Surgical Technologist

Surgical Technologists play a vital role in the healthcare industry, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. They prepare the operating room, ensure that all necessary equipment and supplies are available, and assist the surgical team throughout the operation. Surgical Technologists must have a strong understanding of surgical procedures, anatomy, and medical terminology. They also need to be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

Surgical Technologists have a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Preparing the operating room for surgery, including setting up equipment and supplies
• Assisting the surgical team during surgery, including passing instruments and assisting with wound closure
• Monitoring the patient's vital signs and assisting with anesthesia
• Cleaning and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment
• Maintaining the operating room inventory

Education and Training

Surgical Technologists typically need an associate degree in surgical technology. Some programs may also require additional training or experience. Surgical Technologists must also be certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Career Advancement

Surgical Technologists can advance their careers by becoming certified in specific surgical specialties, such as cardiovascular surgery or neurosurgery. They can also move into management positions, such as surgical services manager or director of surgical services.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for Surgical Technologists is expected to be good over the next several years. The demand for Surgical Technologists is expected to increase as the population ages and the number of surgical procedures increases.

Skills and Knowledge

Surgical Technologists need to have a strong foundation in surgical procedures, anatomy, and medical terminology. They also need to be able to work independently and as part of a team. Other skills and knowledge that are important for Surgical Technologists include:

• Sterile technique
• Patient care
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking skills

Personality Traits and Personal Interests

Surgical Technologists typically have a strong interest in healthcare and a desire to help others. They are also typically detail-oriented, organized, and have good problem-solving skills.

Self-Guided Projects

There are a number of self-guided projects that students can complete to better prepare themselves for a career as a Surgical Technologist. These projects can help students to develop the skills and knowledge that they will need to succeed in this career. Some examples of self-guided projects that students can complete include:

• Volunteering in a hospital or surgical center
• Shadowing a Surgical Technologist
• Taking online courses in surgical technology
• Reading books and articles about surgical procedures
• Attending conferences and workshops on surgical technology

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way for students to learn about surgical technology and prepare for a career in this field. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. They can also provide students with access to a variety of learning resources, such as lecture videos, projects, assignments, quizzes, exams, discussions, and interactive labs.

Online courses can help students to develop the skills and knowledge that they need to succeed as a Surgical Technologist. However, it is important to note that online courses alone are not enough to follow a path to this career. Students who want to become Surgical Technologists will need to complete an accredited surgical technology program and become certified by the NBSTSA.