New ED tech

[kateee]

Hi! So I recently got offered a job as an ED tech at my local hospital, it's not a level 1 trauma center but it's still pretty good! I am a Cna and only have experience in med surg so I was hoping to get insight on what my new job will be like and what I should expect to be doing! Any input would be great! Thanks!

[WKShadowNP, DNP, APRN]

You will be expected to learn how to remove IVs, place patients on a cardiac monitor, do EKGs, place urinary catheters (either indwelling or in and out, aka straight cath). Depending on your facility's policies, you might be checked off on venipuncture for labs and fingersticks, perhaps urine dips/machine operation. Orthostatic VS are an important part as well, be sure to lie the patient flat first, then sitting, then standing.

Off the top of my head that's what we delegate frequently.

[TheCaptain, ASN, BSN, RN]

The poster above covered the majority of the skills you will learn, I would add splints and wound care (irrigation, skin prep) to that list depending on your facility. One hospital where I work does not allow techs to splint but my main job does. Our techs are also trained to place IVs (most are EMTs) and honestly are better at it than most of the nurses. Again that depends on your facility though.

[WKShadowNP, DNP, APRN]

The poster above covered the majority of the skills you will learn, I would add splints and wound care (irrigation, skin prep) to that list depending on your facility. One hospital where I work does not allow techs to splint but my main job does. Our techs are also trained to place IVs (most are EMTs) and honestly are better at it than most of the nurses. Again that depends on your facility though.

Oh yeah splints! Thanks for adding that.

[mindofmidwifery, ADN]

I am following this thread as I just got an offer as an ED tech as well :)