Becoming a surgical technician is a rewarding alternative for anyone wishing to forego the long, costly trek into medical school.<\/p>\n
Surgical technicians, or technologists, are healthcare workers who assist surgeons by preparing the operating room. Surgical techs will sterilize scalpels, disinfect incision sites, transport patients, stock supplies, take specimens for lab analysis, and adjust equipment. During operations, technicians will also pass instruments to surgeons, hold retractors, cut sutures, and apply dressings.<\/p>\n
It’s estimated that 51.4 inpatient surgical procedures take place in America each year, and this number is growing as baby boomers age. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for surgical technicians<\/a> will rise faster-than-average by 15 percent, thus creating 14,700 new jobs by 2024. If you’re ready to scrub in, follow this step-by-step guide to become a surgical technician.<\/p>\n Formal training is typically required for surgical technologists beyond a high school diploma or GED. Surgical techs may pursue simply a certificate or diploma in nine to 12 months, but employers increasingly want associate degrees. These two-year programs are offered by community colleges, technical institutes, and trade schools. Training that’s accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) is deemed top-quality. Surgical technology curricula generally blends didactic instruction with hands-on, clinical experience. Coursework will study areas like human anatomy, physiology, biology, pharmacology, patient safety, sterilization, and infection control. You’ll also work in a licensed healthcare organization to deliver perioperative and intra-operative care.<\/p>\n1. Pursue Post-Secondary Training<\/h3>\n
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2. Earn Board Certification<\/h3>\n