Becoming a nurse tech is a great way to take care of others and help them manage their health.
To become a nurse tech, you must first complete high school, then go on to earn your associate degree in nursing technology. Once you have your associate degree, you can begin working as a nurse tech by taking some additional courses.
There are several requirements for becoming a nurse tech. You must have at least an associate degree in nursing technology from an accredited institution. You also need to pass an exam that is administered by the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
How To Become Nurse Tech
Working in health care provides the opportunity to interact with people as they work toward their health goals. Many opportunities are available to those who want to work in health care, including the opportunity to work as a nursing technician. Understanding the role and duties of a nursing technician can help you decide whether this career path is one you want to pursue.
In this article, we discuss the role, how to become a nursing technician, nursing technician skills and the average salary and job outlook for nursing technicians.
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What is a nursing technician?
A nursing technician is a health care provider who provides basic medical care to patients in clinics, hospitals and other care facilities. They often work directly with registered nurses to assist with various tasks and provide support. Nursing technicians may also be referred to as nursing aides, nursing attendants and certified nursing technicians (CNT). In this role, an individual cares for a patient’s basic health and cleanliness needs.
Related: 20 of the Fastest Growing Health Care Jobs
What does a nursing technician do?
Nursing technicians have a number of tasks for which they are responsible. They interact directly with patients in various health care settings, including inpatient and outpatient care facilities, hospitals and medical clinics. Some of their key duties include observing patients, taking vital signs and dispensing medications. Since they are responsible for the cleanliness and basic health needs of the patients in their care, nursing technicians may also assist with basic grooming and hygiene needs. They might dress wounds, assist with medical procedures, report medical concerns to nursing staff and prepare rooms for admissions.
A nursing technician may also maintain the cleanliness of a patient’s surroundings by changing their sheets, making their bed, removing food trays and maintaining a clean work environment for the other health care providers who will administer care and treatment. If a patient is leaving their room to undergo surgery or a test, the nursing technician may walk with them to ensure their safety and arrival to the correct location. Some nursing technicians assist with lab testing, including the collection and labeling of specimens, and provide assistance during examination and/or treatment.
Related: Learn About Being a Patient Care Technician
How to become a nursing technician
Nursing technicians play an important role in the safety, care and well-being of the patients for which they provide support. Working as a nursing technician allows an individual to interact with and provide support to people as they recover from surgery and health conditions or receive medical treatment. Review the steps below to learn how to pursue a career as a nursing technician.
1. Complete high school
The first step in working as a nursing technician is completing high school, as nearly all individuals working in this role have at least a high school diploma. Some high schools offer health care education to students, including certified nursing aide (CNA) training and courses. Even if your school does not offer health care courses, you can prepare yourself for further education by taking biology, anatomy, zoology and other science courses.
2. Look for jobs in health care
Experience is highly valued in health care, so finding an entry-level position in the field can help you get ahead. While you pursue additional education in your quest to work as a nursing technician, you can work in a health care setting to gain experience.
3. Check the requirements in your state
Each state has its own requirements for nursing technicians working in the field. Some require the completion of a formal education program, while others allow high school graduates to work in these roles. You may have to register to work in your state and maintain the registration annually. Registration for those working in health care may involve background screenings, examinations and health testing.
4. Pursue further education
Most nursing technician jobs require at least an associate’s degree in a related field. Some colleges, technical schools and vocational schools offer nursing technician programs for those who want to pursue this field. If you attend a school that does not have a dedicated nursing technician program, look for opportunities in health care or science that would provide you with the knowledge you need to interact with and support patients. Some of the important courses include anatomy, personal care, nutrition and infection control.
Related: 52 Medical Technician Jobs (With Salary and Duties)
5. Earn your CNA license
Earning a certified nursing aide license can help you as you pursue a career as a nursing technician. CNAs share some of the same duties and responsibilities as nursing technicians, so this certification can help you gain experience and stand out from other applicants to open positions.
6. Become certified
Several professional organizations offer nationally recognized certifications to nursing technicians. In order to become certified, you will need to pass an examination and demonstrate your skills. One example is the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) designation, which is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Before you pursue a certification, you may want to review the job postings in your area to determine whether the health care facilities prefer or require a particular certification.
Related: Medical Assistant vs. Nursing Assistant: What’s the Difference
Skills for nursing technicians
Nursing technicians need certain skills to succeed including:
- The ability to understand infection control standards and follow safety protocols to ensure patient protection
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Attention to detail
- People skills
- The ability to perform minor procedures and care for patients’ needs
Related: 9 Medical Assistant Skills To Include on Your Resume
Nursing technician work environment
Most nursing technicians work in hospitals, inpatient and outpatient care facilities and medical clinics. The work may involve physically lifting and supporting patients who are unable to lift themselves or walk. Nursing technicians spend the majority of their shifts on their feet, walking and standing. They may be exposed to potentially hazardous materials, so this role can require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Nursing technicians typically work under the direct supervision of registered nurses and interact with other members of the health care support staff, including physicians. They must be able to follow directions and work quickly and efficiently in high-pressure situations.
Related: 52 Medical Technician Jobs (With Salary and Duties)
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Salary and job outlook for nursing technicians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics includes nursing technicians under the category of nursing assistants and orderlies. According to the projections, the job outlook for nursing technicians is positive with an estimated growth rate of 8% between 2020 and 2030. The average salary is $39,447 per year.
