The healthcare industry is vast, and for those who are interested in becoming an essential part of the surgical team, the role of a surgical technologist is both rewarding and vital. Surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs, are responsible for assisting surgeons during medical procedures, ensuring the operating room is sterile, and providing support for both patients and medical professionals. This article outlines the steps to becoming a surgical technologist, from education to certification, and why it’s an excellent career choice for those interested in healthcare.
What Is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist plays a crucial role in the operating room by supporting surgeons and other medical staff during surgical procedures. The primary responsibilities of a surgical tech include preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, assisting with patient positioning, and ensuring that the surgical team has all the necessary tools and equipment throughout the procedure. Surgical technologists must be familiar with surgical instruments, procedures, and patient safety protocols to ensure that surgeries run smoothly.
Why Become a Surgical Technologist?
Before diving into the steps of becoming a surgical technologist, let’s briefly explore why this is an excellent career choice:
- Job Demand: The healthcare industry continues to grow, and the demand for surgical technologists is increasing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for surgical technologists is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
- Competitive Salary: Surgical technologists are compensated well for their work. The median annual wage for surgical techs in the U.S. is around $50,000, with top earners making upwards of $70,000 per year.
- Job Satisfaction: Working as a surgical technologist provides a sense of fulfillment as you contribute directly to saving lives and improving patient outcomes. It’s a job that requires precision, skill, and a great deal of teamwork, making it both challenging and rewarding.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: Surgical technologists can pursue additional training or certifications in specialized fields, which can lead to more responsibilities, higher pay, and greater career satisfaction.
Steps to Becoming a Surgical Technologist
1. Meet Basic Education Requirements
To become a surgical technologist, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. In high school, students should focus on courses like biology, chemistry, health sciences, and anatomy, as these subjects will lay the groundwork for a career in surgery.
Once you have your high school diploma, the next step is to pursue formal education in surgical technology. You can enroll in a surgical technologist program offered by accredited community colleges, technical schools, or universities.
2. Complete a Surgical Technology Program
The most common path to becoming a surgical technologist is by completing an accredited surgical technology program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges, vocational schools, and universities. They usually take about 9 to 24 months to complete, depending on whether you pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
Here’s what you can expect during your training:
- Coursework: Students in surgical technology programs take courses in medical terminology, anatomy, surgical procedures, microbiology, pharmacology, and surgical instruments. They also learn how to maintain a sterile environment and assist in surgeries.
- Clinical Experience: Most programs include hands-on clinical training, where students work in actual healthcare settings. This gives students the opportunity to observe surgeries, work with surgical teams, and develop practical skills in a real-world environment.
- Accreditation: When choosing a surgical technology program, it’s crucial to ensure that it is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or another recognized accrediting agency. Accreditation ensures that the program meets high standards of education and prepares you for certification exams.
3. Obtain Certification
While certification is not always a legal requirement to work as a surgical technologist, it is highly recommended and often required by employers. Becoming certified demonstrates that you have met the national standards for surgical technologists and have the necessary skills to perform the job effectively.
In the U.S., the most widely recognized certification for surgical technologists is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Here’s how you can obtain the CST certification:
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the CST exam, you must have completed an accredited surgical technology program.
- Certification Exam: The CST exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering various topics, including surgical procedures, aseptic technique, and patient care. You must pass this exam to become certified.
- Maintaining Certification: After earning the CST credential, surgical technologists must complete continuing education and recertify every four years to maintain their certification. The NBSTSA offers a range of continuing education opportunities to help surgical technologists stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
4. Gain Work Experience
Once you complete your education and obtain certification, the next step is to gain practical experience in the field. Most surgical technologists begin their careers working in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, or physician’s offices. Entry-level positions allow you to refine your skills and build your resume while working under the supervision of more experienced surgical technologists.
As you gain more experience, you may have the opportunity to specialize in certain types of surgeries (e.g., cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurosurgery), which can lead to higher pay and greater job satisfaction.
5. Pursue Specialization (Optional)
Although most surgical technologists work in a general capacity, there are opportunities to specialize in specific areas of surgery. Specializing allows surgical techs to become experts in particular fields and increases their job opportunities and earning potential. Some common specializations include:
- Cardiovascular Surgery: Surgical techs who specialize in cardiovascular surgery assist in procedures involving the heart and blood vessels.
- Orthopedic Surgery: Techs specializing in orthopedic surgery work with surgeons performing procedures on bones, joints, and muscles.
- Neurosurgery: Neurosurgical technologists assist with surgeries on the brain and nervous system.
- Labor and Delivery: Surgical technologists can also specialize in assisting with labor and delivery, particularly with cesarean sections.
To specialize, surgical technologists often pursue additional certifications or training in the area of interest. Many professional organizations, such as the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA), offer specialized certifications for techs who wish to focus on certain types of surgeries.
6. Stay Current with Industry Trends
The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and surgical technologists must keep up with the latest technological advancements and surgical techniques. Continuing education is an essential part of a surgical technologist’s career. Whether through formal courses, online webinars, or workshops, it’s important to stay informed about new developments in surgical procedures, equipment, and patient care.
Essential Skills for Surgical Technologists
To succeed as a surgical technologist, it’s important to develop a set of key skills:
- Attention to Detail: Surgical techs must be precise and meticulous to ensure that surgeries are performed safely and correctly.
- Manual Dexterity: Working with surgical instruments and assisting during procedures requires excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- Communication: Surgical technologists must communicate effectively with surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals to ensure smooth operations and patient safety.
- Physical Stamina: Surgical techs often work long hours and must be on their feet for extended periods. Physical stamina is crucial for success in this field.
- Problem-Solving: During surgeries, complications may arise, and surgical techs must be able to think on their feet and adapt to changes quickly.
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical technologist is an excellent career choice for those passionate about healthcare and helping others. With the right education, certification, and experience, surgical techs can build a rewarding career while contributing directly to the success of life-saving surgeries. Whether you work in a hospital, outpatient surgery center, or as part of a specialized surgical team, your role as a surgical technologist will make a significant impact on patient care and safety. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can embark on a fulfilling and promising career as a surgical technologist.
If you are considering a career in surgical technology, remember that it requires dedication, precision, and a commitment to lifelong learning. But for those who are up for the challenge, the rewards are both professionally and personally satisfying.
