What degree do you need to be a surgical tech?: To become a surgical technologist, individuals typically pursue post-secondary education in surgical technology, which includes completing a diploma, certificate, or associate degree program. This education equips them with the necessary skills to assist surgeons and other healthcare professionals in maintaining a sterile environment and providing optimal patient care during surgical procedures.
While it is possible to find jobs offering on-the-job training in states where surgical technicians are not regulated, even these jobs generally require that you have some healthcare training under your belt or have professional certification. Therefore, it is recommended to receive training from a surgical technologist program to successfully enter this field.
What is Surgical Tech?
A surgical technologist, a vital member of the healthcare team, readies the operating room (OR) for surgical procedures.
Collaborating closely with the surgeon, assistants, nurses, and anesthesia providers, they ensure the smooth functioning of the surgical environment.
Additionally, they may go by various titles such as surgical techs, scrub techs, surgical assistants, or operating room technicians.
Surgical Technologist Degree Options
There are two main training options for becoming a surgical technologist: certificate programs and associate degree programs. The two options have many similarities and some differences that may influence which program is best for you and your career goals.
The most important thing to remember is that no matter what type of program you choose, it must be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and/or the Office of School Accreditation health education (ABHES).
When a program is accredited by one of these institutions, you can rest assured that your program will allow you to apply for professional certifications or state-level certifications, which may be necessary to work where you live .
Additionally, a quality program should offer plenty of student support services to help you plan your career, such as helping you find internships and/or job opportunities during or after the program.
What Degree do you need to be a Surgical Tech?
To become a surgical technologist, individuals typically start their educational journey after high school. The first step is usually obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Following this, aspiring surgical technologists commonly pursue post-secondary education in the form of a diploma, certificate, or associate degree program in surgical technology.
These are the degrees you need to be a surgical tech:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Post-secondary education in surgical technology (diploma, certificate, or associate degree)
- Completion of accredited surgical technology program
- Optional: Professional certifications (e.g., CST, TS-C, NCORST, NCST)
Surgical Tech Certification Classes / Certification Programs
Program Duration: Approximately 12-18 months
Admission Requirements: You will need a GED or high school diploma, with the standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
Certificate programs are usually given at community colleges and technical schools. They are generally shorter than associate degree programs and can usually be completed in approximately 12 to 18 months.
Although every school’s admissions procedure is a little different, but still we can apply for most certificate programs directly without any prerequisite courses. Because they are shorter, certification programs generally cost less and can get you into the field more quickly. This is like a mini certified surgical technologist exam study guide.
Surgical Technologist Certification Program Near Me
Various professional certifications are accessible to surgical technologists, which can significantly impact their eligibility for employment. In states where certification or registration by the state is obligatory for surgical technologists.
It is holding a professional certification becomes a prerequisite for employment. Even in states where such regulations are not in place, many employers prefer candidates with professional certifications as they ensure the competence and suitability of applicants for the role.
Some of the certifications available for surgical technologists are:
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
- Tech in Surgery—Certified (TS-C) provided by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
- Nationally Certified Operating Room and Surgical Technician (NCORST) issued by the National Healthcare Workers Association (NHCWA)
- Nationally Certified Surgical Technologist (NCST) granted by American Allied Health (AAH)
AST Surgical Technology for the Surgical Technologist
The Accredited surgical technologist programs include multiple courses providing you with the knowledge and best skills you require to prepare for the role of a surgical technologist. Also, they include a combination of classroom learning and hands-on clinical experiences so you can practice in the real world as a surgical technologist.
Each program has its own learning outcomes and curriculum designed to meet the educational requirements of its accrediting body. CAAHEP-accredited programs, for example, must include courses in the following areas:
| Area | Courses in |
|---|---|
| Healthcare Sciences | Medical Terminology, Anatomy and Physiology, Microbiology, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology and Anesthesia |
| Professional Practice | Professionalism, Healthcare Facility Knowledge, Biopsychosocial Concepts |
| Technological Science | Information Technology, Electricity, Laser Applications, Minimally Invasive Techniques, Interventional Radiology |
| Surgical Technology | Equipment Handling, Instrumentation Mastery, Supply Management, Aseptic Procedures, Sterile Processing, Perioperative Management, Assistant Circulator Duties, Specialty Surgical Procedures, Rotations, and Roles |
What can a surgical tech do?
Surgical technologists, sometimes known as operating room technicians, collaborate with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals throughout surgical procedures. Their role is pivotal in maintaining a sterile and well-organized environment.
Scope of Responsibilities
Surgical technologists operate within the surgical suite alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses. Their duties can be categorized into three phases: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative.
Preoperative Phase: Before the surgery, surgical technologists focus on sterilization and preparation, which involves:
- Ensuring the sterility of equipment and the operating room
- Assisting in patient preparation for surgery
- Organizing and counting surgical instruments and equipment required for the procedure
- Facilitating patient readiness for the operation
Intraoperative Phase: During surgery, surgical technologists carry out various essential tasks, including:
- Maintaining the sterility of the operating room environment
- Passing surgical instruments to the surgeon and assistant
- Assisting in tissue retraction during surgery
Postoperative Phase: After the surgery, surgical technologists aid in concluding the procedure and are responsible for:
- Inventorying all instruments and equipment used during surgery
- Applying dressings to surgical sites
- Disposing of needles and gauze
- Preserving the sterile conditions of the operating room until the patient is transferred to the recovery area
Surgical Technologist Specializations
Specialized Areas in Surgical Technology While many surgical technologists have a broad range of skills, some opt to specialize in particular fields or surgical procedures.
These specializations may include focusing on:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Cardiac surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Plastic surgery
- Organ transplants
- Urology
FAQ’s
What is surgical tech, and how does it differ from traditional surgery?
A surgical technologist assists surgeons during operations by preparing operating rooms, handling instruments, and ensuring sterility. Unlike traditional surgery where surgeons perform procedures, surgical techs support the surgical team, enhancing efficiency and safety in the operating room.
Which certification is best for surgical technologist?
The CST credential provided by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) enables prospective surgical technologists to showcase their proficiency in clinical skills and educational foundation.
What is the highest paid surgical tech?
Top-Paying Surgical Tech Positions
- Surgical Neurophysiologist: Earning potential between $276,000 and $300,000 annually.
- Cardiovascular Surgical Tech: Salaries ranging from $74,000 to $143,000 per year.
What are the cons of being a surgical tech?
The role demands significant mental and physical endurance, requiring professionals to operate effectively in high-pressure environments where their performance directly impacts patient outcomes and safety potential risks and how the industry mitigates them for patient safety.
Is surgical tech school harder than nursing?
Well, while it may not be as rigorous as the path to becoming a registered nurse (RN), it still demands a strong foundation in biology, anatomy, and physiology to succeed.
Conclusion
In conclusion to what degree do you need to be a surgical tech, the path to becoming a surgical technologist typically starts with obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent. It is followed by completing a post-secondary education program in surgical technology. This educational journey, coupled with optional professional certifications, equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in this vital role within the healthcare field.