What Are the Requirements to Become an EEG Technologist?
EEG technologists, sometimes known as electroneurodiagnostic technologists, are proficient in the use of electroencephalograph (EEG) machines to measure the brain functions of patients. Different types of equipment are used to conduct other types of electroneurodiagnostic tests, such as polysomnograms, nerve conduction studies, or evoked potentials. Keep reading if you want to find out the education and licensure requirements for EEG technologists.
Education
<p>Although it's possible to become an EEG technologist through on-the-job training, many employers prefer job candidates who have completed formal training programs. Pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Electroneurodiagnostic Technology or a related degree from an accredited college can be your first step toward becoming an EEG technologist. A two-year, full-time program teaches you basic medical terminology and professional ethics used for the job, as well as anatomy and physiology of the nervous system. Because you'll be working closely with patients, you could also take a course in interpersonal communication.
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<p>Hands-on courses and labs introduce you to the machinery and techniques used in electroneurodiagnostics. Course topics cover different types of instrumentation and their usages, as well as how to correctly use the equipment in clinical situations. You'll practice your learned concepts in clinical settings, such as facilities that help sleep disorder patients, epilepsy patients, or patients with other nervous disorders. In these rotations, you'll be able to practice your patient interaction skills and learn correct operating procedures for EEG machinery, polysomnographs, and other equipment from experienced EEG technologists.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutThisOccupation">Important Facts About This Occupation</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td> Median Salary (2022) </td><td> $55,282*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Similar Occupations </td><td> Neurodiagnostic Technologist, Registered Polysomnographic Technologist, Certified Neurological Intraoperative Monitoring Technologist</td></tr>
<tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Intra-operative monitoring and video EEG monitoring</td></tr>
<tr><td> Work Environment </td><td> Medical institutions like hospitals or through private practice</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 7% growth (<i>for all neurodiagnostic technologists</i>)**</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Sources: *PayScale.com, **CareerOneStop</i>
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<h3 id="section---Certification">Certification</h3>
<p>According to the American Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technologists (ASET), as of February 2014, there were no state licensure requirements for general EEG technologists (<i>www.aset.org</i>). However, legislation for regulating the profession could be under way in some states. If you perform more advanced tasks, such as polysomnography studies or nerve conduction studies, a state license could be necessary.
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<p>Although you might not need to obtain a license as an EEG technologist, the ASET does suggest that you take and pass an optional national examination to earn credentials. The American Board of Registration of Electroencephalographic and Evoked Potential Technologists (ABRET) offers a credentialing exam that consists of written and oral sections (<i>www.abret.org</i>). In addition to holding current CPR certification, you must meet a combination of education and experience requirements.</p>