Electrocardiograms (ECGs) are often the first non-invasive tool physicians use to diagnose cardiac issues. In fact, more than 50 million ECGs are conducted around the world each year. And accurate interpretation is key to preventing diagnostic delays and patient recalls.
Until a few years ago, however, there were few all-in-one solutions for teaching EMT and nursing students how to accurately place and read ECG leads. So, we created an ECG Simulator that does both. This hands-on tool combines hardware, software and curriculum to teach students ECG lead placement and reading. Students also learn to recognize those rhythms on screen and on paper.
Since its debut, our ECG Simulator has earned national recognition for its innovative design and impact on health science classrooms. Keep reading, or watch the below video, to find out why.
Realistic feedback and assessment
As nursing educator Kasey Carlson demonstrates in this video, our ECG Simulator combines hardware, software and curriculum. It includes:
- ECG Simulator
- A tablet with software
- Electrode supply pack (3-lead, 4-lead, 5-lead and 12-lead electrode sets)
- “Basic ECG Rhythm” flashcard set
- 2-3 hours of online course content
“The great thing about the practice mode is that students get feedback on their actions,” notes Carlson. “And the great thing about assessment mode is that they can test their knowledge.”
“Game-changing, innovative design”
In March 2020, a panel of over 3,000 leading business executives selected our ECG Simulator for a silver Edison Award in Health & Wellness. Panelists noted its “game-changing, innovative design.”
Simulation helps health care students apply theory and gain experience in skills in procedures. In this case, the ECG simulator lets students practice palpating for the correct intercostal spaces in the rib cage, instead of looking at an image to determine correct lead placement.
A “cool tool” for teaching targeted health care skills
In April 2021, our ECG Simulator was named a finalist in the EdTech Digest Cool Tool Awards. Winners were selected from across the K-12, higher education, and skills and workforce sectors and judged based on criteria like pedagogical workability, efficacy and potential.
Specifically, our ECG Simulator earned recognition for helping teachers make an impact in today’s post-pandemic health science classroom. With it, students can get true-to-life practice placing ECG/EKG leads on the body through accurate rib palpation while learning how to properly assess heart rhythms.
Learn more
Looking for more resources for teaching ECG lead placement and reading?
Access our ECG Simulator curriculum for free
Our ECG Simulator includes curriculum for teaching a 2-hour unit on ECGs, ECG interpretation and common arrhythmia. You can even use it to help students prepare for Domains 2 and 3 of the Certified EKG Technician Exam.
We’ve made our curriculum available for everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to explore the lesson plans that accompany our ECG Simulator.
See our ECG Simulator in action
Watch the below video to see nursing educator Kasey Carlson use the ECG Simulator to conduct a 5-lead ECG:
Hi,
I would like a quote on the ECG Simulator curriculum and contact information for the Rep in my area.
Texas – Weslaco TX in the Rio Grande Valley area
Thank you for stopping by, Maria! We’d love to assist you. I’m going to pass your comment to our Account Services Team, who will connect you with your local Realityworks account manager. Someone will be in touch with you shortly! In the meantime, of course, you’re welcome to contact us directly via email (information@realityworks.com), by calling 1-800-830-1416 or by live chatting on our website. Thank you! 🙂