The ECG Interpretation Training is a 1-day course that equips healthcare staff with important skills for reading and interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs). This course covers basic concepts about how the heart’s electrical system works, how to place ECG leads correctly, and how to spot both normal and abnormal ECG patterns.
The Basic ECG Interpretation Awareness Training equips healthcare staff with basic knowledge of ECGs and their use in patient care.
In this course, you will learn how to place electrodes correctly, identify the parts of an ECG, and recognise normal and abnormal heart rhythms.
You will also learn how to fix common problems with ECG readings and understand what the results mean.
This training is ideal for anyone wanting to learn basic ECG skills.
On completing the 4-6 hours ECG Awareness course, you will earn a level 3 certificate.
Understand the Basics of ECG Interpretation: • Explain the purpose of an ECG and its role in diagnosing cardiac conditions. • Identify the components of a standard 12-lead ECG.
Apply Knowledge of Electrode Placement: • Demonstrate correct placement of electrodes for a 12-lead ECG, ensuring accurate results. • Recognise the significance of limb leads and chest leads in producing an ECG tracing.
Interpret ECG Components: • Define and identify P-waves, QRS complexes, T-waves, and their clinical relevance. • Explain the significance of intervals such as PR intervals, QRS duration, and QT intervals
Recognise Normal and Abnormal ECG Findings: • Differentiate between normal sinus rhythm and common abnormalities (e.g., atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia). • Understand the clinical significance of abnormalities such as ST-segment elevation or depression and T-wave changes.
Troubleshoot Artefacts and Technical Issues: • Identify common artefacts (e.g., muscle tremor, wandering baseline) and explain how to prevent or correct them. • Ensure optimal ECG readings by maintaining proper technique and minimising interference.
Apply Clinical Reasoning to ECG Interpretation: • Interpret sample ECG tracings and correlate findings with potential clinical scenarios. • Recognise the need for escalation based on ECG abnormalities.
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Where do you deliver this electrocardiograph (ecg) monitoring and interpretation training?
We can deliver this training at your premises, as long as it's within the UK.
We also have our own venues in Stoke on Trent, London, Swindon, Epsom & York if you need access to a training room (additional charges will apply).
Also, we can deliver this training virtually using Zoom. However, sessions delivered via Zoom will be theory only and will not include any practical’s.
How long will the training last?
This training will last 4-6 hours. We give a range of time to account for variable factors such as; underlying knowledge and competence of delegates, class interaction and engagement and reduced delegate numbers. If a course finishes earlier than the allotted time, it will be due to one of these reasons. However, our trainer will ensure that all learning outcomes have been met.
Will attending this training make me competent?
In short, no.
No classroom-based training course can give you full competency - be very wary of anyone claiming they can.
Our classroom-based assessments are designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and workplace competency.
We will be sure to provide you with the relevant workbooks and competency proformas to be observed and signed off within the workplace according to your local policy.
Who will conduct the ECG Reading and Interpretation training?
One of our expert tutors. These all have an abundance of first hand care experience and knowledge - so you'll be in great hands!
We will let you know who is doing the training in advance. You can check out their skills and experience by finding them on our meet the team page.
What equipment will you use for training?
We have a variety of different training equipment and tools available. The training will be relevant and transferable.
However, if you have a specific requirement for a particular type of equipment, please make this clear during the booking process, and the team will ensure this is provided.
Alternatively, we can use your own equipment for training.
ECG Interpretation Course
ECG Course is a complete course designed to introduce healthcare staff to the basics of reading an electrocardiogram (ECG). The course starts with simple ECG concepts and gradually moves on to more complex rhythms and problems, focusing on the importance of recognising both normal and abnormal patterns.
Over 4-6 hours, either virtually or face-to-face, participants will learn about the heart’s structure, ECG equipment, and electrode placements, as well as how to interpret waveforms and common heart problems like arrhythmias.
The training covers key topics such as calculating heart rate, understanding heart axis, identifying different waves and intervals, and recognising what each part of the ECG means.
You will also learn a step-by-step method for interpreting ECGs, including both rhythm strips and 12-lead ECGs. You’ll be ready to use ECG findings to make better decisions for patient care and improve patient outcomes.
At the end of the course, learners will receive a nationally recognised certificate and gain practical skills in ECG interpretation that can be used in real-world clinical settings. This course is a strong foundation for anyone wanting to improve their ability to assess cardiac health and improve patient care.
Learn what an ECG is and how it helps diagnose heart problems.
Identify the parts of a 12-lead ECG.
2. Apply Knowledge of Electrode Placement
Show how to place electrodes correctly for a 12-lead ECG to get accurate results.
Understand the importance of limb leads and chest leads in the ECG.
3. Interpret ECG Component
Recognise P-waves, QRS complexes, T-waves, and their importance.
Understand what PR intervals, QRS duration, and QT intervals mean.
