If you want to become a part of the surgical team assisting in surgical procedures, you have 2 great options depending on your interest.
If you want an indirect involvement in a surgical procedure, without touching blood, then surgical tech is best suited for you.
If you don’t mind touching blood and want a direct involvement in surgical procedures assisting the surgeons, then a career as a surgical assistant, or surgical first assistant is best suited for you.
But is that the only difference? No!
So, in this article, we’ll discuss about the differences between a Surgical Tech and a Surgical Assistant.
But before that, we’ll discuss in-depth about the surgical assistants, their duties, skills, specializations, and how you can become one.
Let’s get started!
What is a Surgical Assistant?
A Surgical Assistant, or SFA, is a medical professional who plays a vital role in the operating room by assisting surgeons during surgical procedures.
They provide hands-on support and manage instruments to assist the surgeon throughout the operation.
Their primary responsibility is to ensure that surgeries are carried out efficiently and safely by assisting the surgeon during the operation by passing instruments, holding retractors, managing suction, helping close incisions, and applying dressings after the surgery.
What do they do? Duties
Surgical Assistants ensure that the surgery runs smoothly and safely, supporting the surgeon and enhancing the overall efficiency of the surgical team.
Here are the duties:
Preparation for Surgery
Surgical Assistants ensure all surgical instruments and the operating area are properly sterilized to maintain a sterile environment. They set up surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies before the surgery begins.
Assisting During Surgery
During surgical procedures, surgical assistants pass the instruments and supplies to the surgeon. They hold and position retractors to expose the surgical area, providing the surgeon with a clear view and access.
They also manage the suction devices and sponging blood or fluids to keep the surgical site clean and visible. They manipulate the patient’s tissues to assist the surgeon in making precise cuts and sutures.
Patient Care
They position the patient correctly on the operating table to provide the surgeon with the best access. They also observe the patient’s vital signs and condition during surgery to ensure stability.
Post-Surgery Responsibilities
After surgery, Surgical Assistants assist surgeons with closing incisions and applying dressings or bandages to the surgical site.
While after surgery, they record details of the surgical procedure, including the types of instruments used and the duration of the surgery.
Read:
-> What Does a Surgical Tech Do?
Skills Of a Surgical Assistant
A Surgical Assistant must possess a combination of technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Here are the key skills essential for a successful career as a Surgical Assistant:
- Knowledge of surgical instruments and their proper use.
- Proficiency in operating room procedures and protocols.
- Skill in handling delicate instruments and tissues while assisting surgeons in surgical procedures.
- Ability to understand and follow instructions from the surgeon quickly.
- Quick decision-making skills to support the surgeon as needed.
- Effective verbal communication to collaborate with the surgical team.
- Ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
Specializations
As a surgical assistant, you have the option to specialize in various areas of surgical assistance.
Some of these specializations include:
- General Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Cardiac Surgery
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Plastic Surgery
- Urology
- And many more.
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-> Is Surgical Tech School Hard?
Surgical Tech Vs Surgical Assistant
Surgical technologists and surgical assistants, both play crucial roles in the operating room, but their responsibilities and levels of training differ significantly.
Surgical Technologists focus primarily on maintaining a sterile environment and providing essential support to the surgical team.
While, the Surgical Assistants have more advanced training, including direct involvement in surgical procedures, and performing tasks that go beyond the scope of surgical technologists.
Here are the key differences:
Interest and Goals
If you prefer to support surgical procedures without directly handling blood, a career as a surgical technologist might be more appealing.
If you’re interested in directly assisting surgeons during procedures, a career as a surgical assistant is a suitable choice.
Education and Training
Surgical Technologists typically require a diploma, certificate, or associate degree in surgical technology. Entry into these programs usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
Surgical Assistants need to complete a more in-depth program in surgical assisting, which can lead to certification. These programs require a high school diploma or equivalent and include advanced, specialized training.
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Certification
Surgical Technologists, after completing their program, can choose to become Certified Surgical Technologists. While certification is not always mandatory, it is preferred or required by many employers and can be obtained through organizations like the NBSTSA, AHA, or NCCT.
While Surgical Assistants must become certified as Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFA) after completing their program. Certification can be obtained through bodies like the NBSTSA, ABSA, or NSAA.
Roles and Responsibilities
Surgical Technologists prepare the operating room, arrange surgical equipment and supplies, and ensure a sterile environment. They assist surgeons and nurses by passing instruments, handling specimens, and maintaining the sterile field during surgeries.
Surgical Assistants take on more advanced duties such as suturing, clamping blood vessels, handling tissues, and providing exposure to the surgical site. They actively assist in surgery and perform specific surgical tasks under the surgeon’s supervision.
Scope of Practice
Surgical Technologists focus on maintaining the sterile field and supporting the surgical team without performing surgical procedures or making incisions.
Surgical Assistants have a wider scope of practice, actively participating in surgical procedures, performing tasks, and sometimes making incisions under the surgeon’s supervision.
