Introduction
If you are interested in working in the healthcare industry and have a passion for surgery, becoming a certified surgical technologist may be the perfect career choice for you. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to become a certified surgical technologist in 2023.
Educational Requirements
To become a certified surgical technologist, you must complete a formal education program. The program must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). The program typically takes 9-24 months to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Curriculum
The curriculum for a surgical technology program typically includes courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, pharmacology, surgical procedures, and patient care. You will also receive hands-on training in a clinical setting.
Certification Requirements
After completing your education program, you must pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. The exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible for the exam, you must have completed an accredited surgical technology program or have at least seven years of experience as a surgical technologist.
Exam Content
The CST exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, surgical procedures, and patient care. You will have four hours to complete the exam, and you must score at least 70% to pass.
Continuing Education
After becoming certified, you must complete continuing education courses to maintain your certification. The NBSTSA requires certified surgical technologists to complete 60 continuing education credits every four years. You can earn these credits by attending seminars, workshops, or online courses.
Advancement Opportunities
As a certified surgical technologist, you may have opportunities for advancement. You can become a surgical first assistant by completing additional education and training. You can also become a surgical technologist instructor or pursue a career in healthcare management.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is expected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to an aging population that requires more surgical procedures.
Salary Expectations
The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020. The highest 10 percent earned more than $72,510, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,870.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified surgical technologist is a rewarding career choice that requires dedication and hard work. By completing an accredited education program, passing the CST exam, and maintaining your certification through continuing education, you can have a successful career in the healthcare industry.