As a surgical tech, you’ll be a vital member of a life- changing, life-saving team. Thanks to you, surgeries will be conducted as safely and successfully as possible , with optimal outcomes for the patients under your care. It doesn’t get much more satisfying than that!
What makes a good surgical technologist?
“A great surgical tech has not only a basic knowledge of instruments and equipment, but also he or she is actively engaged in the operation .” ... An alert and attentive surgical tech can make all the difference in the operating room, assisting surgeons and nurses and actively anticipating anything to come.
What do you need to become a surgical tech?
Prospective surgical technicians need to complete a diploma, certificate or associate’s degree program to work in the field. Diploma and certificate programs may be completed in under a year and an associate’s degree program in two years.
Is it worth being a surgical tech?
For many surgical technologists the greatest benefit of this career is the ability to work with people and to make surgeries safer for patients . As a surgical tech you will prepare patients for surgery and help them feel better about going in for a procedure. Helping people can make your work rewarding and meaningful.
Do you need a strong stomach to be a surgical tech?
Surgical techs need to have a strong stomach so they can remain calm and effective in situations such as those, while still being able to multi-task. ... The duties during surgery may include retracting tissues, applying suction, or assisting with suturing. Weak stomachs don’t fare well in such situations.
Is Surgical Tech a stressful job?
A surgical technician job can be a stressful and physically demanding job for a number of reasons: Long working hours. Physical demands. May need to be on-call, or work night shifts and weekends.
Do surgical techs do stitches?
During surgery, technologists pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgical assistants. ... They may hold retractors, cut sutures , and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.
Is it hard to get a surgical tech job?
Becoming a surgical tech isn’t nearly as difficult as becoming a doctor , but you can’t exactly waltz straight from high school into the OR, either. Be prepared to get a certificate or degree, pass muster in an internship and earn some credentials. The right skills will help, as well.
How many hours does a surgical tech work?
Most Surgical Technologists work a regular 40-hour week , although they may be on-call or work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating basis. In addition, they may be required to work a variety of shifts, as operations may be conducted at any time of the day or night.
Do surgical techs make more than nurses?
In addition, RNs earn higher salaries on average than surgical techs . According to the BLS, registered nurses on average earned more than $71,000 per year in 2018, compared with $47,000 per year for surgical techs.
Can you move up from surgical tech?
Surgical technologists may choose to advance to other healthcare occupations , such as registered nurse. Advancement to other healthcare occupations would usually require additional education, training, and/or certifications or licenses.
Where do surgical techs make the most money?
Best-Paying States for Surgical Technologists
The states and districts that pay Surgical Technologists the highest mean salary are Alaska ($67,660) , Nevada ($64,050), California ($62,510), District of Columbia ($60,740), and Minnesota ($60,090).
What skills do surgical techs need?
- Ability to work well under stressful and emergency situations.
- Able to act quickly and accurately.
- Work well with other people.
- Exhibit manual dexterity.
- Physical stamina.
- Good communication skills.
- Empathy.
Do you have to have steady hands to be a surgical tech?
You don’t need incredibly steady hands to become a surgeon . Technique and practice over time can help your control. Unless you have a condition impacting your motor control, these things can be worked on and improved.
What does a Surg Tech do?
What Surgical Technologists Do. Surgical technologists may transport patients to surgery . Surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians, assist with operations. They prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and help doctors during surgeries.
Do surgical techs work a lot?
Most surgical techs work full time , which is great for earning a good salary, but it may mean working long shifts, of 12 hours or more, a few days a week.
