In today’s economy, it is more important than ever before to enter a well-compensated and reliable career. Fortunately, the continued growth of the healthcare sector has resulted in a rising number of openings for surgical technologists.

This has opened an extremely promising career to a wide variety of individuals, ranging from newly graduated adults entering the job market for the first time to currently employed individuals who are seeking a more rewarding and personally satisfying career in the healthcare industry.

The Duties of Surgical Technicians

Surgical techs assist the surgeon, nurses and other medical professionals in ensuring that patients under their care receive the most effective treatment possible. In general, surgical technologists perform the following duties:

• Prepare the equipment and supplies needed for the surgery. This includes ensuring that they have been properly sterilized before use.

• Before the surgical procedure, the technician will assist in moving the patient to the surgery, and then positioning them in such a way as to make the surgery as easy as possible.

• During the surgical procedure, the technician will pass tools and perform other support functions at the direction of the lead surgeon.

• After the procedure, the surgical tech will assist in moving the patient back to his or her room.

• Finally, the surgical technician will help in cleaning and preparing the operating room for later procedures.

Surgical Tech Specialties

In addition to assisting the surgeon in his or her general duties, some surgical technicians work in specialized fields. A common area of specialization is assisting in weight control and cosmetic surgical procedures, which are usually carried out by private clinics. Other specializations that are available to surgical technicians are assisting with optometric surgery, dental surgery and working in trauma care centers.

Becoming a Surgical Technology

Although many states do not require a surgical technician to obtain an education from an accredited program, those interested in a career as a surgical tech should make certain to attend a program that has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This body ensures that all accredited surgical technologist programs adhere to a very high standard of education. Graduating from an accredited program can improve the salary and career options of the surgical technologist and in fact, most certification programs require the surgical technologist to have graduated from an accredited program.

In most cases, a surgical technologist program takes approximately two years to complete for full-time students. Many program offer part-time schedules for those students who are currently working or otherwise unable to attend classes full-time. Many classes for part-time students are offered in the evening or during the weekend, in order to accommodate the student’s schedule.

Online Surgical Technology Programs

For those students who cannot attend a program in person, many schools offer online surgical technology programs. However, due to the nature of the surgical technologist’s duties, a student cannot take the entire program online.

In general, the following subjects can be completed by online courses:

• Human anatomy and physiology, especially as it relates to the duties of the surgical technician.
• Aseptic techniques to avoid postoperative infections in patients.
• Surgical instruments and procedures.
• Pharmacology, including the symptoms relating to the use of general and local anesthetics.
• The care of patients during, before and after the surgical procedure.
• The practice of medical ethics as they relate to the surgical technician.

Online Programs and Medical Training

While much of the surgical technology program can be handled via online courses, there are aspects of the program that require the students to have direct and supervised experience. This ranges from courses in anatomy to directly assisting surgeons in a supervised training setting. Only by obtaining this direct experience can the student truly prepare him or herself for a career as a surgical technologist.

In many cases, online programs have ties with hospitals or other institutions where surgical procedures are carried out, allowing them to have qualified instructors and surgeons assist the students in preparing for their duties as a surgical technologist. In other cases, internships may be made available for graduates of the online portion of the program, allowing them to be trained as surgical technicians while earning a stipend. In addition, those students who impress their instructors may find employment with the same groups that handled their internships, rather than being forced to seek out employment after their internship is concluded.

Becoming Certified

Finally, graduates of online surgical tech programs can seek to become certified surgical technicians. Certified technicians enjoy better salary and career options. In addition, some states require certification for surgical technicians. In order to become a certified surgical technologist, the technician will usually have to have graduated from an accredited program, pass a competency exam, and in some cases, be able to document working experience as a surgical tech.

Currently, three organizations provide certification for surgical technologists:

• The national Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) allows successful candidates to title themselves: Tech in Surgery-Certified.

• The National Healthcare Association (NHA) certifies individuals as a Certified Operating Room Surgical Technician (CORST).

• Finally, the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offer a certification program that allows the successful candidate to identify him or herself as a certified surgical technologist.

The Benefits of Becoming a Surgical Technologist

Becoming a surgical technician can provide the gateway to a long-term and well-paid career. Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that there are over 90,000 surgical technicians working in the United States. That number is expected to increase by at least 19 percent by 2020, making the career one that shows firm signs of sustained growth. With a median annual salary of nearly $40,000, the surgical technician also enjoys a very competitive salary.

Becoming a surgical technician is an attractive career choice. As a profession, it offers excellent compensation in addition to being highly regarded. For many individuals, becoming a surgical technician is an ideal career choice.

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The Duties of the Surgical Technician

A surgical technician assists the surgeon, nurses and all other personnel in performing the tasks required to ensure a successful surgical procedure. Depending on the nature of the surgery, the surgical tech may work alone or with other technicians. In some cases, a surgical tech may supervise other technicians as part of his or her duties. The most common tasks of a surgical tech include the following:

• Preparing the operating room for use and ensuring that all equipment is in proper condition.

