A surgical technologist is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during medical procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and helping to position patients.
They are trained through a program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in anatomy, medical terminology, surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care.
Here is how long it takes to become a surgical tech.
Surgical Tech Schools Near Me
Graduates of the in-class or online surgical tech programs are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.
The job is challenging and rewarding, with high demand in the healthcare industry, and I can work in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, and outpatient surgery centers.
The career outlook for surgical technologists is expected to grow in the coming years due to the increasing demand for healthcare services.
Surgical Technologist Program Curriculum
A surgical technologist program combines classroom instruction and hands-on training that prepares students to assist surgeons in various medical procedures.
The curriculum covers various topics essential for a surgical technologist’s role, including anatomy, medical terminology, surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care.
The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work effectively in the surgical environment.
Anatomy classes cover the structure and function of the human body, including the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.
Medical terminology classes teach the language of medicine, which is crucial for effective communication with other healthcare professionals.
Surgical procedures classes provide students with an understanding of the different types of surgeries that may be performed and the instruments and equipment used.
Sterilization techniques classes teach students how to properly clean and disinfect surgical instruments to prevent the spread of infection.
Patient care classes provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to provide safe and effective patient care before, during, and after surgery.
Surgical Tech School Admission Requirements
Admission to a surgical technologist program is the first step in becoming a surgical technologist.
The requirements for admission vary depending on the school, but a high school diploma or GED is generally required. Additionally, some programs may require a passing score on an entrance exam.
The entrance exam usually tests the applicant’s knowledge in basic sciences such as biology and chemistry, as well as math and English. These exams are designed to ensure applicants have the basic knowledge required to succeed in the program.
Some programs may also require specific prerequisites, such as introductory biology and chemistry classes. These classes are designed to give students a foundation in the sciences, which will be crucial to their success in the program.
Additionally, some programs may require that students have a certain number of hours of volunteer or paid work experience in a healthcare setting to ensure they have a solid understanding of the field.
It’s important to note that each program has different admission requirements, and prospective students need to research and compare programs to find the one that best suits their needs and goals.
Moreover, it’s essential to check the program’s accreditation, as most states require surgical technologist programs to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Certification and Licensure
A surgical technologist program is a post-secondary educational program that prepares individuals for a career as a surgical technologist.
After completing such a program, graduates become eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
The CST exam is a rigorous test that measures the knowledge and skills required to work as a surgical technologist. It covers anatomy, medical terminology, surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care.
Passing the CST exam is a requirement for certification, and most states require certification to practice as a surgical technologist.
This certification is a way to ensure that surgical technologists have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe, high-quality care to patients.
The certificate is a testament to the individual’s dedication and commitment to their profession and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the field.
The certification process is beneficial not only for the individual but also for the employers and the patients.
Employers who hire certified surgical technologists can rest assured that they are hiring qualified individuals who have passed a rigorous exam.
Patients can also benefit from having a certified surgical technologist in the operating room, as they have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the field and are committed to upholding the profession’s standards.
Career Outlook
Surgical technologists are an essential part of the operating room team.
They are responsible for preparing and maintaining the surgical environment and assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during surgery.
The demand for surgical technologists is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
The primary reason for this growth is the increasing number of surgeries being performed, as well as the aging population.
As more people reach retirement age, there will be a greater need for surgical procedures to treat age-related conditions. Additionally, advances in medical technology and treatments also contribute to the growth in surgeries.
The median annual salary for surgical technologists in the United States is $48,300. This is a competitive salary, and those with experience and certification can earn even higher wages.
Surgical technologists typically work in hospitals and may work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts.
Career Paths
Surgical technologists assist surgeons during medical procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and helping to position patients.
They are trained through a program that includes classroom instruction and hands-on training in anatomy, medical terminology, surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care.
SEE: Surgical Tech Specialties
Graduates of the program are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam and can work in various settings such as hospitals, clinics, and outpatient surgery centers.
The career outlook for surgical technologists is expected to grow in the coming years due to the increasing demand for healthcare services.
In summary, a surgical technologist program is a post-secondary educational program that prepares individuals for a career as a surgical technologist.
The curriculum includes classroom instruction and hands-on training, and the program typically takes nine months to two years to complete.
Graduates of the program are eligible to take the CST certification exam, which is required for most states to practice as a surgical technologists.
The career outlook for surgical technologists is positive, with an expected growth of 7% from 2020 to 2030.