Surgical
Technologist – training and careers
Secure
your future – start a career as a Surgical
Technologist!
Healthcare professionals are in
high demand and schools specializing in training for
Surgical
Technologists offer graduates the opportunity to start an exciting and
rewarding career. According to the Department of Labor,
employment of Surgical
Technologists is expected to grow much
faster than average as the volume of surgery
increases and the
population grows and ages.
Surgical Technologists, also called
Surgical Technicians, assist in surgical operations
under the
supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel.
Surgical Technologists are members of operating room teams, which
most commonly
include surgeons, anesthesiologists, and
circulating nurses. Before an operation,
Surgical Technologists
help to prepare the operating room. Surgical Technologists set
up
surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes, and solutions. They
also get
patients ready for surgery. After an operation, Surgical
Technologists may help transfer
patients to the recovery room and
clean and restock the operating room.
Surgical Technologists
receive their training in formal programs offered by community
and junior colleges, vocational schools, universities, hospitals, and
the military.
Programs last from 9 to 24 months and lead to a
certificate, diploma, or associate
degree. Programs provide
classroom education and supervised clinical experience.
Students
take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology,
professional ethics, and medical terminology. Other studies cover the
care and safety of
patients during surgery, sterile techniques,
and surgical procedures. Students also
learn to sterilize
instruments; prevent and control infection; and handle special drugs,
solutions, supplies, and equipment. Institutions specializing in
healthcare training for
Surgical Technologists generally provide
students with job placement assistance and
financial aid to those
who qualify.
Most employers prefer to hire certified Surgical
Technologists. Professional certification
may be obtained from
the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist
by graduating from an accredited program and passing a national
certification
examination. Continuing education or reexamination
is required to maintain certification,
which must be renewed
every 4 years.
Training and certification as a Surgical
Technologist can provide you with a path to
greater job security,
responsibility and financial reward. Prepare for your future and
learn the skills you need to become a Surgical Technologist
today!