• The surgical technician is in charge of sterilizing equipment and dressings before the operation, in order to prevent the chance of a postoperative infection.

• Transporting the patient to the operating room and then positioning the patient at the direction of the surgeon.

• After the operation, the surgical technician will clean and prepare the operating room for the next surgery.

Where do Surgical Technicians Work?

Surgical technicians work in a variety of institutions, ranging from major hospitals to small practices. With the growing number of elective surgeries that take place in the doctor’s office and outpatient clinics, surgical technicians are finding themselves in increasing demand outside of the traditional hospital setting.

Among the most common facilities where surgical techs may find employment are the following:

• Hospital emergency rooms and trauma care centers.
• Urgent care clinics.
• Dental clinics that perform cosmetic or reconstructive dental surgery.
• Clinics offering elective cosmetic or weight control surgeries.
• Some private physicians will perform minor surgeries in their offices and require the assistance of a surgical tech.

The Current Career Prospects for Surgical Techs

Currently the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected strong growth for this profession. In 2010, over 93,000 surgical technicians were employed in the United States and by 2020, the BLS expects that at least 111,000 will be employed in various capacities. The continuing growth of the number of elderly Americans makes it extremely likely that the need for surgical technicians will continue to grow well past 2020.

Furthermore, the continued growth in the healthcare industry and the retirement of older surgical technologists makes it likely that this field will continue to have a number of vacancies that will have to be filled by newly graduated surgical technicians. This steady and continued demand for surgical techs will ensure that they continue to receive competitive salaries.

How Much Do Surgical Techs Make?

Surgical technicians are well compensated compared to other professions with equivalent duties and educational requirements. The BLS states that the median surgical tech salary is over $39,000 in 2010. However, it is possible for surgical techs to make considerably more, depending on their specific duties, experience and education.

Currently, the surgical technicians that have the highest salaries are employed in outpatient care centers and the offices of physicians. In both cases, their median yearly wage is over $40,000. The highest paid surgical technicians can receive a salary as high as $57,000. In most cases, the highest paid surgical technicians are those with the greatest amount of experience in their field.

Educational Requirements for Surgical Technicians

Becoming a surgical technician requires that the individual complete a surgical technology program. These programs can range in length from several months to two years, depending on the student’s needs and schedule. These programs are offered by a variety of institutions, ranging from community colleges to vocational training centers.

It is very important that the student ensure that his or her program is accredited. Since 2010, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has provided accreditation to surgical technology programs. In order for the CAAHEP to accredit a program, it must demonstrate the highest educational standards. For this reason, many employers will require proof that a potential employee has graduated from an accredited program.

Certificated Surgical Techs and Salaries

One of the most effective methods a surgical tech can use to obtain the best possible salary is to become a certified surgical tech. While not required in all states, a certified surgical tech will enjoy better career prospects and will often be able to command a higher salary. Some organizations may require that surgical techs be certified in order to be eligible for employment.

Becoming a certified surgical technologist requires that the individual have passed an accredited surgical technology program, after which he or she must also take and pass a comprehensive exam that tests the individual’s academic and practical knowledge. Certification is offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), National Board of Surgical Technology (NBST), or the National Healthcare Association (NHA). Surgical technicians intending on pursuing this course should consult with their program or employer in order to determine the correct agency to use for their certification needs.

When asking how much do surgical techs make, it is important to consider their level of education, primary job duties, and whether or not they are certified. In order to have the best possible surgical tech salary, an individual should have graduated from an accredited school, in addition to having become a certified tech. By doing so, a surgical technologist can be assured of a secure, respected and well compensated career.

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The rise in the number of patients requiring various types of elective and non-elective surgical procedures has dramatically increased the demand for various professional medical personnel to assist in providing high quality medical care, whether it is in the context of a hospital operating room or a urgent-care facility that only performs minor surgical procedures.

The surgical technician plays a vital role in any surgical procedure, no matter its type.

What is a Surgical Tech?

A surgical technician helps support the surgeon and other professionals before, during and after a surgical procedure. Depending on the nature of the surgery, there may only be a single surgical technologist present, or he or she may be working as a part of a team. The surgical technologist job description often includes the following duties:

• Preparing for the surgery by ensuring that all equipment is present and has been checked before use.

• Ensuring that all sutures and dressings are present and sterile.

• Assisting the surgeon and any other personnel in dressing for the surgery.

• The surgical technologist will move the patient onto the surgical bed, and assist the surgeon in positioning the patient in order to provide the best possible access during the surgery.

• After the surgery, the surgical tech will assist in moving the patient to a recovery area.

• As part of the post-surgical procedure, surgical techs will clean and restock the operating room in order to prepare it for later use.

• During the surgery, the surgical tech will provide the surgeon and any nurses with the equipment they require to successfully complete the operation.

A surgical tech must also be a very detail oriented and conscientious individual, especially when ensuring that any tools or supplies are properly prepared for use. The surgical tech is a vital part of ensuring that the patient does not suffer a postoperative infection produced via the use of improperly sterilized equipment.

