What does a Health Technician do?
Published 4 min read
A health technician is a professional who provides support to medical staff and patients in a variety of settings. They may work in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, or other healthcare facilities. Health technicians typically have an associate’s degree or certificate in a medical field. Their duties vary depending on their specific job title, but they often include taking patient medical histories, measuring vital signs, administering injections and vaccinations, and providing instruction to patients on how to care for themselves at home.
Health Technician job duties include:
- Administering injections and vaccinations
- Drawing blood
- Measuring patients’ vital signs
- Recording medical histories and symptoms
- Assisting with minor surgeries
- Performing diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and EKGs
- Counseling patients on health and wellness
- Providing first aid
- Educating patients and families about disease prevention
- Referring patients to specialists or other health care professionals
Health Technician Job Requirements
There are no formal education requirements for health technicians, although most have at least a high school diploma. Many health technicians learn on the job, although some may have formal training from a vocational school or community college. Some states have certification programs for health technicians. In most cases, certification is not required but may be helpful in getting a job or advancing in one's career. Health technicians typically need to have good communication and customer service skills. They must be able to follow instructions and work well as part of a team. Experience is not always necessary, but it can be helpful.
Health Technician Skills
- Ability to take and record patient vital signs
- Ability to perform basic lab tests
- Ability to administer injections
- Ability to apply dressings
- Ability to give oral and written instruction to patients
- Basic knowledge of medical terminology
- Basic computer skills
- Good communication skills
- Good organizational skills
- Detail oriented
- Ability to work well under pressure
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How to become a Health Technician
A Health Technician is a medical professional who provides direct patient care and support. Health Technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks, including taking medical histories, measuring vital signs, and providing basic patient care. They may also assist with diagnostic testing, minor surgical procedures, and the administration of medications.
Becoming a Health Technician requires completing an accredited health technology program. Many community colleges offer health technology programs that can be completed in two years or less. Upon completion of a health technology program, students must pass a national certification exam to become a certified Health Technician.
Those interested in becoming a Health Technician should have strong communication skills and be able to work well under pressure. They should also be detail-oriented and able to follow instructions accurately. Health Technicians must be able to maintain confidentiality and show empathy and compassion when working with patients.
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