Sunday 8 September 2013

Surgical Technologist: Making Your Move

By Modesta Worthey


There is an excellent opportunity being presented by many healthcare careers these days, and the surgical technologist career is no exception. But unlike being a doctor or surgeon, you don't have to undergo a decade of training just to get started working and earn a high salary. Your primary role will be to help surgeons - that is before, during, and after surgical procedures.

Among the perks of being as a surgical technologist is that they get to work in well-lighted, air-conditioned, and clean environments. Despite this, anyone who wants to take part in this career will have to be prepared for the unpleasant sight and sounds while assisting in surgical procedures. It is common to be standing for long hours and to have at least a 40-hour work week.

In order to start your surgical technologist career in the right track, you must first undergo an formal training program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). You should be able to find these training programs in most colleges and universities and will take anywhere from 9 to 24 months to complete.

Accredited surgical technologist training program will primarily consist of classroom instruction and practical experience via internships. Among the courses you will be taking are medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, medical ethics, pharmacology, and microbiology. To make sure you are taking an accredited program, refer to the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

While there is no shortage of surgical technologist jobs, you must be aware that competition can still get tight and therefore it would be wise to ensure that your resume will impress employers. One way of doing this is by securing a certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). This is an excellent way of proving your level of proficiency and competency.

As a surgical technologist, your primary source of employment would be in general medical and surgical hospitals. But because of the excellent employment opportunities and better employment growth, many surgical techs are also finding their place in outpatient care centers, doctor's offices, and mobile surgical centers. Employment growth for this career is forecasted at the rate of 25 percent through the year 2018.




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