Finally, a surgical technician must be capable of communicating effectively and quickly with his fellow technicians and supervisors. Any operation will require the technician to be able to accurately respond to the surgeon’s requests. This will be especially important for emergency or trauma care operations, where speed can be vital to the successful outcome of the surgery.

Where Are Surgical Techs Employed?

While the traditional view of a surgical tech is of a hospital employee, there are a wide variety of employment options for qualified surgical techs. With the rising popularity of outpatient clinics and urgent care centers, many surgical technologists find themselves assisting in operations that do not occur in a public or private hospital. Among the most common areas of employment for surgical technicians are the following:

• Outpatient clinics for a variety of minor and elective surgical procedures.
• Urgent care clinics and centers.
• Hospital emergency rooms and trauma care centers.
• Doctors’ offices, especially for practices that carry out minor surgical procedures.

Additionally, experienced surgical technologists will often supervise other surgical techs, as well as work with nurses and surgeons to evaluate and develop more effective hospital policies. In some cases, surgical techs may transition to other careers, including becoming registered nurses.

How to Become a Surgical Tech

Surgical techs must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, and successfully complete a program of study in surgical technology. In addition, most states require that a surgical tech be at least 18 years of age.

Surgical tech programs are offered from a variety of institutions, including community colleges, private colleges and vocational programs. The time it takes to become a surgical tech, depending on the student’s schedule, can range from several months to over two years.

Many programs offer part-time and distance learning options for their students, which can be important for individuals who are currently working or who have other demands on their time.

A program in surgical technology educates the student in the following areas:

• Human anatomy and physiology.
• Patient care and safety, especially when moving ill or injured individuals.
• The proper methods used to sterilize and prepare surgical instruments.
• The surgical tech is instructed in the importance of avoiding patient infections and how to respond to them when they do occur.

Accredited Schools

In 2010, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) recognized accredited surgical technologist training programs. Students should verify that their school is currently accredited with the CAAHEP, in order to ensure that their program will be recognized by all states and employers. Additionally, completing an accredited program improves the surgical tech’s career options.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologists

A surgical technologist job description can also include whether or not a certified surgical tech is required. By becoming certified, a technician can improve his or her level of expertise in the field of surgical technology.

Certification is currently offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology (NBST), the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) and the National Healthcare Association (NHA). In most cases, certification requires the completion of an accredited program, followed by successfully passing a comprehensive exam regarding the duties of a surgical technician.

In some states, certification is required to work as a surgical tech. However, even in areas where certification is not mandatory, certified technicians are generally granted preferential hiring and salary options when compared to non-certified technicians. Certification acts as a guarantee of the technician’s practical and academic skills in the field of surgical technology.

Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that the surgical technologist field will expand by about 19 percent by 2020. The median pay of over $39,000 is very competitive with other careers requiring the same level of education and certification.

The surgical technician serves a vital role in the modern healthcare sector. Those who choose this profession will find that it is a challenging career which is held in high esteem by fellow professionals and the public alike.

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In today’s medical field, surgeries, both elective and non-elective have become increasingly common. Whether it is a lifesaving emergency surgery performed at a trauma care center, or a minor surgical procedure that occurs in the doctor’s office, the number and types of surgical procedures continue to increase.

This has resulted in a growing demand for surgical technologists to support the surgeon and other professionals inside and outside of the surgery.

The Duties of the Surgical Technician

A surgical technician assists the surgeon, nurses and other personnel during all stages of the surgery. Their duties commonly include the following:

• Transporting the patient to the surgical theatre, and there positioning the patient so that the surgeon is best able to operate. This may include assisting with clamping the patient’s body into a certain position, requiring great precision on the part of the tech.

• Preparing the patient for surgery by cleaning and marking incision points. This is especially important, as incision areas must be completely sterile to avoid the danger of infection.

• Sterilizing and preparing medical equipment such as scalpels and sterile dressings.

• During the surgical procedure, assisting the surgeon by providing needed instruments and supplies.

• After the surgery, the technician will assist in transporting the patient back to their room or a recovery ward. Additionally, the surgical tech will work to clean and prepare the operating room for the next surgical procedure.

Surgical technicians must be capable of quickly and accurately following instructions from the surgeon and other medical personnel. In addition, they must be able to accurately communicate with their fellow professionals, especially during time critical operations.

Surgical technicians who are working in emergency rooms or trauma care centers must be capable of carrying out their duties calmly even during emergencies. Finally, they must be professional and courteous, especially when dealing with patients and their families.

Becoming a Surgical Tech

In order to become a skilled surgical technician, the student must attend a program focusing in surgical technology. These programs are offered by community colleges as well as vocational schools. Only surgical tech schools in Colorado that have been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) should be considered. CAAHEP ensures that the program maintains the highest educational standards and is fully up to date with the current practice of surgical technology.

