Surgeons can’t accomplish it alone. Surgical technologists can help with that. But how long does it take to become a surgical tech? You can learn about the precise steps involved in becoming a surgical tech here.

Although surgeons perform surgeries, their entire medical team is essential to ensuring a positive outcome and the wellbeing of patients. Normally you’ll need to undergo full-time enrollment for two years in order to complete it.

To help you move toward your objectives in the right direction, we’ll go into great detail in this career guide about how to become a surgical technologist.

What is a Surgical Technologist?

Surgical technicians, also known as surgical techs, make sure that everything goes smoothly in the They set up the OR (Operating Room) for surgery, assist the medical staff and the surgeons during the procedure, and clean the space afterward.

Surgical technologists must learn about human anatomy, surgical principles, and the proper use of sterile techniques. They work as a surgeon’s right hand and help them perform surgery without hiccups and hurdles.

What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

With both invasive and noninvasive procedures, surgical technologists collaborate closely with surgeons. Daily duties and tasks they may encounter include:

• Preparing the operating room for upcoming surgeries
• Sterilizing equipment and stocking up on any supplies needed
• Preparing patients for their procedure and any aftercare necessary
• Assisting doctors during surgical procedures
• Taking inventory of supplies and maintaining records of procedures

How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgical Tech?

An associate surgical technology program, just like most associate’s degrees, is typically based on 64 to 66 credits. You’ll need to undergo full-time enrollment for two years in order to complete it.

However, some certificate programs and diplomas can be completed within 12 months.

Remember that you must attend classroom instruction as part of every surgical tech degree. Some courses such as dermatology and pediatric surgical technologist programs involve specialized training as well.

Related Post: How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgeon?

How to Become a Surgical Technologist?

Step 1: Apply to An Accredited Program

Your knowledge and skills will be prepared by educational programs so that you can succeed as a surgical technician. A program must be completed and accredited by either the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). At Baker College, we are accredited by the CAAHEP for our surgical technology degree.

Step 2: Get Your Degree

You must earn an associate’s degree, diploma, or certificate in surgical technology before you can become certified. This educational program is made to help students put the knowledge they learn in class to use in clinical externships.

Classwork

Surgical technology is a broad field, and the coursework includes general courses within it. This carefully crafted curriculum includes classes on microbiology, surgical techniques, patient safety, aseptic procedures, and more. It combines classroom theory with practical experience.

Clinical

Students also participate in clinical internships to gain hands-on patient experience with surgical professionals, as well as documenting procedural records. Students who participate in internships have the chance to gain practical experience in hospital settings and operating rooms.

Step 3: Pass the Certification Exam

Keep in mind that each state has different requirements to obtain your surgical technologist certificate as you submit applications for these certification exams.

The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) examinations are the two most important ones in Michigan. Students who are taking the CST exam offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting have access to exam preparation materials and other resources to help them study for and pass the exam.

Step 4: Start Working in the Field

You can begin working in the field as soon as you pass your exam. More than 70% of surgical technologists work in hospitals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, you can look for work in dental and medical offices.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Being a Surgical Technologist?

The followings are the pros and cons of being a surgical technologist.

Pros

• The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the field of surgical technology will grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, which ensures job security.
• Since the surgical technology course can be finished in 12 to 24 months, it enables people to enter the field quickly.
• According to ONET Online, the average annual salary of a surgical technologist is $48,530 ($23.33 per hour). It’s the 17^th highest paying job without a degree.
• By saving lives, your job as a surgical technologist gives you the chance to change the world every day. Consequently, there is a high level of job satisfaction.

Cons

• The role of surgical tech is very demanding and it can be exhausting at times. For the duration of your shift, you must remain mobile. In case of an emergency, you might also need to get to work on the weekends.
• Work requires you to handle dangerous substances like blood and bodily fluids as well as sharp objects like needles and blades. It can be extremely dangerous if you’re not careful.
• You won’t have room for error. It can be stressful to set up the operating room because the surgical procedures are very important and call for extra caution.

Summary: How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgical Tech

Even though the surgeon gets all the credit for a successful surgery, the life of a patient depends in a very large part on the diligence and competence of the surgical technologist.

It takes anywhere from 12 to 24 months (after graduating from high school) to become a surgical technologist.

Although training to become a surgical technologist takes less time than other highly specialized medical careers, it still requires commitment and effort.

A career as a surgical technologist might be the best choice for you if you want to enter the field quickly and are passionate about saving lives.

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