GI Tech

GI / Endoscopy Technician

DEFINITION OF POSITION

The GI/Endoscopy Technician provides individualized and specialized support to patients in the Endoscopy Center in accordance with established policies and procedures. The position assists with procedure room preparation, endoscopy equipment and instrument processing, patient care activities, infection control, and maintaining a safe and efficient procedural environment.

The GI/Endoscopy Technician works cooperatively with physicians, nurses, and other staff, demonstrates effective teamwork, and uses appropriate initiative, judgment, and attention to detail in performing assigned responsibilities.

CLINICAL FUNCTIONS

Room Preparation

• Prepare procedure rooms and equipment based on patient and procedural needs.
• Perform housekeeping and sanitation tasks necessary to maintain a clean and safe environment.
• Obtain supplies and equipment required for scheduled procedures.
• Test equipment for proper function and promptly report any malfunction.
• Following each procedure, clean and prepare the room and restock supplies for the next procedure or for the end of the day.

Processing of Instruments and Equipment

• Clean, organize, and properly handle instruments and equipment.
• Package supplies and instruments appropriately for sterilization.
• Demonstrate proper use of washing, disinfecting, and sterilizing equipment.
• Select the appropriate method of sterilization for instruments and equipment.
• Demonstrate knowledge of chemical sterilization and disinfection processes.
• Identify items requiring disinfection and select the appropriate disinfecting agent.
• Follow appropriate aseptic techniques.
• Handle tissue specimens correctly and accurately.
• Demonstrate knowledge of endoscope functions and equipment utilized during procedures.
• Properly decontaminate equipment after use.
• Perform housekeeping and sanitation tasks necessary to maintain the processing area.

Infection Control

• Wear appropriate attire and personal protective equipment in accordance with facility policy.
• Follow universal precautions and established infection-control procedures.
• Use gowns, gloves, and other protective equipment according to policy.
• Follow recognized principles of cleanliness, sanitation, and infection prevention.

Safety Precautions

• Promote patient safety throughout the perioperative experience.
• Operate mechanical and electrical equipment correctly and safely.
• Escort and transport patients safely.
• Assist with medication-related activities as permitted and directed in accordance with facility policy and applicable scope requirements.
• Maintain the safety of patients, staff, and other members of the healthcare team.
• Properly dispose of sharps.
• Correctly handle hazardous and contaminated materials.
• Demonstrate knowledge of fire safety procedures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the facility's emergency and disaster plan.

Leadership and Team Functions

• Participate effectively as a member of the healthcare team.
• Participate in Performance Improvement activities.
• Develop competency in new or unfamiliar skills as assigned.
• Utilize appropriate resource personnel when assistance is required.
• Demonstrate cost-effective use of supplies and replace used supplies in a timely manner.
• Complete appropriate documentation in the medical record.

Planning and Patient Care Support

• Assist with the Plan of Care to support established patient goals.
• Coordinate supplies and equipment necessary for patient care.
• Assist in maintaining an appropriate patient-care environment.
• Prepare for potential emergency situations.
• Provide patient-care assistance appropriate to age-specific needs.

Patient Transfer

• Assist nursing staff with patient transfers according to the prescribed Plan of Care.
• Determine and use the appropriate and safe transfer method based on patient needs.
• Attend to the patient's emotional needs during transfer.
• Communicate and document transfer-related information as required.

Equipment and Supplies

• Anticipate patient-care equipment and supply needs.
• Ensure equipment is functioning properly before use.
• Operate equipment according to manufacturers' instructions.
• Immediately remove malfunctioning equipment from service and report the issue.
• Ensure emergency equipment and supplies are readily available.
• Use supplies appropriately and cost-effectively.
• Communicate and document the provision and use of equipment and supplies as required.

Patient Monitoring

• Assist with monitoring patients for physical symptoms.
• Observe and report behavioral changes.
• Operate monitoring equipment according to manufacturers' instructions and facility procedures.
• Communicate and document patient physiological responses as appropriate.

Environmental Monitoring and Control

• Monitor temperature and humidity as indicated.
• Follow electrical safety policies and procedures.
• Monitor the sensory environment and maintain appropriate traffic patterns.
• Follow established sanitation policies and procedures.
• Communicate and document environmental controls as required.

Patient Rights and Confidentiality

• Demonstrate awareness of and respect for individual patient rights.
• Protect patient privacy and confidentiality.
• Maintain appropriate physical privacy for patients.
• Communicate and document actions related to patient rights as required.

Accountability and Professional Conduct

• Exercise safe and appropriate judgment in decision-making.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability to changes in clinical practice and departmental needs.
• Respond professionally and positively to constructive feedback.
• Demonstrate tact, courtesy, and understanding when interacting with patients, team members, other healthcare professionals, and the public.
• Practice within applicable ethical and legal guidelines.
• Seek opportunities for continued learning and professional development.
• Accurately communicate and document assigned activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of related work experience in GI endoscopy.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred; must be able to read, write, and speak English.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality patient care, professionalism, courtesy, and teamwork.
• Ability to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with applicable patient privacy policies.
• Membership in a GI specialty professional organization is encouraged.

CERTIFICATIONS

• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work involves prolonged periods of standing and sitting, as well as frequent bending and reaching. The position requires the ability to lift, push, pull, and maneuver equipment or other items weighing 50 pounds or less.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The Endoscopy Center operates Monday through Friday and includes pre-operative areas, procedure rooms, and post-procedure/recovery areas.

The work environment may involve occupational exposure to communicable diseases, blood and other body fluids, contaminated instruments and equipment, and hazardous materials. Employees are required to follow all applicable infection-control, safety, and personal protective equipment requirements.

The above statements describe the general nature and principal functions of this position and should not be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or requirements.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Successful completion of a criminal background check and drug screening.
• Successful completion of professional reference checks.

BENEFITS

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:

• 100% employer-paid employee health insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan

Qualified candidates with GI/endoscopy experience are encouraged to apply.