A pulmonary laboratory technician, also known as a lab tech, collaborates closely with doctors and patients to diagnose, treat, and manage pulmonary diseases. Breathing problems, lung disease, and pulmonary artery problems are all classified as pulmonary disorders. A pulmonary laboratory tech may work directly with doctors to diagnose problems with a patient or may work with patients to learn healthy breathing techniques and the maintenance of diseases that have already been diagnosed. To work as a pulmonary laboratory technician, you must first learn how to perform tests on patients that help doctors diagnose cardiopulmonary problems or diseases.
Students interested in becoming a pulmonary laboratory technician should enroll in a two- or four-year medical program at an accredited school or university. The most sought-after degrees and licenses are for registered nurses, pulmonary function technologists, and respiratory therapists. As with most medical jobs, the level of training required to work as a lab tech varies depending on the job and location. Licensing and certification may be required after completing an accredited cardiopulmonary studies course, depending on the job desired and the location.
Pulmonary laboratory technicians may work in hospitals’ cardiopulmonary units, private practices, or special group practices specializing in cardiopulmonary or pulmonary diseases. Pulmonary lab techs may begin their medical careers doing billing or other office work before progressing to pulmonary function tests like spirometry, which measures breath, or pulmonary artery gas measurement. Many employers seek future employees who have strong math and computer skills, as well as organizational and customer service abilities.
Those considering a career as a pulmonary laboratory technician should be aware that pay is heavily influenced by the number of hours worked, location of practice, prior experience in the field, and level of education and licensing. Continuing education is generally required after completing a two- or four-year degree in medical studies and passing all required licensing exams for the location where the student intends to practice. For those who want to work as a pulmonary laboratory technician, any medical education will improve their chances of finding work.