Top 10 Critical Care Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a critical care technician in the job market as they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skills. Having certifications validates a critical care technician's ability to perform specific duties and tasks associated with their profession, which can give them an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs. Employers may prefer to hire individuals who have certification as it shows that they have taken the initiative to further their education and gain the necessary qualifications. Additionally, certifications can provide access to higher salaries and promotions due to the increased knowledge and expertise they bring.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Critical Care Technicians and explain how they can help to advance a critical care technician's career.

What are Critical Care Technician Certifications?

Critical Care Technician Certification is a program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to work in a critical care setting. This certification program consists of a series of classes, seminars and hands-on training that focuses on caring for critically ill patients. It also covers topics such as resuscitation, airway management, pharmacology, respiratory therapy and other related medical procedures.

By completing this certification program, individuals are able to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the critical care environment. This certification can help healthcare professionals advance their career in the field of critical care. It can also provide them with an opportunity to increase their earning potential through job promotions or higher wages. Additionally, becoming certified in this field can help healthcare providers gain credibility among their peers, employers and patients. Finally, it may also make them more attractive to potential employers by demonstrating a commitment to patient safety and quality care.

Pro Tip: To become a certified critical care technician, be sure to research the specific requirements for certification in your state and complete any necessary training courses or exams. Additionally, make sure to stay up-to-date on the most current standards and best practices in critical care medicine.

Related: What does a Critical Care Technician do?

Top 10 Critical Care Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Critical Care Technicians today.

1. Certified Critical Care Technician (CCCT)

Certified Critical Care Technician (CCCT) is a certification program that is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality care for critically ill patients. The CCCT certification is offered through the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN). It requires successful completion of an exam and a minimum of two years' experience in critical care nursing.

The CCCT certification program consists of two parts: a written examination and a clinical simulation assessment. To be eligible for the CCCT certification, candidates must have at least two years of full-time experience as a registered nurse in critical care or emergency nursing, hold current RN licensure in their state, and have completed an approved course in basic life support (BLS).

The written examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as patient assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and professional practice. The clinical simulation assessment includes scenarios that require candidates to demonstrate their ability to assess patient needs, develop plans of care, implement interventions, evaluate outcomes, and document results.

The cost for the CCCT certification exam is $395 for AACN members and $495 for non-members. The fee covers both the written examination and the clinical simulation assessment. Candidates can register online or by mail using the application form provided on the AACN website. Once registered, candidates will receive information about test dates and locations.

Candidates who pass both components of the exam will receive their CCCT certificate within four weeks after completing all requirements. The certificate is valid for three years from the date it was issued; after three years it must be renewed by taking an updated version of the exam.

2. Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

A Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) is a healthcare professional who is trained to provide pre-hospital care for medical emergencies. EMTs are certified by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). They are responsible for assessing patients, providing basic life support, and transporting them to a hospital or other healthcare facility.

It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to become an EMT depending on the program you choose. Most programs involve classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical experience. To get certified as an EMT, you must pass both a written and practical exam administered by the NREMT.

The cost of becoming an EMT can vary greatly depending on the program you choose. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $500-$2,000. You may also need to purchase additional materials such as textbooks and uniforms. Additionally, there is usually a fee associated with taking the NREMT certification exam which is typically around $70-$100.

3. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)

Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) is a set of clinical interventions for the urgent treatment of cardiac arrest and other life-threatening medical emergencies. It is an advanced form of basic life support (BLS). ACLS requires knowledge and skills beyond those required for BLS, including recognition and treatment of arrhythmias, airway management, and effective team interaction.

ACLS typically takes two days to complete. The course includes lectures, skill practice, simulated clinical scenarios, and a written exam. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but can range from $200 - $400.

In order to obtain ACLS certification, you must take an approved ACLS course from an accredited provider. You can find these providers online or through your local American Heart Association office. After completing the course, you will receive a certification card that is valid for two years.

4. Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) is a certification program developed by the American Heart Association (AHA) to provide healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage critically ill infants and children. It is designed for physicians, nurses, paramedics, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare providers who may be involved in the resuscitation of a child.

The PALS course typically takes two days to complete. The course consists of lectures, skill stations, and simulated cases that teach participants how to recognize and treat cardiac arrest in infants and children. Participants must also pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

To get PALS certified, you must first find an AHA-approved instructor who offers the PALS course in your area. You can search for instructors online or contact your local AHA office for more information. Once you have found an instructor, you will need to register for the class and pay any associated fees.

The cost of getting PALS certified varies depending on where you take the course and which materials are included in your fee. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 per person for a two-day course.

5. Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic Life Support (BLS) is a set of life-saving techniques that can be used to help someone who has stopped breathing or is in cardiac arrest. BLS includes chest compressions, rescue breaths, and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). BLS is typically taught as part of a certification course and can take anywhere from 4-8 hours to complete.

To get certified in BLS, you must take a course from an accredited provider such as the American Heart Association or the Red Cross. The cost of the course varies depending on where you take it, but generally ranges from $50-$100. After completing the course, you will receive a certification card that is valid for 2 years.

BLS is an important skill to have because it can save lives in emergency situations. It is recommended that everyone learn BLS so they are prepared to help in case of an emergency.

6. Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)

The Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC) is an intensive two-day course designed to provide nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary to care for trauma patients. The TNCC is offered by the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) and is recognized as a national standard of excellence in trauma nursing practice.

