How to Become Qualified on Medical Instruments and Equipment
- 1). Earn a degree from an accredited program on medical equipment and technology operation if you are entering the equipment operation field. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that people in the radiology field need two- or four-year degrees from colleges, universities and vocational programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. JRCERT catalogs those programs on its website.
- 2). Take certification or continuing education classes from medical device training institutes and trade organizations such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation if you are entering or furthering your education in medical equipment use or repair. There are numerous certifications covering a broad range of medical equipment. Some people acquire backup options and diversify their careers by obtaining multiple certifications.
- 3). Learn from manufacturer-sponsored training courses. Medical equipment manufacturers sometimes provide paid and/or free continuing education courses for clinicians who want to learn to use their equipment. In some cases, manufacturers give free training to health care employees as part of the sales package to a hospital or medical organization.
- 4). If you are a clinician already employed in hospital or medical setting, you can train under another clinician who is an expert in the use of the particular equipment. Hospital resident physicians in training often learn how to use equipment from their mentoring physicians. Similarly, nurses and nurse educators work with new nurses on how to work numerous medical devices.
- 5). Enroll in college or university continuing education courses. Many community colleges and vocational schools, as well as nursing and medical schools, offer continuing education courses for clinicians to stay abreast of the latest technologies, procedures and techniques. Some courses involve hands-on training with equipment.