An endoscopy technician, also known as gastroenterology (GI) tech, works alongside physicians to examine patients’ digestive tracts and diagnose issues using a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached. This camera is what they call an endoscope.
This non-surgical procedure allows doctors to see inside a patient’s body, which is safer and more efficient than exploratory surgery. The test can detect several diseases and conditions, including cancers, lesions, and other abnormalities.
What are the Skills Needed to Become an Endoscopy Technician?
The skills needed to be an endoscopy technician include medical knowledge and attention to detail. They also need a high level of physical stamina to help them work long hours and transport patients. Other important skills for this role are communication and time management, which are crucial to working in a hospital setting.
● Education
A high school diploma or GED certificate is typically required for employment as an endoscopy technician. Many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s degree in medical technology or a related field.
● Training & Experience
Most endoscopy technicians receive on-the-job training from experienced technicians. In addition, some technicians may complete a short certificate program like sterile processing tech training to gain the essential skills they need for the job.
● Certification
Depending on the employer, an endoscopy tech may be eligible for various certifications and professional designations. These credentials can make you more marketable to a potential employer and improve your chances of finding a job.
Some certifications are offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA).
The Process to Get Certification for Endoscope Reprocessor
A few colleges offer a six-week endoscope reprocessing course to help students learn the proper techniques for sterilizing the equipment used during endoscopic procedures.
The course also prepares graduates for the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution or CBSPD (formerly known as the National Institute for the Certification of Healthcare Sterile Processing and Distribution Personnel or NICHSPDP ) endoscope reprocessor exam. Aspiring endoscopy technicians should take this test to demonstrate their proficiency in this vital work area.
Endoscopy technicians work in hospitals, doctor’s offices, and specialty clinics. Here, they can assist physicians and nurses during endoscopic procedures by setting up rooms and equipment, helping during the test, sterilizing equipment after they are finished, and maintaining an inventory of supplies.
These duties require excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks, which is essential in a busy environment like a hospital where hundreds of procedures are performed each month.
A well-organized and comprehensive priority system helps you stay on top of your responsibilities as an endoscopy technician and ensures a smooth workflow for the entire department.
Know More About Endoscopy Technician with Martinson College
Being an endoscopy technician may be taxing, but there is no denying that this profession is rewarding, especially when you desire to help people.
Martinson College was built to raise the standard of healthcare by encouraging facilities to protect the public and their staff by hiring only trained individuals. We aim to become a leader in providing skilled and highly proficient technicians through proper education, skills training, and certifications.
If you are interested to learn more about being an endoscopy technician, you can read this article.
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