Oklahoma Laser Technician School, Certification and Salary
Interested in starting a career as a Laser Technician in Oklahoma and not sure where to start begin? Take a minute to read our summary of what education you need, any certifications required, job opportunities and salary expectations.
Based on the US Labor Bureau, the state of Oklahoma estimates job market growth for skincare specialist of over 12.1% through 2024. This is just below the national average of 13% which makes Oklahoma an average location start a Laser Technician career.
The requirements for any person providing laser treatment are set by the Oklahoma Medical Board and the Board of Nursing. These rules can be found here.
Education Required
The Medical Board of Oklahoma ruled by statute that the use of lasers in cosmetic or medical procedures is considered the practice of medicine. As such, only a licensed physician may perform or delegate these procedures to a licensed nurse.
Licensed Nurses include Advanced Practice Nurses (APN), Registered Nurses (RN) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN).
All three of these designations will require a bachelors degree with completion of a nursing program approved by the state board. In addition nurses must complete the following training requirements in order to perform laser treatments:
“Documentation of the nurses’ satisfactory completion of instruction, supervised clinical practice, and evidence of current competency is on file with the employer. Supervised practice of laser techniques should be first carried out using inanimate objects (such as fruit, vegetables), before initial application of these techniques to humans.
Course of Instruction is to include didactic and clinical aspects of the following but not be limited to:
- Anatomy and physiology of the skin surface areas to be treated.
- Indications and contraindications to the use of pigment and vascular specific lasers for cutaneous procedures.
- Potential adverse reactions and their treatment(s).
- Nursing care responsibilities.
- Specific considerations including but not limited to:
- Basic laser physics.
- Laser safety protocols.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the American National Standards for Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care Facilities safety standards.
- Laser-tissue interactions.
- Potential hazards and complications
- Topical anesthetic agents.
- Documentation of laser settings and patient response.
- Post procedure care and home care instructions, including wound care.
- Operating and maintenance requirements specific to the equipment in use.”
Completion of a nursing program typically takes between 4-6 years to complete.
Oklahoma Laser Technician Certification(s)
Becoming a laser technician in Oklahoma will require licensure as a APR, RN or LPN. Licensure can be applied for after a passing score on the state boards, an examination administered by the state medical board.
Job Opportunities
The job market in Oklahoma for skincare specialist has been growing year over year, with a wealth of opportunities to start a career. You can see a detailed list of job postings on our Laser Technician Jobs page. Just filter to Oklahoma to find opportunities in your area.
Laser Technician Jobs
Salary Expectations
Registered Nurses and Advance Practice Nurses in the state of Oklahoma can expect an average income between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, or $29 to $40/hour. This salary expectation is over twice than the national average of $30,270 which is driven by the nursing licensure to practice laser treatments in this state. Experience can also increase your salary over time.