Maria SteveThe healthcare field offers numerous career opportunities, and one of the essential roles in any surgical team is that of a surgical technologist.
If you are someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and has a strong interest in helping others, becoming a surgical technologist might be the perfect career path for you.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what it takes to become a surgical technologist, focusing on the education and training required for this rewarding role.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist is a healthcare professional who assists in surgeries by ensuring the operating room is sterile, prepared, and well-stocked with necessary instruments.
They play a crucial role in maintaining patient safety during surgery. They help the surgical team by passing instruments, holding tissues, and assisting in other tasks as required during a procedure.
A surgical technologist also helps clean up after surgery, prepares surgical equipment for sterilization, and ensures that everything is accounted for before, during, and after the procedure.
Step 1: Education Requirements
The first step toward becoming a surgical technologist is obtaining the proper education. While you can find various routes to enter this field, most surgical technologists start by completing a formal educational program. Here’s what you need to know about the options available:
1. Associate’s Degree
Most aspiring surgical technologists pursue an associate’s degree in surgical technology.
These programs typically take two years to complete and offer in-depth knowledge of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the job. Coursework will include subjects like anatomy, medical terminology, microbiology, patient care, and surgical procedures. You will also spend time in hands-on training through clinical rotations, where you can practice working in real operating rooms under the supervision of experienced professionals.
2. Certificate Programs
For those who may already have some healthcare training or want to complete their education more quickly, certificate programs are also available.
These programs typically take about 9-24 months to complete and provide the essential knowledge needed for a career as a surgical technologist.
Though shorter than an associate’s degree, certificate programs still offer hands-on training and education focused on the skills required for surgical procedures.
Step 2: Gain Hands-On Experience
Becoming a skilled surgical technologist involves much more than classroom learning. Practical experience is essential, as it allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings. During your education, you will participate in clinical rotations in hospitals or surgical centers. These rotations provide valuable, on-the-job experience where you will:
- Learn to prepare the operating room and surgical instruments
- Assist with positioning the patient for surgery
- Ensure proper sterile techniques are maintained
- Pass instruments to the surgeon and surgical team
- Help with the post-operative clean-up and care of surgical instruments
By working alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, you’ll develop the confidence and skills required to thrive in this fast-paced and high-pressure environment.
Step 3: Certification and Licensure
While certification is not always mandatory, most employers prefer hiring a surgical technologist who has obtained certification.
Certification shows that you have met certain professional standards and are competent in your role.
The most widely recognized certification for surgical technologists is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
To obtain certification, you must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics like surgical procedures, instrumentation, and patient care. The exam is typically taken after you have completed your educational program. Certification must be renewed every four years, which involves completing continuing education courses or passing a recertification exam.
Step 4: On-the-Job Training and Continuing Education
After receiving your degree and certification, you may still have to undergo on-the-job training. This training period allows you to become familiar with specific surgical practices at your workplace, including particular procedures, equipment, and protocols used in your hospital or surgical center.
Continuing education is also essential for surgical technologists. Medicine and technology are always evolving, so staying up-to-date with the latest trends, tools, and best practices is crucial.
Many employers offer opportunities for further training, and you can also choose to attend workshops, seminars, or online courses to enhance your knowledge and skills. For example, some surgical technologists decide to specialize in specific areas, such as cardiovascular or orthopedic surgery, and additional training is required for these specialized roles.
Step 5: Career Advancement
The role of a surgical technologist offers many opportunities for career advancement. After gaining experience, you may move into supervisory or managerial roles, such as a surgical technology educator or surgical first assistant. Some surgical technologists also go on to pursue advanced degrees in related fields, such as nursing or healthcare administration, to further broaden their career opportunities.
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical technologist is a rewarding career path for those who are detail-oriented, enjoy working in a team, and have a passion for helping others. With the right education, hands-on experience, and certification, you can embark on this exciting journey. The role of a surgical technologist is essential to ensuring successful surgeries, patient safety, and the smooth operation of healthcare facilities. Whether you pursue an associate’s degree, certificate program, or continue with specialized training, you’ll find that this career offers both personal fulfillment and professional growth.
