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Are you looking for a new career in the medical field? If so, you may be wondering how to become an IV tech. IV techs are in high demand and play an important role in the healthcare industry. Keep reading to learn more about this rewarding career and how to become an IV tech.
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Introduction
Are you interested in becoming an IV (intravenous) technician? If so, you’re in luck! This is a growing field with many opportunities for those who are properly trained and certified.
An IV technician is responsible for administering IV treatments and medications to patients. This can be done in a hospital setting, but many IV techs also work in outpatient clinics, doctor’s offices, and even in patients’ homes.
IV therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions, so as an IV tech, you could find yourself working with patients who have cancer, diabetes, dehydration, or who are recovering from surgery. No two days on the job will be alike!
If you’re ready to start your new career as an IV tech, read on for a step-by-step guide on how to become one.
What is an IV tech?
An IV tech is a healthcare professional who is specially trained to insert and maintain intravenous (IV) catheters. IVs are commonly used in hospitals and other healthcare settings to deliver fluids and medications directly into a patient’s veins.
IV techs must be certified in order to practice. Certification requirements vary by state, but most states require completion of an accredited IV therapy training program and passing a national certification exam. Some states also require IV techs to be licensed as practical or registered nurses.
If you’re interested in becoming an IV tech, follow the steps below to get started.
1. Complete a training program. Most IV techs complete an accredited training program, which can last anywhere from 6 weeks to 2 years, depending on the level of training. Programs typically offer both classroom and clinical instruction in topics such as infection control, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and medical terminology.
2. Pass the national certification exam. All states require IV techs to be nationally certified before they can practice. The most common certification exams for IV techs are offered by the National Board of Certification and Recertification for Laboratory Personnel (NBCLSP) and the American Medical Association (AMA).
3. Apply for state licensure (if required). Some states require IV techs to be licensed as practical or registered nurses. Licensure requirements vary by state, but most states require completion of an accredited nursing program and passing the national nursing licensure exam (NCLEX-RN).
4. Find a job! Once you have completed all the necessary steps, you can begin working as an IV tech in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or long-term care facility. Many IV techs also choose to work as traveling Healthcare professionals, which allows them to work in multiple facilities across the country
The steps to becoming an IV tech
Becoming an IV tech can be a great career choice for those who want to work in the medical field but don’t want to be a nurse or doctor. It’s a relatively short training program and you can get started working in a hospital or clinic right away. Plus, IV techs make a good salary. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become an IV tech.
Step 1: Research the requirements
To become an IV tech, you’ll need to meet the educational and clinical requirements set forth by your state’s Board of Nursing. While requirements vary by state, most will require you to complete an accredited nursing program and earn a passing score on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Generally, IV techs specialize in a certain area of nursing, such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or oncology. Once you’ve completed your nursing program and earned your RN license, you can begin applying for IV tech positions at hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
Step 2: Get certified
There are a few different ways to become certified as an IV tech. You can either take a certification course through a community college or online, or you can become certified through the National Healthcare Association (NHA).
If you choose to take a certification course, you will likely need to complete between 40 and 60 hours of classroom and clinical instruction. Once you have completed the course, you will then need to pass an exam in order to become certified.
If you choose to become certified through the NHA, you will need to complete an exam that covers both theory and practical skills. Once you have passed the exam, you will be a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) with a specialization in intravenous (IV) therapy.
Step 3: Find a job
There are several ways to find a job as an IV tech. You can look online, in the newspaper, or even in the phone book. You can also contact your local hospital or medical center and ask if they are hiring IV techs. Once you find a job, you will need to complete an application and interview process.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped you better understand what it takes to become an IV tech. While it’s a demanding career, it can also be very rewarding. If you have the dedication and passion for helping others, then a career in IV therapy could be perfect for you.
