Surgical Technician roles are expected to grow by 6% in the coming decade. This means job opportunities are opening and more surgical techs are in demand! Here's a quick guide to help you navigate your way to this rewarding profession in the Prairie State.

Key Points

• A Surgical Technician is the backbone of the operating room. The responsibilities of a surgical tech include preparing the room, arranging surgical equipment, assisting surgeons during procedures, and maintaining a sterile environment.

• To become a Surgical Technician in Illinois, you'll need to have an HS diploma, complete a surgical technology program, pass the national certification exam, and register with the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

• The length of Surgical Technician training programs in Illinois can vary, but most can be completed in 12 to 24 months and typically cost from $1,500 to $13,000.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for a Surgical Technician in Illinois is around $59,000.

What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring that all necessary instruments are available. During surgeries, they assist the surgeon by passing instruments and supplies, handling specimens, and maintaining a sterile environment.

Where Does a Surgical Technician Work?

Surgical technicians can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and physicians' offices. They may also find employment in dental offices, ambulatory surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities that perform surgical procedures.

How to Become a Surgical Technician in Illinois?

To become a Surgical Technician in Illinois, one must first complete an accredited surgical technology program, which typically takes 1-2 years to finish. After graduation, the individual must then pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam to earn their certification. With the CST certification, they can then search for and secure employment as a Surgical Technician, earning a competitive salary.

Requirements to Become a Surgical Technician in Illinois

To become a surgical technician in Illinois, you must meet certain education and legal requirements. These include:

1. Education: You must complete a surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically last 9-24 months and include classroom instruction as well as hands-on clinical experience.

2. Certification: While certification is not legally required in Illinois, most employers prefer to hire certified surgical technicians. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can be obtained by passing an exam.

3. Legal Requirements: In Illinois, surgical technicians are not required to obtain a state license. However, they must work under the supervision of a licensed physician or surgeon.

Exploring a Career in Surgical Technician Outside Illinois

If you're eager to start a career as a Surgical Technician but are situated in a different state, don't be discouraged. Your opportunity to work as a Surgical Technician might be found in Alaska, Iowa, New Hampshire, Vermont, or Wyoming. If you don't live near these areas, Dreambound offers a straightforward solution to scout and compare Surgical Technician classes by searching with your zip code. No matter where you live, with dedication and the right resources, carving out a career in healthcare is within your reach.

How do I get my Surgical Technician certification?

Becoming a certified surgical technician is an important step in starting your career in the medical field. It demonstrates your competence and knowledge in assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. In order to obtain your surgical technician certification, you need to follow these steps:

Step 1. Research and Choose an Accredited Program

The first step is to research and choose an accredited surgical technician program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets the necessary standards and will provide you with the knowledge and skills required for the certification. Look for programs that are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).

Step 2. Complete the Required Education

Once you have chosen a program, you need to complete the required education. Most surgical technician programs can be completed in 9 to 24 months, depending on whether you choose a certificate, diploma, or associate degree program. The program will include both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Step 3. Apply for and Pass the Certification Exam

After completing your education, you will need to apply for the certification exam. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers various topics, including anatomy and physiology, surgical procedures, and patient care. To pass the exam, you need to score at least 70%.

Step 4. Maintain Your Certification

Once you have passed the certification exam, you will need to maintain your certification by meeting certain requirements. You will need to renew your certification every four years and complete continuing education credits. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and practices in surgical technology.

By following these steps, you can obtain your surgical technician certification and start your career in this rewarding field.

How do I get a job as a Surgical Technician?

Once you have obtained your surgical technician certification, the next step is to find a job in the field. Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired as a surgical technician:

1. Update Your Resume: Start by updating your resume to highlight your education, certification, and any relevant experience. Include any clinical rotations or internships you completed during your surgical technician program. Also, mention any additional certifications or specialized training you have completed.

2. Network: Networking is an important part of finding a job in any field. Reach out to your instructors, classmates, and other professionals in the healthcare industry to let them know you are looking for a job. Attend job fairs and industry events to meet potential employers and make connections.

3. Apply for Jobs: Look for job openings at hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Check job boards, company websites, and professional organizations for job listings. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job you apply for, highlighting your relevant skills and experience.

4. Prepare for Interviews: Once you start getting interview requests, take the time to prepare. Research the company and the specific role you are applying for. Practice answering common interview questions and prepare examples of how you have demonstrated the required skills in the past. Dress professionally and arrive on time for the interview.

5. Continuing Education: To stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired, consider continuing your education. Take additional courses or workshops to expand your knowledge and skills in specific areas. This will demonstrate your commitment to your profession and make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

By following these steps and putting in the effort, you can increase your chances of getting a job as a surgical technician.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Surgical Technician

Becoming a surgical technician opens up various career paths and opportunities within the healthcare industry. Here are some potential career paths you can explore after obtaining your surgical technician certification:

1. Operating Room Technician: Many surgical technicians work directly in the operating room, assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. As an operating room technician, you will prepare the operating room, sterilize surgical instruments, and assist with patient care. You will also be responsible for maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring the safety of the patient.

2. Surgical Technologist Educator: If you enjoy teaching and sharing your knowledge with others, you can pursue a career as a surgical technologist educator. In this role, you will teach and train aspiring surgical technicians. You will develop curriculum, create lesson plans, and provide hands-on training in the classroom and clinical settings.

3. Surgical Sales Representative: Another career path you can consider is becoming a surgical sales representative. In this role, you will work for medical device companies, selling surgical instruments and equipment to hospitals and surgical centers. You will need a deep understanding of surgical procedures and the ability to effectively communicate the benefits of the products you are selling.

4. Surgical First Assistant: With additional training and experience, you can become a surgical first assistant. In this role, you will work directly alongside the surgeon, providing assistance during surgical procedures. You will have more responsibilities, such as suturing wounds, controlling bleeding, and ensuring the patient's safety.

5. Travel Surgical Technician: If you enjoy traveling and experiencing new environments, you can become a travel surgical technician. Travel surgical technicians work on short-term assignments at different healthcare facilities across the country. This allows you to gain experience in different settings and work with a variety of surgical teams.

These are just a few examples of the career paths and opportunities available to surgical technicians. The field of surgical technology is constantly evolving, and there are always new opportunities emerging. By continuing your education and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements, you can open up even more career possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Illinois require surgical techs to be certified?

In Illinois, surgical techs are required by law to be certified. As of January 2024, the Illinois State Assembly introduced Senate Bill 2653, which requires hospitals to hire surgical technicians who have graduated from accredited programs and passed a national certifying exam.

How much does a certified surgical tech make in Illinois?

A certified surgical tech in Illinois can expect to earn an average annual salary of $59,860, $28.78 per hour according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2023).

Is a Surgical Technician the same as a surgical technologist?

Yes, a Surgical Technician and a Surgical Technologist are the same role and both terms are used interchangeably in the medical field.

How long does it take to become a surgical tech in Illinois?

Becoming a surgical tech in Illinois typically takes 12 to 24 months and the level of education can be completing a diploma, certificate, or associate's degree program. Remember, this timeline may be longer considering the preparation and time allotted for taking the national certifying exam.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified surgical technician is an excellent career choice for those interested in the medical field. It offers a rewarding and challenging work environment, with plenty of opportunities for growth and advancement. By following the steps to obtain your certification, networking, and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements, you can increase your chances of finding a job and building a successful career as a surgical technician.

Whether you choose to work directly in the operating room, become an educator, or explore other career paths, the skills and knowledge you gain as a surgical technician will be valuable throughout your career. So, take the first step today and start your journey towards becoming a certified surgical technician.

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