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How to become a surgical technologist?
Tell us everything we need to know to become a surgical technologist.
Note: Given the growing interest in the medical field, we're inviting our experienced professionals to share their knowledge.
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Patrick Meyer
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To embark on a career as a surgical technologist, you need to follow a well-defined educational and professional journey. This journey usually includes completing a formal education, acquiring certification, and amassing hands-on experience in the field.
Begin with obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent, with a focus on science and math courses. These subjects will lay a solid foundation for your future learning. Post high school, sign up for an accredited surgical technology program. Such programs are provided by community colleges, technical schools, and certain universities. These programs typically last between 12-24 months, culminating in a certificate or an associate degree. As part of your education, you'll acquire knowledge about anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical terminology, and surgical procedures. Practical training in sterilization methods, equipment usage, and patient care is also a vital part of the course.
Upon finishing your educational program, your next move should be to secure certification. While not compulsory in every state, being certified can greatly boost your chances of employment and prove your proficiency in the field. The most acknowledged certification is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, provided by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To attain this certification, you need to graduate from an accredited program and clear a comprehensive exam.
Once certified, you can kick-start your career in diverse healthcare environments, like hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, or specialty clinics. Many employers favor hiring certified surgical technologists, so your certification can provide you an advantage in the job market. With experience, you might opt to specialize in a specific surgical area, such as cardiovascular, neurosurgery, or orthopedics.
Continual learning is a key element of a surgical technologist's career. To keep your certification active, you are required to earn a certain number of continuing education credits periodically. This ensures you stay abreast with the newest surgical techniques, technologies, and patient care best practices.
Bear in mind that becoming a surgical technologist demands commitment, meticulousness, and the capability to perform well under stress. You'll play a crucial role in the surgical team, with duties including preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons during procedures. Excellent communication skills, physical endurance, and the capacity to stay composed in high-stress situations are vital traits for success in this profession.
Begin with obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent, with a focus on science and math courses. These subjects will lay a solid foundation for your future learning. Post high school, sign up for an accredited surgical technology program. Such programs are provided by community colleges, technical schools, and certain universities. These programs typically last between 12-24 months, culminating in a certificate or an associate degree. As part of your education, you'll acquire knowledge about anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical terminology, and surgical procedures. Practical training in sterilization methods, equipment usage, and patient care is also a vital part of the course.
Upon finishing your educational program, your next move should be to secure certification. While not compulsory in every state, being certified can greatly boost your chances of employment and prove your proficiency in the field. The most acknowledged certification is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, provided by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To attain this certification, you need to graduate from an accredited program and clear a comprehensive exam.
Once certified, you can kick-start your career in diverse healthcare environments, like hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, or specialty clinics. Many employers favor hiring certified surgical technologists, so your certification can provide you an advantage in the job market. With experience, you might opt to specialize in a specific surgical area, such as cardiovascular, neurosurgery, or orthopedics.
Continual learning is a key element of a surgical technologist's career. To keep your certification active, you are required to earn a certain number of continuing education credits periodically. This ensures you stay abreast with the newest surgical techniques, technologies, and patient care best practices.
Bear in mind that becoming a surgical technologist demands commitment, meticulousness, and the capability to perform well under stress. You'll play a crucial role in the surgical team, with duties including preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons during procedures. Excellent communication skills, physical endurance, and the capacity to stay composed in high-stress situations are vital traits for success in this profession.