Are you interested in pursuing a career in healthcare that involves working directly with surgeons in the operating room? If so, becoming a surgical technician may be the perfect career path for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a surgical technician, including the education and training required, job duties, salary expectations, and more. Read on to learn how you can embark on this rewarding and challenging career.
Education and Training
In order to become a surgical technician, you will need to complete a formal training program. Most surgical technology programs can be completed in as little as nine months to two years and are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and universities. These programs typically include classroom instruction as well as hands-on training in a clinical setting.
During your training, you will learn about surgical procedures, infection control, sterilization techniques, and how to assist surgeons during operations. You will also learn about anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Upon completion of your program, you may be required to pass a certification exam in order to become a certified surgical technician.
Job Duties
As a surgical technician, your primary role will be to assist surgeons during surgical procedures. This may include setting up the operating room, preparing surgical instruments and equipment, and passing instruments to the surgeon during the procedure. You may also be responsible for maintaining a sterile field during surgery and disposing of used materials properly.
In addition to assisting during surgery, surgical technicians may also be responsible for prepping patients for procedures, transporting patients to and from the operating room, and stocking and organizing the operating room. It is important for surgical technicians to work quickly and efficiently in order to ensure the safety of patients and the success of the surgery.
Salary Expectations
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020. The highest 10 percent earned more than $72,500, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $34,120. Salary expectations for surgical technicians may vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and type of facility.
In addition to a competitive salary, surgical technicians may also receive benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement savings plans. Many surgical technicians find the work to be rewarding as they are directly involved in helping patients receive the care they need.
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical technician can be a fulfilling and challenging career choice for those interested in the healthcare field. With the right education and training, you can embark on a career that allows you to work closely with surgeons and make a positive impact on the lives of patients. If you are considering a career as a surgical technician, make sure to research training programs in your area and reach out to current surgical technicians for more information.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insight into what it takes to become a surgical technician. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences as a surgical technician, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!