Are you interested in pursuing a career as a surgical technician? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps you need to take to become a successful surgical technician. From education and training to certification and job opportunities, we’ve got you covered.
Educational Requirements
The first step to becoming a surgical technician is to complete a formal education program. Most surgical technician programs can be completed in as little as 1-2 years and are offered at community colleges, technical schools, and some hospitals. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.
Certification
After completing an accredited surgical technician program, you will need to become certified. The most common certification for surgical technicians is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To become certified, you will need to pass an exam that covers topics such as surgical procedures, patient care, and sterilization techniques.
Clinical Experience
Once you have completed your education and obtained certification, you will need to gain clinical experience. Many employers require surgical technicians to have 1-2 years of experience before being hired. You can gain this experience through internships, externships, or entry-level positions in hospitals, clinics, or surgical centers.
Job Opportunities
As a certified surgical technician, you will have a variety of job opportunities available to you. Surgical technicians are in high demand in hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics. Some surgical technicians also choose to work in research facilities, physician offices, or for medical device companies. The job outlook for surgical technicians is expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
Conclusion
Now that you have a better understanding of what it takes to become a surgical technician, you can start taking the necessary steps to pursue your career in this rewarding field. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences as a surgical technician, feel free to leave a comment below.