If you want to become successful as a Surgical Tech then joining the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) might be the perfect step for you.
AST serves as a hub for surgical tech, and becoming a member is a strategic move to elevate your career, and connect with a supportive professional community.
In this article, we’ll discuss about the AST, the various types of membership they offer, the benefits you get as a member, and how you can join the AST and get their membership.
Moreover, we’ll share a surgical tech training program that is recommended by industry veterans.
This program is insanely affordable, finishes faster in just 4 months, makes you certification-ready, and gives out an accredited university certificate, so you can join the AST.
Let’s get started!
What is a Surgical Tech?
A Surgical Technologist, often referred to as a Surgical Tech or Operating Room Technician, is an essential member of the surgical team.
Surgical Techs are trained professionals who possess specialized knowledge and skills in surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care.
They play a crucial role in the operating room, ensuring that surgeries are performed smoothly and efficiently.
They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to provide high-quality patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures.
To become a Surgical Tech, individuals typically complete a formal accredited education program and obtain certification, such as the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) or the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).
Duties of a Surgical Tech
Surgical Techs are indispensable in the healthcare industry, providing critical support to ensure that surgical procedures are conducted safely and efficiently.
They maintain a sterile environment in the operating room and assist the surgical team throughout the surgical process.
Here are their duties:
Preoperative Duties
Before surgery, surgical techs are responsible for preparing the operating room. This involves sterilizing equipment and ensuring that all necessary instruments and supplies are available.
They arrange surgical instruments and supplies in an organized manner for easy access during the procedure.
Additionally, they assist in positioning the patient on the operating table and draping them with sterile covers to maintain a sterile field.
Intraoperative Duties
During surgery, Surgical Techs play a vital role in assisting the surgeon and the surgical team. They hand instruments and supplies to the surgeon as needed, anticipate the needs of the surgical team, and help maintain a sterile environment.
They also assist with tasks such as suctioning, retracting tissue, and cutting sutures. Their focus and responsiveness contribute to the success of the surgery.
Postoperative Duties
After the surgical procedure, surgical techs disinfect and sterilize the operating room, and make it ready it for the next surgery.
They help apply dressings to the surgical site, transfer patients to the recovery area, and ensure that all instruments and equipment are properly cleaned, sterilized, and restocked.
This preparation ensures that the operating room is ready for the next patient.
Read:
-> What Does a Surgical Tech Do?
What is the AST?
The Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) is a professional organization that represents and supports surgical technologists in the United States.
Established in 1969, the AST aims to enhance the profession through education, certification, and advocacy, ensuring that surgical technologists have the knowledge and skills required to provide the highest quality of care in the operating room.
Moreover, the AST provides a range of educational resources, including continuing education courses, webinars, and conferences, to help surgical technologists stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field.
Plus, the AST advocates for the recognition and advancement of the surgical technologist profession. And, it also provides a platform for networking and professional growth, allowing members to connect with peers, share knowledge, and advance their careers.
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-> Is Surgical Tech School Hard?
AST Membership Types
The Association of Surgical Technologists is the sole organization dedicated to the advancement of the surgical technology profession.
It has around 80,000 surgical techs nationwide as members. It offers a range of membership categories designed to meet the diverse needs of its members.
If you are an experienced surgical tech, a student currently enrolled in an accredited surgical technology program, or an educator in the field, you can get the membership.
There are various membership categories to accommodate the diverse needs of individuals within the surgical technology profession. Each membership type is tailored to provide specific benefits and resources.
Here are the different types of AST membership:
Active Membership
Membership Fees – $80
To be eligible for active membership, you must have passed the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) national certifying examination in surgical technology and maintain certification as defined by the NBSTSA.
Active members are the only members with voting rights and a voice in the organization. If a member’s certification lapses or expires, they will revert to associate status until they regain certification currency.
Associate Membership
Membership Fees – $80
Associate membership is available to several groups of individuals. This includes those who have passed the national certifying examination but have not maintained certification currency as defined by the NBSTSA.
The pre-1977 practitioners with lifetime certification who have not updated their certification, and students or graduates of a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program.
Additionally, surgical technologists who are not currently certified by the NBSTSA but hold certifications like TS-C by NCCT or NCST by AAH are also eligible in this category.
Instructors and practitioners who teach in CAAHEP-accredited programs, including RNs and non-CST surgical assistants, can also join as associate members. Associate members have a voice in the organization but do not have voting rights.
Affiliate Membership
Membership Fees – $80
Affiliate membership is open to any individual or organization that wishes to affiliate with AST. They have a voice but no voting rights.
This category includes OR purchasing managers, OR materials managers, OR managers, operating department practitioners, central sterile supply techs, anesthesia techs, cardiac cath techs, labor and delivery techs, auto transfusionists, aides (UAPs), employers, and manufacturers/sales representatives of healthcare-related companies.
Retired/Disabled Membership
Membership Fees – $45
Retired/Disabled membership is designed for individuals who are retired or permanently disabled. Retired members must be 67 years or older and provide documentation proving their age.
Disabled members must submit official documentation of their permanent disability and inability to work.
Retired members with maintained certification as defined by the NBSTSA have a voice and a vote, while those who have not maintained certification have a voice but no vote.
Also Read:
-> How To Become A Surgical Tech?
-> Pros And Cons Of Being A Surgical Tech
-> How To Become A Certified Surgical Tech?
-> How Long Does It Take To Become A Surgical Tech?
Why Surgical Techs Should Become a Member of the AST?
Membership in AST is not just about joining an organization; it’s about becoming part of a community dedicated to excellence in surgical technology.
