How to Become a Surgical Technologist

Are you looking for a new career in a rapidly expanding, lucrative field? Consider becoming a surgical technologist. Known popularly as scrubs, surgical technologists are one of the most in-demand professionals in the medical community. The basic duty of a surgical tech is preparing patients for surgery and assisting the surgeon in the operating room. For every one surgeon, there are at least 5 surgical technologists behind the scenes, keeping everything running smoothly. Unlike many other positions in the medical field, it is easy to become a surgical technologist with little or no experience in health care. After less than 2 years of training, you will be eligible to sit for a the national certification exam and ready to work in any state in the country. This career path offers job security, flexibility, and personal fulfillment. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to make a quick leap into a new career path.

The First Steps

Do you think you have what it takes to be a surgical tech? It’s crucial that candidates for potential surgical technology programs have both cool heads and sturdy stomachs. A surgical tech will be expected to know the workings of anatomy and physiology, perform efficiently under pressure, and be able to watch an incision without shuddering. Though many of the routine duties of a surgical technologist include mild tasks such as sterilizing instruments and preparing patients for surgery, a surgical tech may be asked to stitch up a wound or handle tissue.

If you possess these characteristics, you’re ready to research what kind of surgical tech program will be best for you.

Certificate, Diploma, or Degree?

There are several avenues to explore once you have decided to become a surgical technologist.

If you have a high school diploma or a GED, you can pursue a degree in surgical technology. Earning a degree takes an average of 2-years and includes a more general curriculum, including classes in related subjects such as math and psychology alongside surgical tech training. Tuition can be pricey depending on the program, but reputable schools will offer financial aid and scholarships to students.

Both a diploma and a certificate are shorter, less expensive routes to becoming a surgical tech. The average time of completion is 9 to 12-months, but don’t be fooled by the brisk time frame. The training you will receive in all the programs is similarly rigorous and will give you the tools you need to become a successful surgical technologist.

Finding a School

Locating a school with the perfect surgical technology program for you is easier than ever. Check online for a list of top surgical tech schools. Though there are surgical tech programs all over the country, most students choose to attend a program in their own area. The beauty of pursuing a career in surgical technology is the flexibility: once graduated, you can work in nearly any state in the country.

Of paramount importance when exploring your options is investigating whether or not the school is accredited. Accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) is required for graduates to sit for the national certification exam. Passing this exam is a prestigious credential that will help you in your career as a surgical technologist. Reputable school will have accreditation.

If you are still unsure about where to go, try speaking with students and administrators. They can give you a better picture of the character of the program than brochures alone. Ask about scholarships, class activities, and internship opportunities.

What to Expect In Training

Once you’ve enrolled in a surgical tech program, you’ll be responsible for attending classes that will prepare you for your new career. Whether or not you have a background in medicine, it’s important that surgical technology students be versed in basic math and science. Attend a few college classes before enrolling if you feel that your skills are rusty.

All surgical tech schools will offer classes in physiology and anatomy, though they may vary in focus. You should also expect courses in microbiology, pharmacology, aseptic techniques, surgical procedures, patience care, medical ethics and terminology. Some programs may include general career courses covering administration and management. The best training will prepare you to think critically and stay cool under pressure.

Externships

Many reputable schools offer students the opportunity to participate in externships, supervised experience working as a surgical technologist in a local hospital. Participation in such a program is a great way to hone the skills you’ve learned through in-class instruction and prepare yourself for working professionally as a surgical tech. An externship will not only give you crucial hands-on knowledge, but will look terrific on your resume and may provide you with a letter of recommendation that will help you as you begin your new career.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Tech

As a graduate with a surgical technology credential, you are ready to start working right away. If you’ve graduated from an accredited school, you have the option of taking the national certification exam, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Once you’ve passed the exam, you are allowed to use the designation CST – Certified Surgical Technologist. The American College of Surgeons strongly recommends that surgical techs be certified and many surgeons prefer to work with certified techs. Candidates who have national certification are more competitive in the job market.

It is possible to take the examination in the last month of school or within a year of graduation. Many surgical techs choose to work for a year and then take the examination. The certification must be renewed every 4 years and requires that surgical techs undergo further education as new techniques are formulated and medical advances are made.
Beginning Work

If the program you attended included participation in an externship, you have a great start on finding a job. Many hospitals ask externs to stay on after the culmination of the program. Your school will also have a career center that can assist you in finding a position as a surgical technologist. Check online employment classifieds for other leads. The popularity and growth of the field means that there will be several openings posted daily for qualified surgical technologists in many hospitals and offices around the country. Happy hunting!