Surgical technologists, commonly called surgery techs or operating room (OR) techs, play a vital role in the medical field by assisting surgeons, nurses, and other professionals during surgical procedures. If you’re considering entering this fast-paced and rewarding career, completing a surgery tech program is your first step.
What is a Surgery Tech Program?
A surgery tech program is a formal educational path that prepares individuals for careers as surgical technologists. These programs typically include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. They focus on teaching students how to maintain a sterile surgical environment, assist surgeons by passing instruments, and ensure patient safety throughout the surgical procedure.
What You Learn in a Surgery Tech Program
Surgery tech programs cover a variety of topics that are crucial for success in the field:
- Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the human body is critical when assisting in surgeries. Students learn about bodily systems, organs, and tissues, providing a foundation for assisting in different types of procedures.
- Medical Terminology: Surgery techs need to communicate clearly with surgeons and other medical professionals. Medical terminology is essential for understanding instructions and relaying information during procedures.
- Sterilization Techniques: Maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room is essential to prevent infections. Students are trained in sterilizing instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and following strict hygiene protocols.
- Surgical Procedures: Students gain knowledge about common surgeries, such as appendectomies, C-sections, and joint replacements. They also learn the specific instruments used in various procedures.
- Patient Care: Surgery techs assist with patient preparation, including positioning and ensuring the patient’s comfort and safety before and after surgery.
- Ethics and Professionalism: The program covers medical ethics, patient confidentiality, and the importance of professionalism in the operating room.
Types of Surgery Tech Programs
There are two main types of surgery tech programs:
- Certificate or Diploma Programs: These are shorter programs, typically lasting 12 to 18 months. They focus on the practical skills required to become a surgical technologist and often include an externship where students gain hands-on experience in a real operating room.
- Associate Degree Programs: These programs last about two years and offer a more comprehensive education, including general education courses like math and English, in addition to specialized surgical technology courses. Graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Surgical Technology.
Accreditation and Certification
When choosing a surgery tech program, it’s essential to ensure that it is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards of quality education.
Upon completing a surgery tech program, graduates can become certified by passing the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Certification is not always required but is highly recommended as it can improve job prospects and earning potential.
Hands-On Training: The Clinical Experience
A key component of surgery tech programs is the clinical experience. Students typically complete clinical rotations in hospitals, where they apply their classroom knowledge in real-life settings. This practical experience allows students to work alongside experienced surgical teams, gaining confidence and honing their skills.
Career Outlook and Salary
The demand for surgical technologists is growing, thanks in part to advancements in medical technology and an increase in surgical procedures as the population ages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job market for surgical techs is expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, faster than the average for all occupations.
Salaries for surgical technologists vary by location, level of experience, and employer. The median annual wage for surgery techs is approximately $50,000, with those working in specialized areas such as orthopedic or cardiovascular surgery potentially earning higher wages.
Conclusion
Surgery tech programs offer an excellent pathway to a fulfilling career in healthcare. Whether you choose a certificate or associate degree program, becoming a surgical technologist can open doors to a fast-paced, high-demand field. With the right training, you’ll be well-prepared to assist in life-saving surgeries and contribute to the well-being of patients.