The TNCC consists of eight hours of lecture, eight hours of skills labs, and four hours of testing. During the lecture portion, nurses learn about the physiology and pathophysiology of trauma, initial assessment and management, airway management, fluid resuscitation, shock management, wound care, and other topics related to trauma nursing. The skills lab portion includes hands-on practice with simulated scenarios and critical thinking exercises.

To receive certification in TNCC, nurses must complete both the lecture and skills lab portions of the course as well as pass a written exam at the end. Upon successful completion of all requirements, nurses are awarded a certificate from ENA that is valid for four years.

TNCC courses are offered throughout the United States in both online and classroom formats. Online courses typically require 16 hours to complete while classroom courses usually take two days. The cost for TNCC varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 per participant.

7. Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)

The Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) is a program developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Heart Association to teach healthcare providers how to effectively resuscitate newborns. The NRP teaches healthcare providers how to recognize and manage life-threatening conditions that can occur in newborns, such as respiratory distress syndrome, meconium aspiration, and hypothermia. It also provides guidelines for providing effective ventilation and oxygenation, chest compressions, medications, and other interventions.

The NRP course is typically offered over two days in a classroom setting or online. The course includes an instructor-led lecture, hands-on practice with mannequins, and a written test. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive an NRP provider card valid for two years.

The cost of the NRP course varies depending on the provider offering it; however, most courses range from $200-$400 per person.

8. Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT)

A Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) is a specialized healthcare professional who is trained to operate and maintain dialysis equipment, as well as provide patient care and education. The CCHT certification is administered by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) and is recognized nationally as a credential for those working in the hemodialysis field.

To become certified, an individual must have at least one year of full-time experience in providing direct patient care related to hemodialysis or completion of an approved educational program. They must also pass the NNCC's CCHT exam, which covers topics such as dialysis principles and practices, patient assessment, vascular access management, troubleshooting and problem solving with dialysis equipment, infection control procedures, and more.

The cost for the CCHT exam varies depending on when it is taken. It typically costs $200 for early registration (up to 45 days prior to the test date), $225 for regular registration (45-15 days prior to the test date), and $250 for late registration (14 days or fewer prior to the test date). Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

Once an individual has passed the CCHT exam they will receive their certification within 6-8 weeks from the date of passing. The certification is valid for 5 years from that date before needing to be renewed.

9. Certified Dialysis Technician (CDT)

A Certified Dialysis Technician (CDT) is a healthcare professional who has been trained and certified to provide dialysis treatments for patients with kidney failure. The CDT works closely with the patient’s physician and other members of the healthcare team to ensure that the patient receives safe, effective, and comfortable dialysis treatments.

To become a CDT, an individual must complete an accredited training program and pass a certification exam administered by either the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing & Technology (BONENT) or the National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO). Training programs generally take between 6-12 months to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

The cost of becoming a CDT varies depending on the type of program chosen. Online programs typically cost less than traditional classroom-based programs. Additionally, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement or other financial assistance to help cover the cost of training.

Once an individual has completed their training program and passed their certification exam, they will receive their official CDT certification from either BONENT or NNCO. This certification must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid.

10. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

A Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a professional healthcare worker who specializes in helping surgeons and other medical personnel during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, setting up equipment, passing instruments to surgeons and assisting with patient positioning during surgery.

In order to become certified as a CST, individuals must complete an accredited surgical technology program, pass the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) exam, and meet any additional requirements set forth by their state or employer. The length of the program varies depending on the institution offering it, but typically takes anywhere from 9-24 months to complete.

The cost of becoming certified as a CST will vary depending on the institution offering the program. Tuition fees may range from $2,000-$20,000 or more depending on whether you attend a public or private school. Additionally, there is a fee associated with taking the NBSTSA exam which is currently $250.

Overall, becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist requires dedication and commitment to learning all aspects of surgical technology in order to be successful in this field.

Do You Really Need a Critical Care Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and career aspirations. If you are looking to become a critical care technician, then a certificate is essential. A critical care technician certificate program provides foundational knowledge and training in the necessary skills needed to perform the job safely and effectively. It will also provide you with the opportunity to specialize in specific areas of critical care, allowing you to better serve patients in need of specialized attention.

Having a certificate may also help you stand out from other applicants when competing for jobs, as employers may prefer those with formal credentials over those without them. Additionally, some states require certification for certain healthcare positions, so having a certificate may be necessary before being able to practice in certain areas.

Overall, pursuing a certificate can be beneficial if it aligns with your career goals. It may open up doors for better job opportunities and give you an edge over other applicants. However, if you do not wish to become a critical care technician or if there are no certification requirements in your state, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue one at this time.

Related: Critical Care Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Critical Care Technician Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Critical Care Technician?

Answer: To become a Critical Care Technician, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited critical care technician program, and obtain certification from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Critical Care Technician?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified depends on the individual's prior experience and education. Generally, it takes between 6 months and 1 year to obtain certification.

3. What type of job can I get with a Critical Care Technician certification?

Answer: A critical care technician is typically employed in an intensive care unit or other specialty areas of the hospital such as the emergency room or operating room. They may also be employed in outpatient settings such as dialysis centers and home health agencies.

4. What is the salary for a Certified Critical Care Technician?

Answer: According to PayScale, the average salary for a Certified Critical Care Technician is $27,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on experience, geographic location and other factors.

5. Are there continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, continuing education is required every two years in order to maintain your certification. You must complete at least 45 contact hours of continuing education activities related to critical care nursing and submit proof of completion to AACN before your expiration date.