What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons and other medical staff during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring a safe and aseptic environment. They also assist in positioning patients, passing surgical instruments, and monitoring vital signs during surgery.

How do I get a job as a Surgical Technician?

After obtaining 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 landing a job as a surgical technician:

1. Networking: Networking is a valuable tool when it comes to finding a job in any field, including surgical technology. Reach out to your instructors, classmates, and anyone else you may have met during your education and clinical experience. Let them know that you are looking for a job and ask if they have any leads or recommendations. Additionally, consider joining professional organizations such as the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST), which can provide networking opportunities and access to job boards.

2. Resume and Cover Letter: Create a professional resume and cover letter that highlights your education, certification, and clinical experience. Tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, emphasizing any relevant skills or experiences. Proofread your resume and cover letter carefully, and consider having someone else review them as well to ensure that there are no errors or typos.

3. Job Search: Utilize online job boards, such as Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn, to search for surgical technician job openings in your area. Many hospitals and surgical centers also have job listings on their websites. In addition to online resources, consider reaching out to local hospitals, surgical centers, and healthcare facilities directly to inquire about job opportunities. Don't forget to check the local classifieds and attend job fairs as well.

4. Interview Preparation: Once you have secured an interview, it is important to prepare thoroughly. Research the company or facility beforehand, familiarize yourself with their mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with their needs. Practice common interview questions and prepare examples that highlight your abilities and accomplishments. Dress professionally for the interview and arrive on time.

5. Continuing Education and Specialization: As you gain experience in the field, consider pursuing additional certifications or specializations to further enhance your skills and job prospects. The NBSTSA offers advanced certifications in areas such as surgical first assisting and surgical technology for the surgical assistant. These certifications require additional education and clinical experience but can open doors to higher-level positions and increased earning potential.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Surgical Technician

Becoming a certified surgical technician opens up a variety of career paths and opportunities within the healthcare field. Here are some potential career paths you can pursue after becoming a surgical technician:

1. Operating Room Technician: Many surgical technicians work in hospitals and surgical centers as operating room technicians. In this role, they assist surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures, ensuring that the operating room is properly set up, sterile, and equipped with the necessary instruments and supplies. Operating room technicians may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, positioning them on the operating table, and monitoring their vital signs during the procedure.

2. Surgical Assistant: With additional education and certification, surgical technicians can become surgical assistants. Surgical assistants work closely with surgeons during surgical procedures, providing direct assistance by handing instruments, suturing incisions, and controlling bleeding. They may also be responsible for pre-operative and post-operative patient care, including wound care and dressing changes. Surgical assistants often have a higher level of autonomy and responsibility compared to surgical technicians.

3. Surgical Technology Educator: Some surgical technicians choose to pursue a career in education, teaching aspiring surgical technicians in academic institutions or vocational schools. This role involves developing and delivering curriculum, providing hands-on instruction in the clinical setting, and evaluating students' progress and competency. Surgical technology educators play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of surgical technicians.

4. Sales Representative: Pharmaceutical and medical device companies often hire surgical technicians as sales representatives to promote and sell their products to healthcare providers. In this role, surgical technicians use their knowledge and expertise to educate healthcare professionals about the benefits and usage of specific surgical instruments, equipment, or pharmaceuticals. Sales representatives may also provide training and support to healthcare providers on how to use the products effectively.

5. Travel Surgical Technician: For those who enjoy traveling, becoming a travel surgical technician can be an exciting career choice. Travel surgical technicians work on short-term assignments at different healthcare facilities across the country. This allows them to gain diverse experience, work in different surgical specialties, and explore new places. Travel surgical technicians often receive higher pay rates and benefits compared to their counterparts in permanent positions.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified surgical technician is a rewarding career choice that offers a variety of opportunities for personal and professional growth. By completing a formal education program, gaining hands-on experience, passing a certification exam, and staying current with continuing education, you can enter the field with confidence and competence.

Networking, preparing a professional resume and cover letter, conducting a thorough job search, and excelling in interviews can help you secure a job as a surgical technician. Once you have gained experience, you can explore different career paths and specializations within the field.

Whether you choose to work as an operating room technician, pursue additional certifications, become an educator, work in sales, or travel as a surgical technician, the possibilities are endless. With a strong foundation as a certified surgical technician, you can make a positive impact on patients' lives and contribute to the success of surgical teams.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

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