Nurse technicians work closely with doctors and registered nurses (RN's) in hospitals, nursing homes, doctor's offices, and other healthcare facilities. Sometimes referred to as hospital attendants or orderlies, they perform a vital role in patient care.

Nurse Tech Qualifictations

Most nurse technicians have completed a college-level registered nursing program and are approved to sit for the state license exam to become a registered nurse. Many are also studying toward RN status while working.

Typical Duties

The duties of a nurse technician can vary widely depending on level of experience and specialty. Tasks of this position can include observing patients and recording and reporting their condition, assistance with bathing and feeding, escorting patients, preparing hospital rooms, and sterilizing hospital equipment.

Specializing

Just as with other levels of nursing, nurse technicians have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of the medical spectrum. Choose a career in obstetrics, senior care, or pediatrics, or work with patients going in and out of the emergency room. The possibilities are as wide as the nursing field.

Nurse Tech vs. Certified Nurse Tech.

Nurse technicians perform many of the same duties as a Certified Nurse Aide, whose training is geared toward providing for the hands on comfort, safety, and care of patients under a doctor or nurse's supervision.

Nursing Duties

Sometimes, nurse technicians will be called upon to do the nurse's work, such as checking vital signs, drawing blood, checking medications, and monitoring machines. Nurse technicians have direct contact with patients and therefore play a vital role in their care.

Source:

Education-Portal.com: What is a Nurse Technician and How Do You Become a Nurse Tech?

DegreeDirectory.org: What is a Nurse Technician?