4. Recognise Normal and Abnormal ECG Findings
Tell the difference between normal sinus rhythm and common heart problems like atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
Understand what problems like ST-segment changes or T-wave changes mean.
5. Troubleshoot Artefacts and Technical Issues
Spot common problems in an ECG (like muscle tremors or a wandering baseline) and know how to fix them.
Ensure clear ECG readings by using the correct technique and avoiding interference.
6. Apply Clinical Reasoning to ECG Interpretation
Read sample ECG tracings and link them to possible health issues.
Know when to ask for help based on ECG problems.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successfully completing this ECG Interpretation Awareness Course, you will be able to:
Understand what ECG is and why it’s important for checking heart health.
Know how to keep things clean when doing ECG tests to avoid spreading germs.
Learn why it’s important to write down all the information about the ECG test and what it shows.
Know how to check for possible problems before doing an ECG test to keep patients safe.
Understand when doctors ask for ECG tests and why they’re needed.
Know when ECG tests might not be safe or need to be done differently for some patients.
Learn about the rules for asking patients if it’s okay to do an ECG test.
Practice how to talk to patients about ECG tests in a way they can understand.
Do a hands-on practice in class to learn how to do ECG tests the right way.
Who Should Take This Training:
The individual who should attend the Basic ECG Interpretation Awareness Training includes:
Nurses
Carers
Healthcare Assistants
Doctors
Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
Cardiac Care Teams.
These healthcare staff work closely with patients and will find it helpful to learn how to read ECGs, which will improve their skills and help them take better care of patients.
Course Benefits:
This full-day ECG Interpretation course provides many valuable benefits to help you improve your skills and knowledge in ECG interpretation.
Learn how to read and understand ECGs, from basic to more complex rhythms.
Know how to spot normal and abnormal heart patterns.
Improve your ability to identify heart problems like arrhythmias.
Get a nationally recognised certificate when you finish the course.
Use your ECG skills to provide better care for patients.
Choose between virtual or face-to-face training options.
Feel more confident in reading ECGs and making decisions in healthcare.
Build a strong base for more advanced training in heart health.
By the end of the course, you will have the skills to confidently interpret ECGs and make a real difference in patient care.
We receive thousands of reviews each year on our courses, and over the years, our training has been rated ‘Excellent’ by participants, whether they took part online, onsite, face-to-face, or virtual.
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“Thank you for the easy to book course. Courtney was very helpful and answered all my questions. All the forms and information was sent quickly and she was always at the end of the phone should I need any help.” – Toni
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“It was just what I expected. Very educative. The trainer did a very good job” – Matilda
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“The whole process was made really easy. From booking to payment. The training itself was very informative and valuable.” – Kim P.
Career Opportunities
The Basic Electrocardiogram Interpretation Training can open up many job opportunities in healthcare. After completing this course, you can work in places like hospitals, clinics, or emergency care.
Some possible jobs include:
Nurse or Nurse Assistant with skills to read and understand ECGs.
Healthcare Assistant or Technician, helping with ECG tests and patient care.
Paramedic or EMT, using ECGs to help patients in emergencies.
Cardiology Support Staff, helping doctors with ECG tasks in heart care.
Medical Assistant in clinics or labs, supporting ECG procedures.
This 1-day ECG course gives you the skills needed to work in any job that uses ECGs and can help you grow in your healthcare career.
Training FAQs
1. What is ECG Interpretation Training?
ECG Interpretation Training is a course that teaches healthcare workers how to read and understand electrocardiograms (ECGs), which show the heart’s electrical activity.
2. Who should take ECG Interpretation Training?
This training is for junior doctors, nurses, paramedics, cardiographers, and other healthcare workers who work in emergency, intensive care, or urgent care.
3. How long does the ECG Interpretation course last?
Our ECG Interpretation course is one full day of training, giving you a deep understanding of how to interpret ECGs.
4. What topics are covered in ECG Interpretation Training?
The course covers the basics of heart anatomy and function, normal ECG patterns, different heart problems, heart attacks, and other heart conditions.
5. Are there online options for ECG Interpretation Training?
Yes, we offer virtual (online) ECG interpretation courses, which you can take from anywhere with an internet connection. Our course is an in-person, full-day session.
6. Do I need to know anything about ECGs before taking the course?
It helps if you know a little, but it’s not necessary. You can start with our Level 2 ECG Awareness Course which gives you the basic knowledge and skills.
7. Is there an exam or certificate after completing the training?
There is a short test at the end of the training to know the level of knowledge gained.
8. How can ECG Interpretation Training help my clinical practice?
This training will help you recognise normal and abnormal ECG patterns, improve your diagnostic skills, and lead to better patient care in emergency and urgent medical situations.
How often do I need to renew my ECG Interpretation certification?
You would need to renew this course every 1-2 years to keep up with changes in the healthcare industry.
Caring for Care was fantastic from the start of the booking process through to the face-to-face training session.
The training session was very informative. I would highly recommend this provider and will definitely be using them again in the future - Gemms N. [Reviews.io]
