Surgical Technology |
Who Are Surgical Technologists?Is This Program in My Area?What Do Surgical Technologists Do? Surgical technologists help prepare the operating rooms for surgeries by setting up sterile and nonsterile surgical instruments and equipment. Surgical techs work directly with the patients to prepare them for the surgical procedure. Patient surgical preparation can include washing, shaving, and disinfecting incision sites. Surgical techs then transport patients to the operating room, position them on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical drapes. Surgical technologists assist the surgeons during the procedures by passing instruments and other sterile supplies and performing minor tasks like cutting sutures or applying bandages. Surgical Technology Training Those interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology must complete surgical technology programs offered by community and junior colleges, vocational schools and universities and earn a surgical technology degree. Surgical technology schools offer several surgical technology courses designed to make students proficient in this important profession. These surgical technology courses include instrument sterilization techniques, anatomy, physiology, microbiology and medical terminology. Surgical technology programs tend to last from 9 to 24 months. The duration depends on the surgical technology school and the surgical technology degree offered. Most students receive surgical technology certification, a diploma or an associate degree. Some students prefer choosing a surgical technology school that that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). Surgical Technology Certification Certification for surgical techs is voluntary but most employers prefer to hire those who have received their surgical technology certification. Surgical technology certification for can be obtained through several organizations; including National Center for Competency Testing or the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist. To be granted this certification the candidate must graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program and pass a national surgical technology certification examination. Once accomplished the title Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) may be used to underscore their credentials. Surgical technology certification must be renewed every 4 to 5 years. Surgical Technologists Job Prospects Most surgical technologists are employed by directly by hospitals. A growing number of surgical technologists are finding employment in outpatient surgical centers, doctor’s offices and oral surgeon offices. Some surgical techs are using their experience to move up the ladder into hospital administration. Others join insurance companies or find lucrative careers in surgical equipment sales. Surgical Technology Job Security and Salary People always need healthcare and surgery so there appears to be no decline in sight for the demand in skilled surgical technologists. In fact, the Bureau of Labor estimates that over the next eight years the demand will grow 24 percent. Because of high demand, and the training surgical technology schools are providing, surgical techs are earning salaries between $25,000 and $51,000. |