The Growing Demand for Surgical Techs
If you’re considering a career in healthcare, becoming a surgical tech may be a smart move. The demand for surgical techs is rising, and it’s projected to continue to grow in the coming years. As the population ages and medical technology advances, surgical procedures are becoming more common, and surgical techs are needed to assist in these procedures.
A Rewarding Career
Being a surgical tech can be a rewarding career. You’ll be an important part of the surgical team, and you’ll play a critical role in helping patients. You’ll be responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and assisting the surgeon during the procedure. You’ll also be responsible for ensuring the safety of the patient and the entire surgical team.
A Fast-Paced Environment
Working as a surgical tech can be exciting and fast-paced. You’ll be working in a dynamic environment where every day is different. You’ll be working with a team of healthcare professionals, and you’ll be responsible for ensuring that everything runs smoothly during the surgical procedure.
A Good Salary and Job Security
Another reason to become a surgical tech is the salary and job security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $47,300 in 2020. Additionally, the job outlook for surgical techs is positive, with a projected growth rate of 7% from 2020 to 2030.
The Education and Training Required
To become a surgical tech, you’ll need to complete a formal education program. These programs are typically offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and some hospitals. The programs can range from 9 months to 2 years in length, and they typically result in a certificate or an associate degree.
The Curriculum
The curriculum for surgical tech programs typically includes courses in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, surgical procedures, and sterile techniques. You’ll also receive hands-on training in the operating room, where you’ll learn how to set up and maintain surgical equipment and assist the surgeon during procedures.
Certification and Licensure
After completing an accredited surgical tech program, you’ll need to become certified to work in the field. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is the most widely recognized certification for surgical techs. Some states also require surgical techs to be licensed.
The Personal Qualities Required
To be a successful surgical tech, you’ll need to have certain personal qualities. You’ll need to be detail-oriented, organized, and able to work well under pressure. You’ll also need to have good communication skills and be able to work as part of a team.
The Ability to Handle Stressful Situations
Working in a surgical environment can be stressful, and you’ll need to be able to handle the pressure. You’ll be working in a fast-paced environment, and you’ll need to be able to stay calm and focused during the surgical procedure.
The Ability to Work Well with Others
As a surgical tech, you’ll be working as part of a team, and you’ll need to be able to work well with others. You’ll be working with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals, and you’ll need to be able to communicate effectively with them.
The Conclusion
Becoming a surgical tech can be a smart career move. The demand for surgical techs is growing, and the job outlook is positive. Additionally, working as a surgical tech can be rewarding and exciting. If you’re considering a career in healthcare, becoming a surgical tech may be the right choice for you.