NCV / EMG New York, NY Training Courses & Workshops

NCV / EMG Training Courses for Physicians, Nurses, Dentists and other healthcare professionals

NCV technicians assist neurologists in performing nerve condition studies. A nerve condition study is also known as a nerve conduction velocity test and examines how quickly electrical signals move through a nerve. Although neurologists perform NCV tests, NCV technicians can perform some parts of the tests themselves. NCV technicians must complete coursework, undergo training and obtain certification.

NCV Test Preparation

NCV technicians help patients prepare for nerve study tests by asking them to remove necessary clothing, glasses, jewelry, hair accessories and hearing aids before tests begin. They give patients a gown to wear if clothing removal is necessary. Technicians ensure electrical equipment is clean and ready for use. They also sanitize the surface of electrode patches and make sure paste adhesives are available. Technicians instruct patients to sit or lie down as needed for the tests, according to the neurologists' directives.

Other Technician Duties

Technicians help conduct NCV tests by attaching electrodes to patients' skin using a specially designed paste to hold them in place. They have learned how far to place the stimulating electrode from the recording electrode, but a neurologist is present to ensure the electrodes are properly located. A neurologist always determines and locates the nerves to be tested. The neurologist instructs the technician on how frequently to administer the short, mild shocks, or she performs them herself. A monitor, called an oscilloscope, displays the results. The neurologist evaluates the results and determines whether any nerves are damaged. NCV technicians don't design treatment plans, perform surgeries on nerves or administer medications.

Education and Training

An NCV technician must complete education and training requirements in both classroom and laboratory settings to become certified to conduct NCV tests. Part of the training includes hands-on practice under the direction and supervision of medical professionals. A technician must also pass state testing requirements to ensure he's knowledgeable and proficient in the field and is well-equipped for real-life nerve studies. Once the technician is certified, he can include his credentials next to his name. For example, he might write "Joe Johnson, NCT-C" on medical documents and include his registration number after his name and title.

Beneficial Skills

Nerve study technicians must have strong people skills because they interact with medical professionals and patients on a daily basis. Attention to detail is a strong plus because technicians must carefully place electrodes in the proper locations or they won't get sufficient test results. They must also prepare, clean and maintain equipment so it functions properly. Because technicians work under the direct supervision of neurologists, they must be teachable and comply with requests and advisement from their superiors. NCV technicians often complete continuing education courses to stay up to date on the latest technological advancements in the field.

About the Author

As curriculum developer and educator, Kristine Tucker has enjoyed the plethora of English assignments she's read (and graded!) over the years. Her experiences as vice-president of an energy consulting firm have given her the opportunity to explore business writing and HR. Tucker has a BA and holds Ohio teaching credentials.

bibliography-iconicon for annotation tool Cite this Article Choose Citation Style MLA APA Chicago (B)

Tucker, Kristine. "What Is an NCV Technician?" Work - Chron.com, http://work.chron.com/ncv-technician-28986.html. Accessed 06 July 2019.

Tucker, Kristine. (n.d.). What Is an NCV Technician? Work - Chron.com. Retrieved from http://work.chron.com/ncv-technician-28986.html

Tucker, Kristine. "What Is an NCV Technician?" accessed July 06, 2019. http://work.chron.com/ncv-technician-28986.html