Becoming an endoscopy or gastrointestinal technician requires a combination of education, training, and certification.The work involved directly impacts patients’ lives and is valuable to the safety and security of healthcare services.
If a career in endoscopy tech intrigues you, here are the requirements and qualifications to become an endoscopy technician.
Educational Requirements
Employers require endoscopy technicians to have at least a high school diploma or GED. Some employers may require postsecondary education, such as a bachelor’s degree in a medicine-related field like health sciences or nursing. Enrolling in sterile processing courses can be sufficient educational training to become an endoscopy technician.
Certifications
Formerly known as NICHSPDP, the Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD)is an organization that offers certification for sterile processing professionals. This includes endoscopy technicians, who ensure that all instruments and equipment used in endoscopic procedures are properly cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized. Receiving certification from this organization can significantly strengthen an endoscopy technician’s employment opportunities.
Training
After obtaining an education, the next step is to gain experience by completing an on-the-job training program. These programs typically last several weeks or months and are designed to provide hands-on experience in the endoscopy field.
During this time, trainees work alongside experienced endoscopy technicians and learn the skills to assist physicians with endoscopic procedures. Most health-allied learning institutions, like Martinson College, partner with medical institutions to help with students’ required on-the-job training.
Continuous Learning
Continuous Learningis an essential pillar of endoscopy tech. Specialists must stay current with the latest technologies and techniques to improve and maintain the quality of endoscopic procedures. Many certifying bodies, such as theCBSPD, require endoscopy technicians to complete continuing education courses and take recertification every five years to maintain their status.
Becoming an endoscopy technician requires proper education, training, and certification. It can begin by enrolling in a sterile processing program. Then, gain experience through on-the-job training and obtain a certificate from the CBSPD. With hard work and dedication, you can become an endoscopy technician and positively impact patient care.
Learn more about everything you need to know about a career in endoscopy tech. Read this infographic by Martinson College, a leading healthcare educational institution specializing in sterile processing tech.
