SCST Award in Practical Electrocardiography

The Society makes this award to candidates who can demonstrate the ability to safely and accurately record a 12-lead resting electrocardiogram (ECG) under examination conditions. This is designed as an entry-level qualification for any practitioner wanting to demonstrate the skills needed to perform ECGs in a clinical environment. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate their ability through a practical examination. Supplemental questions will be used to check underpinning knowledge on ECG quality.

Exam dates:

• Sat 19th October 2024, Plymouth

BOOK YOUR PLACE

 

Suitable for all Healthcare Professionals who perform 12 lead resting ECGs

• Cardiographers, Snr Cardiographers, Associate Practitioners,Physiologists in Cardiology
• Healthcare Assistants, Nurses, Primary Care staff, GP Practice staff
• Emergency Care Assistants, Emergency Medical Technicans, Paramedics
• Medical doctors, Advanced Clinical Practitioners
• Respiratory Physiologists
• Medical Physics Physiologists

Cost: £150

 

Exam assessment:

1. Correct application and positioning of limb and chest electrodes, in accordance with the Society for Cardiological Science and Technology guidelines on a real patient.
2. Describe correct electrode positions verbally.
3. 5 x supplementary oral questions will be used to check underpinning knowledge on producing a good quality ECG recording, identification and elimination of technical error and artefact.

Candidates will be expected to demonstrate the following outcomes in a practical examination.

• Correct application and positioning of limb and chest electrodes, in accordance with the Society for Cardiological Science and Technology guidelines (as per guidelines) on a real patient’s body
• Check that the equipment is safe to use and know how to report faults
• Confirm the patient identity, explain the test using appropriate language and obtain verbal consent
• Correctly attach recording wires to electrodes and obtain an accurate, artefact-free recording
• Recognise common recording errors and assess quality of the ECG
• Differentiate between common sources of artefact and take appropriate action to improve the recording quality
• Explain how to check calibration and standard recording settings
• Outline situations when recording settings may be altered
• Recognise the limits of operational responsibility and when to seek assistance the limits of operational responsibility and when to seek assistance
• Supplemental oral questions will be used to check underpinning knowledge on producing a good quality ECG recording, identification of technical error and artefact.

Candidates should ensure that their preparation for the examination considers all points in the following syllabus and SCST guidelines.

Syllabus

(1) ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOPHYSIOLOGY:

• Anatomy of the thorax including the rib cage, sternum, manubrium, clavicle, axilla
• The main indications for recording an electrocardiogram.

(2) PRACTICAL ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHY:
Standard recording settings and how to alter basic controls

• Paper speed
• Gain
• Filters
• Lead selected
• Manual/automatic operation

 

Care of the equipment

• Care of recording paper
• Battery maintenance
• Care of leads and cables

Electrodes

• Application of and connection to electrodes
• Care of electrodes
• Electrode positions
• Significance of right leg (neutral) electrode

Preparation of the patient

• Explanation of the procedure at a level appropriate to the patient and obtaining oral consent
• Positioning of the patient
• Encouraging the patient to relax
• Maintaining the privacy and dignity of the patient at all times.

Practical electrocardiography

• Choice of appropriate leads for a particular patient category
• Setting of controls as appropriate for the specific recording
• Preparation of electrode sites to give optimum electrode contact and to minimise artefact
• Correct application and positioning of limb and chest electrodes, in accordance with the Society for Cardiological Science and Technology guidelines.
• Recording of a resting electrocardiogram from patients of all ages using both manual and automatic mode
• Recording of the resting electrocardiogram from a patient who:
• Is unconscious,
• Has language or communication difficulty,
• Is infectious or is in isolation,
• Has a physical disability (including amputation)
• Evaluation of the recording, re-recording as appropriate
• Recognition and elimination or reduction of artefacts due to:
• Muscle tension
• Muscle tremor
• Alternating current interference
• Limb movement
• Broken lead
• Sweat
• Respiratory chest movement
• Right and left arm connection transposal
• Labelling of completed recordings as appropriate
• Cleaning, preparation and storage of equipment ready for subsequent recordings, including correct sterilisation and disposal procedures

Guidelines
Correct application and positioning of limb and chest electrodes, in accordance with the Society for Cardiological Science and Technology guidelines.

SCST_ECG_Recording_Guidelines_2017am.pdf

Exam Cost
The cost of the exam is £150 which includes free parking in the University car park adjacent to the exam building

Please note this exam will be a face-to-face exam only.

Important payment information – FULL PAYMENT IS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. We are unable to issue invoices to employers. Please see ticket information for further details.

Refund Policy – please note that refunds cannot be given for cancellations made within 14 days of the exam start date. Cancellations made 14 days or more before the start date will incur a cancellation charge of £100. If you wish to cancel a booking please contact media@scst.org.uk directly.

FAQs

How easy is it to travel to the University venue?

The University of Plymouth is situated in the city centre with good access links by car, bus and train. Nearby parking is available opposite the university or at Drakes Circus.

How long does the exam take?

Approx 1 hour

What time is the exam?

Exams are booked in time slots so you can choose your preferred time.

What time should I arrive on the day of my exam?

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your exam time slot. (please note: if you arrive late you will lose your exam time slot)

Do I need to bring any ID?

Yes, identification is required, please bring photographic ID with you for exam registration and verification

Do I need any prior ECG knowledge?

Prior knowledge and experience of performing 12 leads ECGs is essential

Will I be expected to interpret the ECG?

No, you will not be expected to interpret the ECG however you should assess the ECG to ensure it is accurate, of good quality and artefact free. You will be expected to identify artefact and technical errors and how to rectify them.

Will I receive a certificate?

Yes, a SCST accredited certificate of competency will be awarded to successful candidates

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Email; media@scst.org.uk with any queries.