What does an endoscopy technician do?

What is an Endoscopy Technician?

Endoscopy technicians assist doctors and nurses with endoscopies. An endoscopy is a procedure that involves a physician using an endoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached to its end), to examine the gastrointestinal, or digestive tract, of a patient.

Endoscopy technicians ensure that all equipment is sterilized and set up properly. They also help to run the equipment during a procedure, provide the patient with physical and emotional support during the procedure, and sterilize the equipment after the procedure has been completed.

What does an Endoscopy Technician do?

Endoscopies help detect diseases or lesions, and can also take a biopsy of tissue. This non-surgical procedure is safe, efficient, and preferable to exploratory surgery.

Endoscopy procedures offer a look into the organs and cavities within the body and the endoscope can be used to examine the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, colon, pancreas and the biliary tract. The endoscopy procedure can also be used to obtain samples for biopsies so that doctors can better examine and assess any disease and what needs to be done to promote the healing process. The endoscopy offers a direct look into the GI tract and helps detect inflammation, superficial lesions, ulcerations and other abnormalities.

During the endoscopy procedure, an endoscope is used to give a view of the patient's gastrointestinal tract. The endoscope, a flexible fiberoptic instrument, is passed through one of the openings in the body, which allows the examination of a section or the lining organs in the gastrointestinal tract. While the endoscope is inserted through a natural opening in the body, it can also be done through an incision.

The endoscopy technician plays an important role among the gastroenterology team and provides help and support for physicians and nurses throughout the endoscopy procedure by helping to prepare materials, obtain specimens, and maintain a sterile field during the procedure.

As well as assisting with medical procedures, endoscopy technicians ensure all equipment is functioning properly before use. They are familiar with rules, standards, practices, and procedures and can communicate with appropriate health staff in regards to findings.

What is the workplace of an Endoscopy Technician like?

Endoscopy technicians work in a busy environment and are part of a team of nurses and doctors who work in the gastroenterology field. Many hospitals that specialize in endoscopy procedures may perform hundreds of procedures a month.

Work is typically found in clinics or hospitals that hold a surgical or gastroenterology clinic, with some technicians finding positions in nursing homes or long-term care facilities. Shifts may include early morning hours and afternoons, with a few late shifts.