Are you passionate about healthcare and looking for a rewarding career in the medical field? Becoming a surgical technician could be the perfect fit for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about pursuing a career as a surgical technician.
What is a Surgical Technician?
A surgical technician, also known as a scrub tech or operating room technician, is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and handing instruments to the surgeon during surgery. Surgical technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the operating room.
Education and Training
In order to become a surgical technician, you will need to complete a formal education program. Most surgical technicians complete a certificate or diploma program, which typically takes about 1-2 years to complete. These programs include coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, and surgical techniques. Some surgical technicians also choose to pursue an associate’s degree in surgical technology, which may take 2-4 years to complete.
Certification
While certification is not always required to work as a surgical technician, becoming certified can help you stand out in the job market and advance your career. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which requires passing an exam and completing continuing education requirements to maintain certification.
Job Outlook and Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technicians is projected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020. Surgical technicians can find employment in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and physician offices.
Now that you have all the information you need to become a surgical technician, it’s time to take the next steps towards pursuing your dream career. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experience as a surgical technician, feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!