure, commonly used to assess people with known or suspected heart disease, in a variety of healthcare settings.

Competent recording, reading and interpretation are vital to ensure safe and effective care, yet ECGs are commonly undertaken by unqualified and junior staff, who have received little training. With this course, you’ll learn why an EKG test can be so useful, as well as some of the clinical applications of them.

Explore how to record an ECG

Over two weeks, you will be guided through a step-by-step approach to undertaking the procedure, including ECG lead placement, and how to deal with common challenges you may face in obtaining a high-quality ECG reading.

By the time you’re finished, you’ll understand the steps involved in recording a standard 12 lead ECG.

Learn how to read ECG results

As you progress through the course, you will also explore the principles of electrophysiology, and how to recognise a normal heart rhythm, as well as signs of arrhythmia.

You’ll work on your ECG reading skills, learning how to read ECG reports and what various elements mean.

You will learn through demonstrations and interactive animations, and you’ll get to check your knowledge and deepen your understanding through a variety of quizzes and peer discussions.

Download video: standard or HD

What topics will you cover?

  • What are ECGs and why are they useful?
  • How to record an ECG
  • Troubleshooting and challenges in obtaining a high quality ECG
  • Recognising normal sinus rhythm
  • Introduction to arrhythmias

Who is this accredited by?

The CPD Certification Service
The CPD Certification Service:

This course has been certified by the CPD Certification Service as conforming to continuing professional development principles.

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

  • Available now

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

  • Explain the heart’s normal electrical activity and the meaning of the term ‘sinus rhythm’
  • Describe an ECG and what it measures
  • Discuss the reasons for recording an ECG
  • Identify the steps involved in recording a standard 12 lead ECG, including electrode placement and the pre and post-procedure considerations
  • Identify problems in obtaining a good quality ECG and suggest solutions to these
  • Explain the relationship between the heart’s electrical activity and ECG waveforms
  • Summarise the parameters for normal sinus rhythm
  • Describe some key features of arrhythmias and their potential impact

Who is the course for?

This course is suitable for a range of existing healthcare providers, including qualified and student nurses, paramedics and support workers. It’s designed to give an introduction to ECG assessments and the process behind it. Anyone interested in ECG interpretation can benefit from this online course.

Who will you learn with?

I am an Associate Professor for Undergraduate Workforce Development and also a Registered Nurse with extensive experience of teaching cardiac care to Healthcare Providers from a range of backgrounds.

Who developed the course?

St George's, University of London

St George’s is the UK’s only university dedicated to medical and health sciences education, training and research.

Kingston and St George's Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education

The Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education is a joint enterprise of Kingston University and St George’s, University of London.

Endorsers and supporters

content provided by

St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

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Ways to learn

Choose the best way to learn for you!

Subscribe & save

$27.99

For the first two months. Automatically renews

Develop skills to further your career

  • Access to this course
  • Access to 1,000+ courses
  • Learn at your own pace
  • Discuss your learning in comments
  • Digital certificate when you're eligible

Cancel for free anytime

Buy this course

$109/one-off payment

Fulfill your current learning need

  • Access to this course
  • Learn at your own pace
  • Discuss your learning in comments
  • Printed and digital certificate when you’re eligible

Limited access

Free

Sample the course materials

  • Access expires 2 Apr 2024

Find out more about certificates, Unlimited or buying a course (Upgrades)

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  • Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
  • Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
  • Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

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  • Complete 90% of course steps and all of the assessments to earn your certificate

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