An endoscopy nurse is a professional nurse that treats patients who are suffering from any disease, disorder, or injury of the upper or lower digestive tract. They are responsible for the comfort of patients undergoing a procedure requiring an endoscope placed inside their body to view any abnormalities, growths, or changes in the structure of the alimentary canal or other hollow internal organs. Some of the specific responsibilities of an endoscopy registered nurse include:

• Screening patients for appropriate information
• Preparing patients for physician examination
• Wheeling patients under intravenous (IV) conscious sedation to procedure rooms
• Administering procedures
• Conducting cancer screenings
• Helping patients manage conditions, such as Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis
• Taking blood
• Assisting with patient preparation
• Helping physicians throughout their examination by handing them equipment if needed
• Dealing with more urgent matters such as anaphylaxis, severe bleeding, and other emergencies if they should arise

Endoscopy nurses must acquire specialized knowledge about gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases and the skills to use and maintain endoscopic equipment, administer medication, and manage emergencies and complications. They are also responsible for administering the necessary medication to patients, keeping the patient informed throughout the duration of the procedure, and completing all necessary documentation including patient notes and discharge documents. Endoscopy nurses can find employment as staff nurses in hospitals or specialty clinics, and they may also enter administrative positions.