subject: Surgical Technician Career Overview And Job Profile [print this page] A surgical technician career is one that can be immensely rewarding and stimulating. Working in any healthcare occupation is a worthwhile enterprise, contributing to the wellbeing of society has never been so important. The role of a surgical technician involves setting up and sterilizing equipment, and preparing the operating room before surgery. Depending upon the nature of the facility, an individual with this profile may also be expected to observe a patient's vital signs during an operation, and ensure that the surgeons have access to the correct instruments.
Most medical technicians are employed on a full time basis, and work a minimum of forty hours a week. The schedule may not always be nine to five, operations can be carried out at any time of the day or night. The hours would depend upon the type of employer and availability of other professional medical staff.
Before taking up employment in this role, it is necessary to complete education and training. On average, the program of study may take anywhere from nine months up to two years. The courses are typically mixed, that is to say they contain theoretical classroom modules as well as supervised clinical time. Training continues on the job, especially in terms of dealing and interacting with patients and surgeons.
The type of certification required to become a surgical technician varies depending upon location. Employment requirements will also be determined by the medical establishment in question. It is important to be aware of the latest regulations before applying for any openings.
The salary available to individuals in this occupation can vary greatly. According to data made available from the US bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2008, the average earnings per year stood at $36,000. The top ten per cent commanded a salary greater than $50,000, while the lowest ten per cent made less than $25,000 per year.
In general, those technicians employed in outpatient centers and private offices made the most money, those working in hospitals and dental clinics had the lowest income. Location is also an important factor relating to salary. The highest wages are provided to technicians working in the big urban centers.
As of 2008, there were 86,000 surgical technicians employed in the US. It is predicted that in the coming decade, the number of opportunities in this field is expected to grow by twenty four per cent. This is in part due to a longer life expectancy and a growing population.
