How to Become a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT): Your Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve ever been intrigued by the idea of working in a high-tech medical environment—helping patients heal through the power of pressurized oxygen—then becoming a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) might be the perfect career path for you.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a specialized treatment used to accelerate healing for a range of conditions, from chronic wounds to decompression sickness. And behind every successful HBOT session is a skilled hyperbaric technician ensuring the chamber operates safely and effectively.

So, how do you become one of these highly trained professionals? Here’s everything you need to know:

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What Is a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist?

A Certified Hyperbaric Technologist (CHT) is a professional trained in the operation and maintenance of hyperbaric chambers. CHTs are responsible for:

• Preparing and monitoring patients during treatments
• Maintaining and troubleshooting hyperbaric equipment
• Ensuring strict safety protocols are followed
• Assisting medical staff in documenting and managing treatments

The certification is awarded by the National Board of Diving and Hyperbaric Medical Technology (NBDHMT), a leading authority in hyperbaric safety and training.

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Step 1: Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements

Before you can become certified, you need to meet the prerequisites established by the NBDHMT.   Please visit their website for detailed information.  

https://nbdhmt.org/certified-hyperbaric-technologist-training-and-certification

Qualifying pathways are:
Respiratory Therapist, Physician Assistant, Active Duty Military Corpsman, EMT/Paramedic, Registered Nurse or LPN, Nurse Practitioner and Physician  

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Step 2: Complete a Hyperbaric Training Course

NBDHMT-approved hyperbaric training courses typically last between 40–60 hours and cover topics such as:

• Hyperbaric chamber operations
• Physics of compressed gas
• Patient safety and care
• Emergency procedures
• Hyperbaric-specific diseases

Courses can be taken in person or live online, and many hospitals or hyperbaric facilities offer training through accredited providers.

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Step 3: Gain Clinical Experience

To sit for the certification exam, you must complete 480 hours of hands-on clinical experience in a hyperbaric setting. This ensures you’re well-versed in:

• Operating the chamber
• Monitoring patient vitals
• Recognizing complications
• Documenting treatments

This experience is typically gained through an internship or by working as a hyperbaric assistant or technician in training.

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Step 4: Pass the Certification Exam

Once you meet the educational and clinical requirements, you can apply to take the CHT certification exam through the NBDHMT. The exam covers a range of topics, including:

• Hyperbaric medicine principles
• Safety regulations and best practices
• Equipment operation and troubleshooting
• Patient care techniques

It’s a 120 question multiple-choice test, and study guides are available through the NBDHMT or training providers.

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Step 5: Maintain Your Certification

After becoming certified, you’ll need to:

• Renew your certification every two years
• Complete continuing education credits (CEUs)
• Stay updated on advancements in hyperbaric medicine and safety protocols

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Final Thoughts

Becoming a Certified Hyperbaric Technologist is both challenging and rewarding. You’ll work in a fascinating medical niche, play a vital role in patient recovery, and gain skills that are in demand at hospitals, wound care centers, and dive medicine facilities around the world.

If you love technology, thrive in precise environments, and want to make a difference in patient outcomes, becoming a CHT might just be your perfect next step.