Certified Surgical Tech Programs
What is a Certified Surgical Tech?
A certified surgical tech is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, setting up equipment, and assisting the surgeon with tasks such as suturing, retraction, and irrigation.
Surgical techs must be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must have a strong understanding of surgical procedures and be able to follow instructions precisely. They must also be able to work under pressure and remain calm in stressful situations.
What are the Benefits of Becoming a Certified Surgical Tech?
There are many benefits to becoming a certified surgical tech. These include:
- Job security: Surgical techs are in high demand, and the job outlook is expected to grow in the coming years.
- Good salary: Surgical techs earn a good salary, with the median annual salary being over $50,000.
- Opportunities for advancement: Surgical techs can advance to positions such as surgical first assistant or operating room manager.
- Personal satisfaction: Surgical techs play a vital role in the healthcare team, and they can take pride in knowing that they are helping to improve the lives of patients.
What are the Requirements for Becoming a Certified Surgical Tech?
To become a certified surgical tech, you must meet the following requirements:
- Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Training: You must complete a surgical tech training program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Certification: You must pass the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) certification exam.
What are the Different Types of Surgical Tech Programs?
There are two main types of surgical tech programs: associate degree programs and certificate programs.
Associate degree programs typically take two years to complete and result in an associate of applied science (AAS) degree. Certificate programs typically take one year to complete and result in a certificate of completion.
What is the Curriculum of a Surgical Tech Program?
The curriculum of a surgical tech program typically includes the following courses:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Surgical procedures
- Sterile technique
- Patient care
- Ethics
How Long Does it Take to Become a Certified Surgical Tech?
The time it takes to become a certified surgical tech depends on the type of program you choose.
Associate degree programs typically take two years to complete, while certificate programs typically take one year to complete. Once you have completed your program, you will need to pass the NBSTSA certification exam.
What is the Job Outlook for Surgical Techs?
The job outlook for surgical techs is expected to grow in the coming years. This is due to the increasing number of surgical procedures being performed and the aging population.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of surgical techs is projected to grow by 12% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.