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Military Career: Cardiopulmonary and EEG Technicians

 

Overview

Military health care includes medical treatment for heart, lung, and brain disorders. Physicians need sophisticated tests to help diagnose and treat these problems. Cardiopulmonary and EEG (electroencephalograph) technicians administer a variety of diagnostic tests of the heart, lungs, blood, and brain using complex electronic testing equipment.

What They Do

Cardiopulmonary and EEG technicians in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

  • Take patients¿ blood pressure readings
  • Attach electrodes or other test equipment to patients¿ bodies
  • Help physicians revive heart attack victims
  • Adjust settings and operate test equipment
  • Monitor graphs and screens during tests
  • Talk to physicians to learn what tests or treatments are needed
  • Keep records of test results and discuss them with medical staff
  • Operate electrocardiographs and other test equipment

Branches of the Military

Army
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard

Helpful Attributes

Helpful school subjects include algebra, chemistry, biology, or related courses. Helpful attributes include:

  • Ability to follow strict standards and procedures
  • Ability to keep accurate records
  • Interest in electronic equipment
  • Interest in learning how the heart, lungs, and blood work together

Training Provided

Job training consists of 26 to 30 weeks of classroom instruction. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. Course content typically includes:

  • Diagnostic procedures
  • Operation and maintenance of diagnostic equipment
  • Preparation of patients for testing
  • Methods of resuscitation

Work Environment

Cardiopulmonary and EEG technicians usually work in hospitals and clinics. In combat situations, they may work in mobile field hospitals.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian cardiopulmonary and EEG technicians work in hospitals, clinics, and physicians ¿ offices. Their duties are similar to those performed in the military. They may specialize in either cardiovascular (heart), pulmonary (lungs), or electroencephalographic (brain) testing.

Below is a list of similar civilian occupations:

Cardiovascular Technologists
Respiratory Therapists

Opportunities

The services have about 6,000 cardiopulmonary and EEG technicians. Each year, they need new technicians due to changes in personnel and the demands of the field. After job training, new technicians are assigned to hospitals and clinics, where they work under the supervision of physicians and senior technicians. With experience, they may supervise others and assist in managing clinics.


Source: U.S. Department of Defense, Washington D.C.