In most cases, these programs take about two years to complete. However, there are a number of other options available to students. Part-time and online programs allow students to study at their own pace and even take classes from home. This is especially useful for students who are currently working or caring for a family.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist

Becoming a certified surgical technologist can radically improve the individual’s career options. There are several different programs that can allow this, all of which are nationally recognized. In most cases, becoming a technologist will involve taking an exam to demonstrate the individual’s skill, proof of graduation from a CAAHEP accredited program, and in some cases, work experience as a surgical technologist. In addition, certified surgical techs must renew their certification on a regular basis by demonstrating that they have taken continuing education courses to remain current with the state of their profession.

The three certifying agencies are:

• The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
• The National Center for Competency Testing.
• The National Healthcare Association.

Licensure in Colorado

Colorado does not require the surgical tech to have any specific training or certification, but it does require that any individual serving primarily as a surgical technician be registered with the state. However, many organizations will only hire surgical technicians who have completed accredited programs, or in some cases only certified technicians. A certified surgical technician will definitely enjoy better career options than non-certified techs, for example.

The Professional Outlook for Surgical Techs

Surgical techs currently enjoy a bright professional outlook. With the rise of outpatient clinics and urgent care centers, surgical technicians have a wide range of potential employers.

Those wishing to work in a traditional hospital setting will find that surgical procedures remain a major component of modern medicine, requiring highly trained technicians in the operating room.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that by 2020 there will be over 110,000 surgical technicians in the United States. The median salary of over $39,000 compares favorably with other professions requiring similar levels of education and training.

Whether for a currently working individual seeking to transfer to a more rewarding career or for a newly graduated student, becoming a surgical technician offers a well-regarded and secure career. With its excellent salary and advancement options, this profession can be an excellent career choice in today’s economy.

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While most people tend to think of surgery as an activity that only occurs in major hospitals, that is not the case and surgical techs can be found in a wide variety of settings.

The Duties of a Surgical Tech

Surgical techs help support the surgeon, anesthesiologist and other members of the surgical team before, during and after operations. In addition to providing services in the operating room itself, the surgical technician is often involved in preparing the patient for surgery and returning the patient to his or her room when the surgical procedure is finished.

Because of their importance, most surgical procedures will require one or more surgical techs to ensure the effective completion of the operation. Among the common procedures surgical technicians will assist in are the following:

• Emergency surgical procedures for patients who have suffered traumatic physical injuries.
• Scheduled procedures, such as heart operations or other major medical procedures.
• Minor surgeries, such as the removal of foreign objects from the skin.
• Elective surgeries, including cosmetic and weight loss procedures.
• Specialized surgical procedures, including dental and ocular (eye) surgery.

Common Areas Where Surgical Technicians are Employed

Surgical technicians work in a wide variety of settings. In some cases, they may specialize in one particular type of procedure, while other surgical technicians may see a variety of surgical procedures during their working day.

Medical Offices and Hospitals

The majority of surgical technicians still work in large hospitals and medical offices. In most cases, they are part of a team of technicians, surgeons and other medical professionals that provide a variety of services to the public. However, because of the size of many hospitals, especially those in major urban areas, it is not uncommon for surgical technologists to focus on one specific specialty within the hospital’s surgical department.

Surgical techs working in emergency rooms or trauma care centers will see a great deal of unscheduled and emergency operations. This will require the surgical tech to be able to effectively function during periods of high stress, especially if a large number of patients are brought in at the same time.

In other cases, hospital and medical office surgical techs will work on previously scheduled operations, allowing them to prepare for the operation, which has often been scheduled several weeks in advance. However, many of these surgical procedures, such as heart transplants or other major operations, may last for the better part of a day, requiring that the surgical tech be capable of standing and remaining alert for long periods of time.

Urgent Care Clinics

An increasingly common source of healthcare is the urgent care clinic, which provides services between those of a doctor’s office and a full-fledged hospital. Urgent care clinics often perform minor surgeries such as removing objects that have been embedded in the skin or cleaning and suturing minor wounds. A surgical technician will often directly work with a single doctor, and in most cases, the anesthesia is local and may be administered by the surgeon or a nurse, rather than by a specialized anesthesiologist.

Most of these surgical procedures are short in duration and minor in nature, but even so, the surgical technician must remain alert and prepared to assist the doctor at all times. In some cases, the patient may be a child or older individual and the surgical tech must present a professional demeanor in order to reassure them.

Specialized Surgical Fields

A growing number of organizations offer specialized surgical procedures, whether it is vision correcting or cosmetic surgery. These surgical procedures are often extremely specialized and the surgical technician will focus on one area, unlike surgical techs working in hospitals or urgent care clinics.

In most cases, these surgical procedures are scheduled well ahead of time, and the surgical technician working in a specialized clinic will likely have less in the way of unexpected overtime than surgical techs working in hospitals or urgent care clinics. Depending on the nature of the procedure, the patient may be able to leave immediately after the surgery. In other cases, such as for cosmetic or weight control surgery, the operation may be little different from those that occur in a hospital.