Earning Potential
According to the BLS salary data from May 2023, the average annual salary for surgical technologists is $60,610, with an hourly rate of around $29.
While, the BLS reports that the average annual salary for surgical assistants is $59,160, with an hourly rate of around $28.
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-> Surgical Tech Job Description
How To Become a Surgical Assistant?
A Surgical Assistant is an essential member of the surgical team, providing crucial support to surgeons and ensuring that surgical procedures are conducted smoothly and safely.
Becoming a Surgical Assistant involves several steps, including education, training, certification, and gaining hands-on experience.
Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1 -> Possess a High School Diploma
The first step in your journey is to complete high school or obtain a GED. Focus on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy, which will provide a strong foundation for your future studies.
Step 2 -> Enroll in a Surgical Assisting Program
While enrolling in a surgical assisting program you need to make sure that the program is accredited. The surgical assisting programs are typically associate degree programs and provide in-depth training in surgical procedures, patient management, and advanced surgical techniques. They take 2 years to complete.
Step 3 -> Gain Hands-On Experience
After completing your program, hands-on experience is critical for developing the skills and confidence needed to excel as a Surgical Assistant.
You should work in various surgical settings to gain diverse experience. This can include hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics.
Step 4 -> Obtain Certification
Once you complete your surgical assisting program, obtaining certification is crucial. Getting certified proves that you have demonstrated your competence and it enhances your job prospects.
Here are the common certifications:
Certified Surgical First Assistant – The CSFA is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Surgical Assistant Certified – The SA-C is offered by the American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA).
Certified Surgical Assistant – The CSA is offered by the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA).
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Step 5 -> Continue Education and Maintain Certification
Surgical Assistants must participate in continuing education to keep their skills up-to-date and maintain their certification. For continuing education, you can attend workshops, seminars, and additional training courses.
By following these steps, you can embark on a rewarding career that plays a vital role in the success of surgical procedures and the overall healthcare system.
Step 6 -> Seek Job Opportunities
After completing your education, training, and certification, it’s time to start seeking job opportunities. Look for positions in hospitals, surgical centers, and specialty clinics.
But, don’t forget to tailor your resume to highlight your skills, experience, and certifications, and prepare for interviews to showcase your expertise as a Surgical Assistant.
Networking with healthcare professionals, joining professional associations like the Association of Surgical Assistants (ASA), and attending job fairs can help you find job openings.
Become a Surgical Tech Faster
Becoming a Surgical Tech involves education, certification, hands-on experience, and key skills.
To get job-ready faster, it’s important to find the right training program that helps you achieve these requirements in a faster time.
The right training program will ensure you get the education, experience, certification, and skills needed to excel in the field. This will also set you apart from others.
Here’s a program designed to make you job-ready faster and help you stand out from the competition.
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-> How To Become A Surgical Tech?
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Preppy’s Surgical Technologist Certification Program
Preppy’s program offers a thorough education that’s entirely online, accredited, and geared towards preparing you for certification as a Surgical Technologist.
Key Features:
Accredited, Online, and Self-Paced
Preppy’s program is accredited and 100% online, allowing you to complete the coursework at your own speed. This flexibility is ideal for adults with other commitments like work or family, making it easier to manage your education alongside your responsibilities.
Externship Opportunities
One of the standout features of Preppy’s program is the inclusion of externship opportunities at a healthcare facility near you. These hands-on experiences are essential for developing practical skills and fulfilling the requirements for certification.
Certification Exam Preparation
The program prepares you for certification exams, such as the NCST, and TS-C exam. This ensures that you are well-prepared to pass the exam and meet the certification requirements necessary for many healthcare jobs.
Faster Completion
You don’t need to spend years completing this program. You can start today, finish the coursework, and be job-ready within 4 months.
Affordable Pricing
Preppy’s Surgical Technologist program is very affordable, costing just $1599, which includes all expenses. This makes the program accessible to more students and helps reduce the financial strain associated with traditional full-time programs.
Bonus Offer
Currently, there’s a bonus offer where you receive a free laptop to assist with your studies. This laptop is yours to keep even after you complete the course.
24/7 Support
Preppy provides round-the-clock support, giving you access to instructors, tutors, and technical help whenever you need it. This continuous support enhances your learning experience and helps you tackle any challenges that arise during the program.
So, if you’re looking to become a Surgical Technologist, Preppy’s Surgical Technologist Certification Program is an excellent choice, offering everything you need to start your career successfully.
In Conclusion
We hope this article enlightens you about the differences between a Surgical Tech and a Surgical Assistant.
While both careers are integral to surgical operations, surgical assistants require more advanced training and take on greater responsibilities compared to surgical technologists.
Your choice between these careers will depend on your interest, indirect or direct surgical involvement, the level of responsibility you seek, and your willingness to undergo additional education and certification.
Finally, if you are looking to start your Surgical Tech career faster, then Preppy’s Surgical Tech Certification Program is your best bet.
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