By joining AST, surgical technologists gain access to invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and a collective voice advocating for their profession and patient safety.
Here’s why surgical techs should consider joining:
Legislative Voice
Membership in AST includes automatic enrollment in your state assembly, providing a platform to advocate for surgical technologist certification and patient safety initiatives.
By participating in state assembly activities, members can access continuing education credits (CEs) and vote for their state assembly board of directors if they hold active membership as defined by the NBSTSA.
Being part of the grassroots network ensures your voice is heard on important legislative matters affecting your profession.
Members-Only Benefits
AST membership grants access to a plethora of exclusive resources. Members can take advantage of substantial discounts on continuing education opportunities, which are crucial for maintaining certification and staying updated with the latest industry practices.
Online CE courses are readily available through AST’s Online CE Resource Center, and credits are seamlessly transferred to the NBSTSA, saving members the $200 non-member CE processing fee.
Additionally, members receive an automatic recording of AST CE credits, whether earned online or at AST-sponsored events.
Communications
Members receive a monthly subscription to “The Surgical Technologist” journal and monthly E-news updates, keeping them informed about the latest developments in the field.
AST’s e-newsletters and other communications provide valuable insights into legislative updates and industry trends.
Career-focused AST Guidelines and access to professional growth opportunities further enhance members’ knowledge and skills.
Professional Growth Opportunities
AST membership opens doors to various professional development opportunities.
Members can explore AST’s Recommended Clinical Ladder, engage in volunteering and networking activities, and pursue leadership roles by serving on the AST Board of Directors or State Assembly Board of Directors.
National committee participation and scholarship opportunities for students and CSTs are also available.
The AST career center provides a platform for members to post resumes and discover job openings, facilitating career advancement.
Read More:
-> Surgical Tech Job Description
Discounts
Members enjoy significant savings on AST events, such as the national conference, Educators Conference, and hands-on educational sessions.
Discounts through partnering organizations extend to a range of services, including auto, home, and renters’ insurance, as well as individual occupational accident and liability insurance.
Additionally, members benefit from discounts on AST products, enhancing their professional toolkit at reduced costs.
How To Become an AST Member?
Becoming a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) is a strategic move for anyone in the field of surgical technology.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to become an AST member:
Step 1 -> Complete a Surgical Tech Program
Your journey begins with completing a surgical technology program. These accredited programs are crucial as they ensure you receive the necessary education and training.
You can find these programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and online platforms.
Online surgical tech programs, in particular, offer flexibility and are recommended by industry veterans for their comprehensive curriculum and convenience.
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In the next section, we’ll discuss an online surgical tech program that is recommended by industry veterans.
Step 2 -> Obtain Certification
After completing your surgical tech program, obtaining certification is essential.
The most recognized certifications are the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) offered by the NCCT and the Certified Surgical Technologist certification from the NBSTSA.
These certifications are important for surgical technologists, as they demonstrate a standardized level of knowledge, and prove your skills and competence.
Also Read:
-> Surgical Tech Certification Online
-> Can You Be A Surgical Tech Without Certification?
Step 3 -> Eligibility Check
Before you proceed with the AST membership application, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the membership categories offered by AST.
Each category has specific requirements, so choose the one that best matches your qualifications and professional status.
Step 4 -> Online Application
Access the official AST website. Navigate to the online membership application section. You can usually find this in the “Join” or “Membership” section of their website.
Step 5 -> Choose A Membership Category
Select the membership category that fits you best based on your qualifications and professional status. Read the category requirements and select a category. An associate membership would also be ideal.
Step 6 -> Fill Out The Application
Complete the membership application form, providing personal information, professional details, and other relevant information. Double-check your entries for accuracy.
Step 7 -> Submit Required Documents
Now, you need to provide supporting documents. For example, if you’re applying for Associate Membership, you have to submit proof of passing an accredited surgical tech program and a national certification like the TS-C by NCCT.
Step 8 -> Payment Of Membership Dues
Now, in this step, you need to make a payment required for the membership in the selected category. Different membership category has different fees. Check that before choosing a category. For example, an Associate AST membership costs $80.
Step 9 -> Wait For Approval
Once you’ve submitted your application AST will review it. Post approval, you are an AST member, ready to get the benefits.
As an AST member, you will gain access to various benefits, including continuing education opportunities, networking, discounts, and more.
Preppy’s Surgical Tech Training Program
Preppy’s Surgical Tech Training Program is crafted to provide aspiring surgical technicians with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for success in this challenging field.
This comprehensive program offers a blend of theoretical learning and practical experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared for certification and employment.
Here are the Key Features:
- You’ll get a 150-year-old, reputed, non-profit, accredited University certificate post-completion of your program.
- The program is 100% online, and self-paced allowing you to study at your own pace, from the comfort of your home.
- With this program, you get TS-C and NCST certification ready.
- Preppy provides hands-on training through externship opportunities at local facilities.
- The program’s fee is affordably priced at $1599 and can be completed in as little as 4 months.
- Lastly, you get 24/7 technical and career support.
Ultimately, Preppy’s Surgical Tech Training Program ticks all the right boxes for those looking to enter the surgical technology field faster and at an affordable price.
Conclusion
We hope this article enlightens you about the AST, the types of membership, the benefits of a member, and how one can join the AST.
Since there are numerous benefits to joining the AST, including access to continuing education, networking opportunities, and a collective voice in advocating for the surgical technology profession.
It’s a strategic move for surgical technologists seeking to advance their careers and stay updated with industry standards.
Finally, if you want to enroll in an online surgical tech program that industry veterans highly recommend, then check out Preppy’s Surgical Tech Training Program.
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