No matter where the surgical technician works however, he or she will play a vital role in providing high quality care to the patients that have been entrusted to the surgical team. As a vital component of any surgical team, a surgical tech must always be very professional when carrying out his or her duties. However, whether working in a trauma care center or in a dental clinic, surgical techs enjoy very promising career and salary options in addition to being highly respected by their fellow professionals and the public alike.

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In the modern medical field, the number of surgical procedures is steadily rising. From trauma care centers to cosmetic surgery clinics and dental offices, the importance of having highly qualified surgical technicians available at all points of a surgical procedure is greater than ever.

The Duties of the Surgical Technician

The surgical technician works alongside surgeons, nurses and other medical professionals in order to ensure that the operation is as safe and effective as possible. The surgical technician must be able to function for long periods while on his or her feet, and also be able to quickly and effectively communicate and follow instructions. Those surgical techs who are working in an emergency room or trauma care center may have to function in a high stress environment with little warning.

Among the common duties of the surgical tech are the following:

• Helping to transport the patient to the operating room and positioning the patient so that the surgeon will have the best possible access.

• Before the surgical procedure, the surgical tech must ensure that all equipment and supplies are present and in operating condition.

• The surgical tech will clean and sterilize incision sites to reduce the danger of a postoperative infection.

• The surgical technician will pass surgical tools to the surgeon during the surgery, as well as maintaining an inventory of all tools and components used during the surgical procedure.

• After the surgery, the surgical tech will assist in moving the patient to a recovery room, before preparing the operating room for later surgeries.

Surgical Technicians in Other Fields

While the common perception is that surgical technicians only work in the hospital, the growing number of urgent care clinics, cosmetic and weight loss clinics, and dental surgical practices have resulted in a large number of surgical techs working outside of the hospital setting.

In most cases, these technicians only work on surgical procedures that have been scheduled well in advance and thus can enjoy regular hours with little unexpected overtime. In addition, many of these surgical techs specialize in certain types of procedures, rather than the wide range of surgeries a surgical technician in a hospital is likely to encounter.

Becoming a Surgical Tech in Massachusetts

When considering becoming a surgical tech, it is important to obtain the best possible education from accredited programs. Currently, national bodies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) provide accreditation services for surgical technician programs. Accreditation means that the surgical technology program adheres to a variety of strict educational standards. In many cases, businesses and organizations will not consider courses taken from non-accredited programs, so it is urgent that the student make certain that his or her school is properly accredited.

In most cases, a surgical technologist program can take two years for full-time students. Many programs offer part-part time and weekend courses for those individuals who cannot attend the school as a full-time student. In addition, some programs currently offer Internet based educational programs, allowing the student to complete much of his or her work from home. This allows students who are currently working to complete their course work at their own pace.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Technician

While Massachusetts currently does not require licensure for surgical technicians, there are bills under consideration by the state government that may require surgical technicians to become licensed at some later point. For this reason, becoming a certified surgical technician may be a wise decision. In addition, certified surgical technicians have a wider variety of career options and greater wage earning potential than surgical techs that are not certified.

The following national bodies offer certification:

• The National Center for Competency Testing.
• The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
• The National Healthcare Association.

While they have a variety of titles for certified surgical technologists, all three organizations have strict guidelines for approval. In general, a surgical technician seeking to become certified must have graduated from an accredited program, and be able to complete an exam that tests his or her practical and academic qualifications in the field of surgical technology. Finally, certified surgical techs must renew their certification on a regular basis while taking continuing education courses to remain current with the field of surgical technology.

Becoming a surgical technologist is an excellent path to a well-compensated and highly respected medical career. With a wide variety of career options, surgical technicians are in demand in nearly every part of the state, both rural and urban. Currently, the Bureau of Labor Statistic estimates that surgical technicians will continue to enjoy sustained growth through 2020, with a median yearly salary of over $39,000. Due to this, becoming a surgical technician is an excellent choice in today’s competitive economy.

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Whether working as an emergency room surgical technician or as a tech assisting the physicians at an urgent care clinic, the surgical technologist is a vital component of the modern healthcare sector. With the growing demand for skilled and professional technicians, this field is becoming increasingly attractive for those who are interested in well paying and flexible employment in the medical sector.

The Demand For Surgical Technicians

In today’s healthcare sector the number of elective and medically necessary surgeries continues to increase. This has largely been driven by the rise of the use of surgical procedures in the cosmetic and weight control field. Additionally, the growing number of elderly individuals in the United States has resulted in an increased demand for elder care related surgical procedures.

As a major component of the surgical team, this has also resulted in the increased use of surgical techs. Because of this, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a steady growth in career opportunities through 2020. Additionally, the retirement of older surgical techs will help ensure that job opportunities remain promising for newly graduated surgical techs. Finally, a surgical tech’s median yearly wage is over $39,000, according to the BLS.

