subject: How to Become a Surgical Technologist - Introducing a Lucrative Career Opportunity [print this page] How to Become a Surgical Technologist - Introducing a Lucrative Career Opportunity
How would you like to work in the operating room without spending many years to train as a surgeon? If you're considering this idea, then consider becoming a surgical technologist. Don't know what that is? Well then, this is your guide to learning all the aspects of this career. Duties and Responsibilities Your main duty in the OR is to help surgeons, nurses and other medical professionals during a surgery. You can be of assistance by performing the following tasks:
Before the Surgery:
Preparing surgical equipment and instruments
Preparing patients for surgery
Transporting patients to the OR prior to the surgery
Helping physicians and nurses wear sterile gowns and gloves
During the Surgery:
Passing surgical instruments
Monitoring supplies like sponges and needles
Cutting sutures and applying dressing
Operating some diagnostic equipment
After the Surgery:
Restocking the OR
Sterilizing the OR
Transporting patients out of the OR
Career Outlook and Salary
If you're interested in becoming a surgical technologist but are worried about the future, don't be. Research guarantees that this field is expected to grow up to 25% by 2018, which guarantees you more and newer opportunities. As for the salary, it is quite good considering that you're not performing the actual surgery. On an average, you should expect to earn $32,500 to $47,000. However, you can always earn more depending on your level of education and years of experience. The Required Education Before you can enroll in technical schools or start your official training, you need to finish high school or get a GED. Once you get one of these, you need to choose the right surgical tech degree for your needs and aspirations. Consider one of the following options:
An Associate's Degree in Surgical Technology - This is a 12 to 24-month program which guarantees a budding surgical technologist a better career opportunity and a higher salary. In this program, you will learn general and specialized surgical procedures and medical subjects.
A Certificate in Surgical Training - A certificate program is designed to boost a degree you already have, which is why it is a good option for medical professionals who are interested in this line of work.
A Diploma in Surgical Technology -If you had not gone through college, or had only taken some college-level courses, then a diploma is a good option to learn the medical and surgical aspects of this career.
In addition to these degrees, you should consider applying for a clinical externship. This way you can learn more about the environment a surgical technologist usually works in, and practically implement your knowledge. Plus, this short experience will be of value for your future employers.
Speaking of future employment, becoming certified can add to your job opportunities. You can choose to earn your certificate from the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist (LCC-ST), a.k.a. the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Now, don't you think becoming a surgical technologist is a great idea?
