How to Become a Hyperbaric Technician
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Hyperbaric Technician
What does a Hyperbaric Technician do?
A Hyperbaric Technician administers hyperbaric oxygen therapy and diagnostic testing to patients under the direction of a physician. Documents required treatment details including equipment settings, treatment duration, and patient response. Being a Hyperbaric Technician operates hyperbaric chamber and other hyperbaric support systems in accordance to all applicable safety standards and regulations. Performs cleaning of chamber and equipment according to infection control policies. Additionally, Hyperbaric Technician performs equipment checks and system maintenance. Requires a high school diploma. Requires Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT). Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. The Hyperbaric Technician works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. To be a Hyperbaric Technician typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
A hyperbaric technician is certified to administer oxygen treatments to persons needing high-oxygen or hyperbaric — high pressure — treatment, whether through a mask or in a hyperbaric chamber.
The technician works with medical staff under the supervision of a physician to administer hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT).
The foundation of knowledge necessary for a hyperbaric technician to operate a hyperbaric chamber includes a full understanding of gas systems as well as mathematical calculations and conversion factors, methods of identifying and testing for gas impurities, requirements for the calibration of gas equipment, and the reporting of medical data.
In addition, a hyperbaric technician must also be familiar with all general clinic skills, including obtaining medical histories, assisting in patient care procedures like reading vital signs, operating basic medical equipment like gurneys and wheelchairs, reading EKG stats, and administering life support.
In the US, an organization known as the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology (NBDHMT) offers Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) training programs.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Hyperbaric Technician
Best tips for those who want to become a Hyperbaric Technician
Here are some tips to become a Hyperbaric Technician.
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Hyperbaric Technician
Best colleges and universities for Hyperbaric Technician
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Hyperbaric Technician
Is being a Hyperbaric Technician Worth it?
The first step to becoming a CHT is to complete an introductory course accredited by the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology.
You then take on a clinical work experience internship, which involves 480 hours of training in hyperbaric medicine, undersea or aviation medicine technology.
During this time, you learn about hyperbaric clinical care, the way the chamber works and safety protocols.
Education is ongoing -- you need 12 additional credits every two years, half of which must be in the hyperbaric field.
The initial training course is also available from various training companies, dive centers and specialist hyperbaric companies.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Hyperbaric Technician
What skills do you need to be a Hyperbaric Technician?
Although this job may seem to be a more junior position, there are still certain skill sets which an applicant needs to possess to do well. In order to support the team, a strong grasp of these skills is necessary: Medical Equipment Management (MEM), Medical Record Keeping, Patient Monitoring, Administer Therapeutic Treatments, Operate Specialized Medical Equipment, Physician Support. Profecciency in the following is key: Electronic health records (EHR) Software. Experience and professionalism are always important to landing any job, and a mastery of these skills will help amplify your qualifications.
Highly skilled hyperbaric technicians, who follow a physician-prescribed treatment plan for each patient, are a key to successful hyperbaric therapy.
Complete technician classroom and practical skills requirements; plus a 480-hour internship focused on hyperbaric, aviation or undersea medicine.
Technicians who could operate the chambers were often diving experts rather than medical professionals.
You then take on a clinical work experience internship, which involves 480 hours of training in hyperbaric medicine, undersea or aviation medicine technology.
Education is ongoing -- you need 12 additional credits every two years, half of which must be in the hyperbaric field.
Step 6: View average salary for Hyperbaric Technician
How much does a Hyperbaric Technician make?
The average salary range for a Hyperbaric Technician is from $53,107 to $67,751. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Hyperbaric Technician jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Hyperbaric Technician jobs, and apply.
Looking for Hyperbaric Technician jobs?
Here are some Hyperbaric Technician jobs in the United States.