In an operating room, there are a couple of essential specialists. However, many think surgeons’ skills and expertise are the sole determinants of surgery success. On the contrary, a surgical technologist is also critical for a successful surgery. That is because it’s impossible to conduct surgery without a surgical technologist. If you want to join the surgical world, learning everything about the surgical technology field is paramount.
Here’s a break into surgical technology.
What is a surgical technologist?
A surgical technologist is a colleague in the operating room who prepares the space for operations. Without a surgical technologist, the surgeon’s work will be hectic and complicated.
They play a crucial role in setting up the operating room, correcting instruments, putting them in place, and sterilizing the equipment. Such professionals need a surgical technology guide for in-depth knowledge and understanding of their day-to-day tasks.
Why become a surgical technologist.
- It has better job opportunities.
Job opportunities are on the rise in the surgical technology field. You’ll not experience stagnant or declining employment opportunities. Surgical technologist services are in demand due to increased diseases and health complications. Notably, the career pays well.
- To make a difference
Although earning huge salaries is excellent, making a difference feels much better. You’ll have satisfaction in improving patients’ lives while working. Also, you won’t get bored like you would have while sitting at office desks.
How to become a surgical technologist
- Choose a surgical technologist program
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can start your career as a surgical technologist with an associate’s degree or a postsecondary certificate. Therefore, choose the right program to begin your journey. When you choose your surgical technologist program, ensure it’s accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of allied health education program (CAAHEP). Also, consider whether the faculty is certified and assess the program’s affordability.
- Begin surgical technologist coursework.
After enrolling, be dedicated to completing and earning your degree. The coursework will prepare you for caring for patients, sterilizing, preventing infections, and working with the equipment. Also, you learn clinical settings through practicums that give you real-life experience.
- Pass certified surgical technologist exam.
Passing the exams shows your seriousness and dedication as a surgical technologist. It helps you to search for jobs, that’s because the exams cover every essential a surgical tech should know.
After earning your certified surgical technologist credentials, you can enhance them by pursuing professional development and seeking recertification every four years.
- Find a surgical technologist job
Although job hunting can be overwhelming, you can land a job quickly with the above credentials.
Surgical technologist duties
Surgical technologist’s Day-to-day responsibilities include.
- Passing instruments to the surgeon during surgeries.
- Minimizing the risk of infection by maintaining a sterile environment
- Cleaning and disinfecting surgical rooms
- Stocking operating room with necessary supplies
- Transferring patients to the recovery room.
- Applying bandages to patients and transporting the operating room.
Necessary skills you need as a surgical technologist.
- Good communication skills.
You’ll be given urgent instructions or communication during the surgery. You then need to possess high-level education skills and active listening. Remember, misunderstanding in the operating room is a grave mistake.
- Reliable and dedicated
You have to rely on your work without delays such as late arrivals.
- Ability to work as a team.
You’ll work with surgeons, nurses, and other staff as a surgical technologist. Therefore, you must be able to work with them to take directions.
- Calm and ready for surprises.
Since you’ll encounter different health conditions, you must be calm and ready for surprises. That will enable you to perform your tasks efficiently under any conditions.
- Willingness to learn
You must be willing to learn for the sake of present and future scenarios in your job.
- Coordination and critical thinking.
You must be able to modify your action per others’ actions. That means you must be a critical thinker.
Surgical technologist career path
As a surgical technologist, you have many career options requiring different skills and responsibilities. Such include Anesthesia, heart surgery, neurosurgery, organ transplant, pharmacology, sterilization, etc.
Conclusion
In a world where medical services are in high demand, surgical technologist is essential. They help the surgeon and have a better understanding of the surgical procedures. However, without the necessary knowledge, you can put the patient lives at risk.
