What does a Critical Care Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A critical care technician is a medical professional who provides care and support to patients in intensive care units. They monitor patients' vital signs, administer medications, and provide other life-sustaining treatments. Critical care technicians work closely with nurses and doctors to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Critical Care Technician job duties include:
- Assists with patient care activities as directed by the registered nurse
- Takes and records vital signs
- Monitors patient’s cardiac monitor and reports changes to the registered nurse
- Assists with insertion of intravenous catheters and blood draws
- Administers oxygen therapy and other treatments as ordered
- Performs EKGs and other diagnostic tests as ordered
- Transports patients to other units as needed
- Maintains equipment and supplies
- Keeps accurate records of patient care activities
Critical Care Technician Job Requirements
Critical care technicians typically have an associate's degree in health science or a related field. Some employers may require certification, and experience in a healthcare setting is also helpful. Critical care technicians must be able to work well under pressure, as they often provide care to patients who are critically ill or injured. They must be able to follow instructions from nurses and doctors and pay close attention to detail.
Critical Care Technician Skills
- Patient care
- Vital signs
- ECG
- Injections
- Phlebotomy
- IV starts
- Intubation
- Ventilator management
- Arterial lines
- Central lines
- Chest tubes
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How to become a Critical Care Technician
A critical care technician (CCT) is a type of medical professional who provides care and support to patients in intensive care units (ICUs). CCTs are responsible for monitoring patients’ vital signs, administering medications and treatments, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
Becoming a CCT requires completing an accredited educational program. Many community colleges offer programs that lead to an Associate’s degree in Critical Care Technology. Some hospitals also offer certificate programs for those who already have a degree in another health-related field.
After completing an educational program, CCTs must pass a national certification exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care. Once certified, CCTs must maintain their credential by completing continuing education credits every few years.
The job outlook for CCTs is positive, with an expected growth rate of 21% from 2018 to 2028.* With an aging population and advances in medical technology, there will be an increasing need for CCTs to provide care for critically ill patients.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Critical Care Technicians,
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/critical-care-technicians.htm
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