Endoscopy technicians, sometimes known as gastrointestinal technicians, assist doctors and nurses in diagnosing and treating patients with gastrointestinal disorders using an endoscope. The endoscope is a short, flexible tube with a connected light and camera that allows physicians to view a patient’s digestive system.
Technicians in endoscopy prepare rooms and equipment for endoscopic operations and clean and sanitize afterward. It is essential to have a keen eye for detail to guarantee that nothing is overlooked. Endoscopy technicians work at hospitals, doctor’s offices, specialized clinics, and other medical institutions that conduct endoscopic procedures.
Typically, endoscopy technicians spend many hours on their feet cleaning equipment, preparing rooms, collecting samples, and aiding patients. Additionally, they must possess the physical strength to transfer patients. Also, an endoscopic technician will likely be the initial patient interaction in the room. Helping patients who are possibly uneasy before treatments and confused due to anesthesia requires patience and empathy.
If you plan to be an endoscopy technician and want to boost your employment possibilities, try earning an associate degree, including courses in endoscopy and sterile processing tech training. Some institutions may demand that you have an endoscopic certificate of central sterile processing technician program from an allied health care training program.
Also, many prospective endoscopy technicians enroll in on-the-job training programs provided by healthcare organizations. These programs guarantee that endoscopic technicians possess the requisite abilities and knowledge for their positions.
Moreover, experience in previous related occupations might offer you a competitive advantage when you apply for employment vacancies. Some positions for endoscopic technicians need experience as a qualified nursing assistant, medical assistant, or surgical technician. In the end, whatever hands-on experience you can get in a medical setting will position you as a great contender for the role of endoscopy technician.
Professional qualification is not necessary to qualify for an endoscopic technician job. However, the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates (SGNA), the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management (IAHCSSM), and the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) provide certificates on a voluntary basis.
Read the infographic below from Martinson College to learn about endoscopy technicians and everything you need to know.
