The Endoscopy Technician assists physicians or other providers with procedures performed in the gastroenterology endoscopy setting. Patient populations range from adolescents to older adults and an understanding of the age-specific needs of these patients is required. Outpatients who present with a wide range of illnesses and complaints are cared for in this endoscopy setting. Some duties may be performed independently with intermittent supervision by the Registered Nurse.
Job Responsibilities
Participate in educating the patient about the procedure being performed including preparation, rationale, and expectations and in supporting the patient during the procedure offering coaching and relaxation techniques.
Assist RN with transport of sedated patients to the recovery area and may escort patients to specific locations for discharge.
Communicate accurate patient observations, interventions, and outcomes of care to the Registered Nurse and assist the Registered Nurse with patient monitoring (vs. observation) during and following procedures, when appropriate.
Inspect all equipment and accessories for defects prior to use to ensure the highest level of infection prevention and inform the RN of the equipment and accessories used during procedures including quantity, size, and equipment settings to be documented in the medical record. Assist with the application of monitoring equipment and the setting of parameters and alarms (NIBP, ECG, and pulse oximetry).
Initiate start-up of endoscopy network and photo documentation procedures.
Participate in specimen collection and handling and correctly label specimens in accordance with hospital policy.
Perform procedures, within scope of practice, in Endoscopy setting, Operating room or at patient bedside including ICU, ED, or Radiology.
Assist with pulmonary procedures such as bronchoscopy, insertion of indwelling pleural catheters and other procedures as indicated.
Assist with therapeutic interventions such as balloon dilations, polypectomy, sphincterotomy, stent placement, gastrostomy tube placement and other procedures as indicated.
Properly pre-clean/disinfect endoscopic equipment and accessories prior to sterile processing.
Stock procedure rooms. Initiate the reorder of supplies as needed.
Perform telephone reminder calls for procedures and provides limited procedure information under RN supervision.
Provide emergency care to patients when necessary, using basic life support protocols (CPR certified) until Registered Nurse and/or physician staff arrives.
Other duties as assigned.
Education Requirements
Minimum: High School diploma or equivalent
Preferred: Endoscopy Technician Certification via completion of the SGNA Associates Program and/or Formal Training or Experience in Medical Specialty (i.e. LPN, MA, certified nursing assistant (CNA)
Experience Requirements
Minimum: One (1) year experience in a clinical setting
Preferred: One-year experience assisting in GI/Pulmonary medical procedures
License/Certification Requirements
Minimum:
BLS (American Heart Association)
Obtain Endoscopy Technician Certification within three (3) monhts of hire to the position
Preferred: Endoscopy Technician certification at hire