Where Do Surgical Techs Work

Surgical technologists work in a variety of fields, from major hospitals to small clinics. In addition, while some techs assist with major surgeries, urgent care clinics often use surgical technicians to assist with minor procedures. Elective surgeries, ranging from cosmetic surgery to weight control surgeries also make use of their own facilities and surgical techs.

Working Conditions for the Surgical Tech

Surgical technicians work in a variety of settings. Those working at public and private hospitals, especially in trauma care and ER settings may face unexpected and emergency surgeries. Those working in dental offices or clinics offering elective surgery usually have regular work hours.

Finally, surgical technicians must be prepared to remain on their feet for a long period of time during surgical procedures. Some surgical procedures, especially complex procedures such as transplants, can last over 10 hours. Surgical technicians must also be capable of working effectively during time critical operations, especially during emergency surgeries.

The Duties of a Surgical Technician

Surgical techs perform a variety of functions in the operating room. In general, the surgical tech works to assist the surgeon, nurses and any other specialists with the surgical procedure.

Among the more common duties of a surgical tech are the following:

• Preparing the operating room for the surgical procedure.
• Transporting and preparing the patient for surgery.
• Passing the surgeon scalpels and other surgical implements during the surgery.
• Ensuring that the surgical theatre remains sterile.
• Returning the patient to the recovery room after the surgery.

Becoming a Surgical Tech

While New York does not currently have any license requirements for surgical technologists, most organizations prefer to hire individuals who have demonstrated their competency in the field. A student should be certain to attend a Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited school, in order to ensure that he or she has received the best possible education.

In most cases, a surgical tech program takes about two years to complete. However, many schools offer part-time programs in order to allow students who are working to complete the program by taking evening and weekend classes. A number of schools also offer online programs, allowing the student to complete the program while working from home. This is especially useful for students who are caring for a family.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist

Becoming a certified surgical technician has a variety of advantages for the employee. Many businesses will prefer to hire a certified technician and a number of states require certification before they will allow a technician to obtain a license to practice.

Finally, certified surgical techs enjoy better career and salary options. There are a number of national certification bodies, including the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), which offer nationally recognized certification programs.

In order to become certified, the candidate must graduate from a CAAHEP accredited program, successfully pass a surgical technologists exam, and in some cases provide letters of recommendation from his or her supervisors and educators. In addition, in order to retain the certification, the surgical tech must take continuing education courses before renewing his or her certification. In this way, a certified technician is certain to be fully aware of the current state of surgical practice and technology.

Becoming a surgical tech opens the gateway to a well-compensated and rewarding career with numerous opportunities for advancement. In today’s challenging economy, becoming a surgical technician allows entry into a secure career that will continue to rise in importance in the coming years.

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Due to this growing demand for surgical technicians, the field is becoming increasingly popular among newly graduated individuals and those who are seeking to transition to a new and more rewarding career alike. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts sustained growth in career openings for surgical technicians through 2020.

In addition, an annual median wage of over $39,000 makes this career extremely competitive when compared to other careers requiring a similar level of education. Given the rise in the number of elderly individuals requiring surgical assistance, in addition to an increased emphasis on elective weight control and cosmetic surgical procedures, this field is likely to continue to enjoy a large number of career openings for the foreseeable future.

What Should a Student Expect From a Surgical Technology Program

Those interested in surgical technology should make certain that they are enrolled in a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The CAAHEP ensures that an accredited program has a comprehensive curriculum and high quality instructors that can effectively train surgical technicians. Furthermore, the CAAHEP periodically reviews accredited programs to ensure that they remain current with the modern state of healthcare science.

Types of Surgical Technology Programs

There are a variety of types of surgical technology programs. In addition to programs offered by community colleges, vocational schools and adult education centers also offer accredited surgical technology programs.

In most cases, an accredited full-time program will take approximately two years for a student to complete. However, many schools offer part-time and distance learning options for those students who are working or otherwise unable to attend classes on a full-time schedule. In many cases, these classes are offered during the evenings or on weekends in order to provide the greatest amount of flexibility for part-time students.

The Subjects Surgical Technology Programs Cover

Surgical techs must provide a variety of services to surgeons, anesthesiologists and the rest of the surgical team, as well as being able to assist other medical professionals outside of the operating room. Because of this, surgical technology programs cover a wide variety of subjects.

Among the common subjects a student will have to master are the following:

• Anatomy.
• Medical terminology, especially as it relates to surgical procedures.
• General and specialty surgical procedures.
• Operating room techniques and policies.
• Clinical practices.
• Techniques to eliminate the danger of postoperative infections, including how to ensure that surgical tools and supplies remain sterile.
• Medical ethics, especially relating to the responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of patient information.
• Emergency room and trauma care surgical policies and procedures.

In all cases, successfully completing these courses will require attention to detail and excellent communication skills. This is especially important given the fact that surgical techs must be able to immediately respond to the surgeon’s requests during an operation.

