What does a Nurse Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A nurse technician is a health care professional who provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Nurse technicians typically work in hospitals, but may also work in other settings such as nursing homes and clinics. They are responsible for taking vital signs, assisting with activities of daily living, and providing emotional support to patients and their families.
Nurse Technician job duties include:
- Assist patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting
- Take vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
- Help with patient positioning and turning
- Collect urine and stool specimens
- Assist with wound care
- Insert catheters and perform bladder scans
- Perform EKGs and phlebotomy
- Provide basic patient education on disease process, medications, and discharge instructions
- Serve as a liaison between the patient and the registered nurse
Nurse Technician Job Requirements
A nurse technician is a health care professional who provides basic patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Nurse technicians typically have an associate's degree in nursing, although some may have a diploma or bachelor's degree. They must be licensed by the state in which they practice. Most nurse technicians have at least one year of experience working in a hospital or other health care setting.
Nurse Technician Skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Excellent communication skills
- Good organizational skills
- Ability to multitask
- Strong attention to detail
- Good people skills
- Ability to follow instructions
- Physical stamina
- Emotional stability
- Good problem-solving skills
- Critical thinking skills
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How to become a Nurse Technician
A nurse technician is a health care professional who provides direct patient care under the supervision of a registered nurse. Nurse technicians typically work in hospitals, but may also work in other settings such as nursing homes, clinics, and home health care agencies.
Becoming a nurse technician requires completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-PN (National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses) exam. Most states also require nurse technicians to be licensed by the state Board of Nursing. Once you have completed all of the necessary education and training requirements, you will be ready to begin your career as a nurse technician!
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