Medical Technicians (ANZSCO 3112) play a crucial role in the healthcare industry in Australia. They are responsible for operating various types of medical equipment, such as anaesthetic, cardiac, operating theatre, and medical testing equipment. Additionally, they perform and assist with laboratory tests and fill prescriptions in support of Health Professionals.

Indicative Skill Level:

Most occupations in the Medical Technicians unit group require a certain level of skill, which is determined by the qualifications and experience of the individual. In Australia, a skill level of 2 is typically required, which can be achieved through an AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least three years of relevant experience. In New Zealand, a skill level of 2 can be obtained through an NZQF Diploma or at least three years of relevant experience. It is important to note that in some instances, additional on-the-job training and experience may be necessary alongside formal qualifications. Registration or licensing may also be required for certain occupations within this unit group.

Tasks Include:

• Operating equipment used in diagnosing and monitoring disorders of the heart, lungs, kidneys, nervous system, and hearing, as well as in anaesthesia.
• Undertaking and assisting with medical analytical procedures and supporting Anaesthetists and surgical teams.
• Recording the electrical activity of the heart, measuring heart rate, and interpreting patterns and rhythms.
• Taking, collecting, and labelling blood, urine, and other samples from patients.
• Preparing and staining slides and tissue sections for blood and histological examination.
• Performing diagnostic tests on tissues and body fluids, analyzing the chemical constituents of blood, urine, faeces, and tissues.
• Testing for diseases by looking for the presence of antibodies and immune response products in samples.
• Setting up, checking, and maintaining operating theatres, anaesthetic workstations, life support machines, and associated equipment.
• Referring prescriptions to Pharmacists and assisting in preparing medications.
• Operating and maintaining equipment used in diagnosing and monitoring breathing or sleep disorders.

Occupations:

• 311211 Anaesthetic Technician
• 311212 Cardiac Technician
• 311213 Medical Laboratory Technician
• 311214 Operating Theatre Technician
• 311215 Pharmacy Technician
• 311216 Pathology Collector / Phlebotomist
• 311217 Respiratory Technician
• 311299 Medical Technicians nec

311211 Anaesthetic Technician

An Anaesthetic Technician is responsible for preparing and maintaining anaesthetic equipment for operating theatres or clinics. They also assist Anaesthetists during anaesthetic procedures.

Skill Level: 2

311212 Cardiac Technician

A Cardiac Technician conducts tests on patients to record heart activity using specialized equipment, recording devices, and laboratory instruments. They support Cardiologists and other Medical Practitioners in diagnosing, monitoring, and treating heart disease.

Skill Level: 2

Specializations: Cardiac Technologist, Electrocardiographic Technician

311213 Medical Laboratory Technician

Alternative Title: Medical Laboratory Technical Officer

A Medical Laboratory Technician performs routine medical laboratory tests and operates diagnostic laboratory equipment under the supervision of Medical Laboratory Scientists and Pathologists. They may be required to possess registration or licensing.

Skill Level: 2

311214 Operating Theatre Technician

An Operating Theatre Technician is responsible for preparing and maintaining an operating theatre and its equipment. They assist the surgical team during operations and provide support to patients in the recovery room.

Skill Level: 3

311215 Pharmacy Technician

Alternative Title: Dispensary Technician

A Pharmacy Technician fills and labels patients' prescriptions under the supervision of a Pharmacist. They may also be involved in recording details, placing orders, taking stock, and delivering medications and medical supplies to patients.

Skill Level: 2

311216 Pathology Collector / Phlebotomist

Alternative Title: Specimen Collector

A Pathology Collector or Phlebotomist extracts, collects, labels, and preserves blood and other specimens from patients for laboratory analysis.

Skill Level: 3

Specialization: Blood Collector

311217 Respiratory Technician

Alternative Title: Sleep Technician

A Respiratory Technician performs routine lung function tests and uses and maintains diagnostic equipment under the supervision of Respiratory Scientists. They also monitor patients on ventilation or undergoing sleep studies.

Skill Level: 2

Specialization: Neurophysiological Technician

311299 Medical Technicians nec

This occupation group covers Medical Technicians not elsewhere classified. It includes various occupations such as Audiometrist, Dialysis Technician, Electroencephalographic Technician, Mortuary Technician, Ophthalmic Technician, Orthotic and Prosthetic Technician, Perfusionist, and Renal Technician.

Skill Level: 2