Practical Training for Surgical Techs

Most surgical technology programs also include a hands-on component where the students work in a clinical setting, observing and participating in surgical procedures under the guidance of their instructors or other practicing surgeons. This training is extremely important as many of the skills of a surgical technician can only be developed through practical experience.

In some cases, a surgical technician may be able to enter an internship, either before or after his or her graduation from the surgical technology program. Internships provide the technician with experience, in addition to allowing him or her to receive a salary. Most importantly, internships combine the practical experience a regular surgical technology job will provide with the guidance provided by the intern’s mentors and instructors. In addition, a successful internship will often lead to a permanent job after its completion.

Specialties in Surgical Technology

Some programs will also offer courses to prepare their students for specialized fields in surgical technology. These specialties can include fields such as emergency surgical procedures or specialized fields such as dental surgery, ocular (eye) surgery, or elective procedures such as weight control or cosmetic surgery. While the general requirements will remain the same, specialty fields often have specific educational requirements that must be covered.

A surgical technician must be prepared to work under stressful conditions while remaining calm and professional. Furthermore, a surgical tech must be able to work as part of a team of medical professionals. Effective surgical tech programs prepare their students for this, in addition to the academic skills they teach. However, by successfully completing a surgical technology program, the successful student will be prepared to enter a career that enjoys promising salary options and is continuing to grow in importance to the American healthcare sector.

The post Surgical Technology Training: What to Expect appeared first on Surgical Tech Guide.

Today, population increase in Southern California and the specialization of medical care has opened the door for students desiring to enter the medical professional as a surgical assistant.

The training involved is geared toward knowledge of the human body and how it is affected by injuries, how preventative surgery helps to keep the body in good health, and how surgical procedures are carried out. Doctors rely on well-trained assistants during and after the actual operating procedure in much the same way a dentist depends on the assistance provided in an examination room. Surgical assistants also have a leg up on the competition when it comes to advancement in the medical sector.

Educational Requirements For Surgical Techs

California state law does not require certification to work as a surgical assistant. However, completing a program at an accredited institution allows an individual to consider a greater number of job possibilities. Most degree programs are upper-class and require two years of undergraduate credits before the coursework can be undertaken. Many of the specialized training courses are from one to two years in length, and the student is awarded a Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, or certificate of completion that helps open doors in the job market.

Classes involve a study of the following:

• Medical terminology
• Human anatomy
• Operating room procedures
• Use of specialized instruments and how to prepare them
• Assisting patients with mobility and preparing them for surgery

Many of the accredited institutions in the San Diego area that offer degree or certificate programs for surgical technicians require previous credit in the areas of biology, chemistry, and general nursing. Upon completion of the program, students may also take a national certification exam. This helps immensely in the search for jobs, especially those that pay a monthly salary that is above the national average.

Surgical Tech Schools In San Diego

The Concorde Career College in San Diego offers a full program that covers various surgical technician and surgical assistant job duties. There are lecture classes, laboratory time, and a series of exams that must be passed before a degree is earned. Those with sufficient undergraduate college credit can earn their Bachelor’s degree with a core emphasis on surgical assistant training at Concorde Career College.

In nearby Oceanside, the MiraCosta College offers an extensive operating room surgical assistant course. This school is also accredited and is recognized by the CAAHEP. This is a 38-credit program that includes both classwork and a minimum number of hours in an actual operating room. Students may choose either the certificate of achievement program or the Associate in Arts degree program.

South of San Diego, the Southwestern College in Chula Vista offers an Associate in Science degree program for surgical assistant students. The student undertakes a 56-credit course that includes the same training that is required for surgical technician certification. Remaining credits involve classes in writing, biology, humanity, psychology, and mathematics.

A certificate or degree from one of the accredited schools in the San Diego area does not guarantee a full-time position, but the education and knowledge will certainly make the job search much easier.

Graduates of these programs will be able to apply for positions with:

• Rehabilitation clinics
• Dental surgery centers
• Trauma centers and emergency care clinics
• Veterinary hospitals
• Cosmetic surgery clinics

Many employers will require certification or the holding of a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree before considering a candidate. Although the number of jobs in the field of surgical techs is growing across Southern California, the candidate that has completed a degree program will find a greater number of available openings for which they qualify.

National certification can be obtained after the coursework is completed. Entities that provide examinations for certification include the National Center for Competency Testing, the National Board of Surgical Technology, and the National Healthcare Association.

Students earning their degree at an accredited school will receive assistance from their advisor concerning national certification as a surgical tech.

Salaries For Surgical Technicians

The average starting salary for a surgical assistant in the San Diego area is approximately $35,000. Those who are certified as a First Surgical Assistant and who have passed the exam for national certification may be offered a position that pays $40,000 or more. Those with at least three years of experience may earn in excess of $60,000. This is especially true if the student participated in an internship program after earning a degree or certificate.

The number of surgical tech jobs in the Southern California region is expected to increase by as much as 10 percent over the next five to ten years. This is primarily due to the growing population and the need for specialty care for the aging members of society.

