What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a vital member of the surgical team. They assist surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals during surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, handling surgical instruments, and ensuring patient safety during surgery.

Where does a Surgical Technician work?

Surgical technicians can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and physician's offices. They may also find employment in emergency rooms, delivery rooms, and dental offices.

How to Become a Surgical Technician in Mississippi?

To become a Surgical Technician in Mississippi, one must first complete an accredited surgical technology program, typically an associate's degree. Next, they must obtain certification by passing the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. With certification in hand, they can then search for job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings to start earning a competitive salary.

What are the requirements to become a Surgical Technician in Mississippi?

To become a surgical technician in Mississippi, you need to fulfill certain education and legal requirements. The first step is to earn a high school diploma or GED equivalent.

After completing high school, you must enroll in a surgical technician training 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 take 9 months to 2 years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience.

Upon graduation from a surgical technician program, you will need to pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam will grant you the certification required for employment as a surgical technician in Mississippi.

In addition to education and certification, surgical technicians must adhere to the legal requirements set by the Mississippi State Department of Health. These requirements include undergoing a criminal background check and being up to date on immunizations.

Exploring a Career in Surgical Technician Outside Mississippi

If you're aiming to pursue a career as a Surgical Technician but find yourself in a different state, remember, your goal is still within reach. You can explore opportunities to start your career as a Surgical Technician in places like Hawaii, Michigan, Missouri, Texas, or Wisconsin. If these locations don't work for you, Dreambound simplifies the journey to becoming a Surgical Technician no matter where you live. By enabling you to find and compare Surgical Technician classes with a quick zip code search, Dreambound empowers you to move forward confidently towards a rewarding career in healthcare, regardless of your current location.

How do I get my Surgical Technician certification?

If you are interested in becoming a Surgical Technician, the first step is to obtain the necessary certification. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get your Surgical Technician certification:

1. Research the Requirements: The requirements to become a Surgical Technician may vary depending on the state you reside in. It is important to research and understand the specific requirements set by your state's licensing board. In Mississippi, for example, you must complete an accredited Surgical Technology program and pass the national certification exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

2. Enroll in an Accredited Program: Look for a Surgical Technology program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs ensure that you receive quality education and training necessary to become a skilled Surgical Technician.

3. Complete the Program: Once you have enrolled in an accredited program, you will need to successfully complete the required coursework and clinical training. The program typically takes around 9-24 months to complete, depending on whether you choose a certificate, diploma, or associate degree program.

4. Prepare for the National Certification Exam: After completing your program, you will need to prepare for the national certification exam. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is widely recognized in the field. There are various resources available, such as study guides and practice exams, to help you prepare for the exam.

5. Take and Pass the Exam: Once you feel prepared, you can schedule and take the CST exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers various aspects of surgical technology, including preoperative preparation, intraoperative procedures, and postoperative care. Passing the exam demonstrates your knowledge and competency as a Surgical Technician.

6. Obtain Certification: Upon passing the CST exam, you will receive your certification as a Surgical Technician. This certification is valid for four years, after which you will need to renew it by meeting the continuing education requirements set by the NBSTSA.

7. Optional Specializations: Once you have obtained your certification, you may choose to specialize in a specific area of surgical technology, such as cardiovascular surgery, orthopedic surgery, or neurosurgery. Specializing can provide you with additional knowledge and skills in your chosen field.

How do I get a job as a Surgical Technician?

After obtaining your Surgical Technician certification, you can start searching for job opportunities. Here are the steps to help you get a job as a Surgical Technician:

1. Prepare Your Resume: Create a professional resume that highlights your education, clinical training, certification, and any relevant work experience. Include any specialized skills or knowledge that may be relevant to the position you are applying for.

2. Build a Professional Network: Networking is an important part of finding job opportunities in any field. Connect with professionals in the healthcare industry, attend job fairs, and join professional organizations related to surgical technology. Building a network can help you learn about job openings and make valuable connections.

3. Search for Job Openings: Start searching for job openings in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. Check online job boards, professional association websites, and hospital career pages for available positions. You can also reach out to surgical departments directly to inquire about any job openings.

4. Prepare for Interviews: Once you have identified job opportunities, prepare for interviews by researching the organization, familiarizing yourself with common interview questions, and practicing your answers. Be prepared to discuss your education, certification, clinical experience, and any specialized skills you possess.

5. Attend Interviews: Attend interviews when invited and present yourself professionally. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and bring copies of your resume, certification, and any other relevant documents. During the interview, showcase your knowledge, skills, and passion for the field of surgical technology.

6. Gain Hands-on Experience: If you are finding it challenging to secure a job immediately after obtaining your certification, consider gaining hands-on experience through internships, externships, or volunteer work. This can help you build your practical skills and make you more competitive in the job market.

7. Stay Updated: Stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in surgical technology. Attend conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses to enhance your knowledge and skills. Being proactive in your professional development can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.

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 of the potential career paths you can explore:

1. Operating Room Technician: As an Operating Room Technician, you will work alongside surgeons and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. You will assist with preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring the surgical team has everything they need during procedures.

2. Surgical First Assistant: With additional training and experience, you can become a Surgical First Assistant. In this role, you will work directly with the surgeon, providing hands-on assistance during surgical procedures. You may be responsible for suturing wounds, controlling bleeding, and ensuring the surgical site remains sterile.

3. Central Sterile Processing Technician: Central Sterile Processing Technicians are responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments and equipment. They play a crucial role in preventing infections and ensuring that all instruments are ready for use in the operating room.

4. Surgical Technology Educator: If you enjoy teaching and sharing your knowledge with others, you can pursue a career as a Surgical Technology Educator. In this role, you will teach aspiring Surgical Technicians in educational institutions, sharing your expertise and preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

5. Sales Representative: Some Surgical Technicians transition into sales roles, working for medical device companies or pharmaceutical companies. In this role, you will use your knowledge of surgical technology to educate healthcare professionals about products and services.

6. Surgical Technologist Supervisor/Manager: With experience and leadership skills, you can advance to a supervisory or managerial role within a surgical department. In this role, you will oversee the work of other Surgical Technicians, manage schedules, and ensure the smooth operation of the department.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Surgical Technician can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in the healthcare field. By following the steps outlined above, you can obtain your certification, secure a job, and explore various career paths within surgical technology. Remember to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field and continue to enhance your skills through professional development opportunities. Good luck on your journey to becoming a Surgical Technician!

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