A career as a surgical technologist, often referred to as a surgical tech, can be a rewarding choice for those interested in healthcare and the medical field. Surgical techs play a crucial role in the operating room, working closely with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that surgeries are carried out smoothly and safely. If you’re considering this career path, it’s essential to understand the requirements and steps needed to succeed. So let’s explore the necessary education, certification, experience, skills, and ongoing learning required to build a successful surgical tech career.
1. Formal Surgical Tech Education
Choosing the Right Educational Path
The first step toward becoming a surgical technologist is obtaining the appropriate education. This typically involves enrolling in a surgical tech program that provides the necessary knowledge and skills. There are several educational pathways available, each with its advantages and considerations:
- Associate Degree Program: This is a common route for aspiring surgical techs. Associate degree programs usually take around two years to complete and provide a comprehensive education that covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Graduates of these programs are well-prepared to enter the workforce and often have a competitive edge in the job market.
- Certificate Program: Certificate programs are shorter in duration, often taking about one year to complete. These programs focus on the core competencies needed to perform as a surgical tech and are an excellent option for those looking to enter the workforce quickly. However, they may not provide as broad an education as associate degree programs.
- Online Programs: For those seeking flexibility, online surgical tech programs are an attractive option. These programs can be completed at a faster pace compared to traditional in-person programs, making them ideal for individuals with other commitments, such as work or family. Despite being online, these programs still offer a well-rounded education that includes both theoretical instruction and practical training.
Cost Considerations
The cost of surgical tech education can vary significantly depending on the program type and institution. Traditional in-person programs, such as associate degrees and certificates, typically range from $10,000 to $30,000. While this represents a significant investment, the return on investment in terms of career opportunities and earning potential can be substantial. Online surgical tech courses are often more affordable, providing a cost-effective way to achieve your educational goals.
2. Obtaining a National Certification
The Importance of Certification
Once you have completed your formal education, the next critical step is obtaining national certification. Certification is not always mandatory to work as a surgical tech, but it is highly recommended. Employers prefer candidates who are certified because it demonstrates a high level of competence and commitment to the profession. Certification can significantly enhance your employability and career prospects.
Certification Options
There are several nationally recognized institutions that offer certification exams for surgical technologists. Two of the most prominent are:
- National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT): The NCCT offers the Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C) credential, which is widely recognized in the healthcare industry. To obtain this certification, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge and skills in surgical technology.
- American Allied Health: This organization also provides certification for surgical technologists, offering a similar level of recognition as the NCCT. The certification process involves passing an exam that covers various aspects of surgical technology.
Benefits of Certification
Being a certified surgical technologist (CST) offers several advantages. It assures employers that you have met a national standard of excellence and are qualified to perform the duties of a surgical tech. Moreover, certification can lead to better job opportunities, higher pay, and the potential for career advancement. As you gain more experience, you may also pursue advanced certifications to further enhance your credentials.
3. Gaining Clinical Experience
The Value of Hands-On Training
While formal education and certification are essential, gaining clinical experience is equally important for a successful career as a surgical tech. Clinical experience allows you to apply the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in a real-world setting, working alongside experienced professionals in the operating room.
Externships: A Gateway to Experience
One of the best ways to gain clinical experience is through an externship. Many surgical tech programs include an externship component, where students are placed in a local healthcare facility to work under the supervision of experienced surgical technologists. During an externship, you’ll have the opportunity to assist with surgeries, prepare the operating room, and interact with patients and other healthcare professionals.
Externships are invaluable for several reasons:
- Hands-On Experience: They provide a firsthand look at what it’s like to work as a surgical tech, helping you build confidence and competence in your role.
- Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to network with professionals in the field, which can be beneficial when seeking employment after graduation.
- Enhanced Employability: Employers value candidates with practical experience, and completing an externship can make you a more attractive job candidate.
4. Developing the Right Skills
Essential Skills for Surgical Technologists
In addition to education, certification, and experience, successful surgical technologists must possess certain skills that are critical to their role in the operating room. These skills go beyond technical knowledge and are essential for ensuring patient safety and effective teamwork.
- Attention to Detail: Surgical techs must be meticulous in their work, ensuring that all instruments are properly sterilized and that the operating room is prepared to the highest standards. Even the smallest oversight can have serious consequences, so attention to detail is paramount.
- Infection Control: A thorough understanding of infection control procedures is crucial. Surgical techs are responsible for maintaining a sterile environment during surgery, which involves strict adherence to protocols for sterilizing equipment, handling instruments, and protecting patients from infection.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Surgical techs are part of a larger surgical team that includes surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. Effective teamwork and collaboration are essential for ensuring that surgeries are performed smoothly and successfully. This requires excellent communication skills and the ability to work harmoniously with others under pressure.
- Communication: Clear and concise communication is vital in the operating room. Surgical techs must be able to follow instructions accurately and communicate effectively with other team members. Miscommunication can lead to errors, so strong communication skills are a must.
- Stress Management: The operating room can be a high-stress environment, particularly during complex or emergency surgeries. Surgical techs must be able to manage stress effectively, remaining calm and focused even in challenging situations. This is essential for ensuring patient safety and the smooth execution of surgical procedures.
Building These Skills
Many of these skills are developed during your training program and clinical experience. However, it’s also important to continue honing these skills throughout your career. Participating in continuing education courses, seeking feedback from colleagues, and reflecting on your experiences can all help you grow as a surgical tech.
5. Continuing Education for Career Enhancement
The Importance of Lifelong Learning
Even after you’ve completed your education, obtained certification, and gained experience, the journey doesn’t stop there. The field of surgical technology is constantly evolving, with new techniques, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly. To stay current and maintain your certification, continuing education is essential.
Maintaining Certification
Most certification bodies require surgical technologists to renew their certification periodically, typically every few years. This renewal process often involves earning continuing education (CE) hours. CE courses allow you to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field and continue to improve your skills.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Continuing education is also key to career advancement. As you gain experience and continue learning, you may have the opportunity to take on more advanced roles within the surgical team, such as a surgical first assistant or a supervisor. Additionally, pursuing advanced certifications can open doors to specialized areas of surgical technology, such as cardiovascular or neurosurgical tech positions.
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How To Start Your Surgical Tech Career
A career as a surgical technologist offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. By following the essential steps of obtaining formal education, gaining certification, acquiring clinical experience, developing key skills, and committing to continuing education, you can build a successful and fulfilling career as a surgical tech. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards—both personal and professional—are well worth the effort. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance in your career, the path to success as a surgical tech is clear and achievable with dedication and perseverance.
Become a Surgical Tech with The Preppy Method
If the traditional pathway to becoming a surgical technologist seems daunting, there’s a more efficient and cost-effective alternative: Preppy’s online surgical tech programs. In fact, this method allows you to obtain the necessary training, surgical tech certification, and clinical experience in just a few months, without the high costs or long time commitments associated with CAAHEP-accredited programs.
Also read: Surgical Tech Degree – Do You Need It?
About:
Preppy was founded by higher education expert, Grant Aldrich, who’s work on college affordability and accessibility has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg Businessweek, Business Insider, American Express, AOL, MSN, Thrive Global, Reader’s Digest, Inside Higher Ed, Evolllution, EducationDive, and nearly 100 radio shows and podcasts.
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