The number of citizens above the age of 70 has been growing steadily thanks to the baby boom in the mid-20th century. This has resulted in a greater need for health care specialists, especially those educated in the surgical procedure sector.

San Diego Area Surgical Tech Programs

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  University of Nebraska Online Worldwide

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Kaplan University Online

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Keiser University eCampus Online

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Kaplan College

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Concorde Career College

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Milan Institute

  Campus

  Degrees

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  San Joaquin Valley College

  Campus

  Degrees

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  Newbridge College

  Campus

  Degrees

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One of the more important individuals within the healthcare sector is the surgical technical, who is vital to the operation of any surgical practice, no matter its size or specialization.

The Surgical Technician and the Modern Healthcare Industry

The healthcare industry currently includes a growing focus on surgical procedures for a number of purposes. Among them are the following procedures, all of which can require the assistance of a surgical technician:

• Emergency surgical intervention for patients that have suffered from an unexpected accident or illness such as appendicitis.

• Scheduled procedures for non-elective surgery, such as the removal of tumors, or the surgical repair of broken bones, especially complex fractures.

• Minor surgeries that are performed on an outpatient basis. These include surgical procedures to cure minor injuries performed at urgent care clinics.

• Elective surgical procedures, such as cosmetic modifications to the patient.

• Transplants, dental surgery or other specialized procedures.

With the current emphasis on health in America, more individuals than ever are receiving elective or non-elective surgery, ranging from common procedures to complex surgeries designed to restore the full function of damaged limbs.

Surgery and the Elderly

Furthermore, the growing numbers of the elderly in America have resulted in an increasing need for various forms of surgery for elderly patients. For example, falls are now one of the leading causes of death and injury among the elderly, and the resultant fractures often require surgical procedures to ensure a complete recovery.
Because of this, surgical tech jobs are likely to continue to increase, as the long-term trend in America will continue to see more elderly patients that require various forms of surgical procedures. This is especially likely due to the increasing life expectancy of both middle-aged and younger individuals.

The Duties of the Surgical Technician

Surgical technicians work to support the surgeon, nurses and other professionals before, during and after surgical procedures. Their assistance is a vital part of ensuring that any operation proceeds in a smooth and effective fashion. Among the most common duties of the surgical tech are the following:

• Ensuring that all tools and dressings are properly prepared for the surgery. This includes ensuring that they have been effectively sterilized in order to avoid the danger of infection from contaminated equipment.

• Ensuring that the operating room is prepared for the surgical procedure by checking equipment and supplies to ensure that all components are present and operating correctly.

• Surgical technicians often assist in transporting the patient to the surgery.

• The surgical tech will assist in preparing the patient for the surgery, by cleaning and disinfecting the incision sites on the patient’s body. Additionally they will position the patient in order to prepare them for surgery.

• Assisting the surgical team in dressing for the surgery by ensuring that surgical gloves, gowns and other items of clothing are sterile.

• During the surgery, the tech will assist the surgeon and nurses by providing the required equipment and supplies to them as needed during the course of the operation.

Additionally, a surgical technician must be capable of effectively communicating with the surgeons, nurses, and his or her fellow surgical technicians. This is especially important in emergency or trauma care surgery, where the surgical tech may have to operate in a quickly changing situation, where fast and accurate action is vital to the patient’s health.

Becoming a Surgical Tech

Surgical technicians are generally high school graduates or the equivalent, who have successfully completed a postsecondary program in surgical technology. Most of these programs can be found at community colleges or private vocational schools.

Completing a surgical technology program can take anywhere from several months to two years or more. In many cases, the length depends on whether or not the student is attending a program full-time or as a part-time student. In addition, a number of programs have distance-learning provisions, allowing students to complete their work via online courses, which can be beneficial for those students who are working or who have family obligations.

Finally, a growing number of surgical tech programs have been accredited since 2010, when the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) started to accredit qualified surgical tech programs. Students graduating from accredited programs may enjoy better post-graduation job opportunities, as well as finding it easier to become a certified surgical tech.

Certified Surgical Techs

A growing number of surgical techs are choosing to become certified technicians, in order to improve their professional qualifications. Becoming a certified surgical tech requires the following steps:

• Successfully completing an accredited surgical tech program.
• Passing an exam that tests the technician’s academic and practical qualifications as a surgical tech.
• Completing an ongoing program of continuing education to ensure that his or her knowledge remains current.

Several organizations provide certification for qualified technicians, and in some states, becoming a certified tech may be required for certain jobs. In addition, certified techs may find it easier to progress to more specialized medical careers such as becoming a registered nurse.

The Employment Outlook for Surgical Techs

In today’s economy, surgical tech jobs remain a dynamic source of employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that over 90,000 surgical techs are currently working in America and that number is likely to increase by 19 percent by 2020. With a median yearly wage of over $39,000, surgical technicians can expect to enjoy a long-term and secure career. Finally, the rising importance of healthcare within America makes the surgical technologist a vital and honored component of a profession that the community depends on for their long-term health.

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