What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a crucial member of the surgical team. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure successful surgical procedures. Some of their responsibilities include preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons during surgeries.

Where does a Surgical Technician work?

Surgical technicians can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and outpatient clinics. They may also find employment opportunities in dental offices, birthing centers, or even in the military.

How to Become a Surgical Technician in Oregon?

To become a Surgical Technician in Oregon, one must first complete an accredited Surgical Technology program, typically a 1-year certificate or 2-year associate's degree. After graduation, individuals must obtain certification by passing the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. Once certified, they can search for job opportunities in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare settings to start earning a competitive salary.

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

To become a surgical technician in Oregon, certain education and legal requirements must be met. The most common path is to 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 result in a diploma, certificate, or associate degree.

Additionally, Oregon law requires surgical technicians to be certified. The Oregon Board of Medical Imaging oversees the certification process, which involves passing a national certification examination, such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Exploring a Career in Surgical Technician Outside Oregon

If this article has sparked your interest in becoming a Surgical Technician, but you're not in the same state, don't let that hold you back. You have the chance to pursue a career as a Surgical Technician in places like Florida, Kentucky, New Hampshire, Vermont, or Wisconsin. And if none of these locations fit, Dreambound makes it easy for anyone, anywhere, to find and compare Surgical Technician classes just by searching with their zip code. With a bit of determination and the right tools at your disposal, stepping into a successful healthcare career is completely doable, no matter your current location.

How do I get my Surgical Technician certification?

Becoming a certified surgical technician is a great way to start a career in healthcare. Not only does it provide job stability and growth opportunities, but it also allows you to make a difference in people's lives by assisting in life-saving surgeries. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a surgical technician, here's what you need to know about getting your certification.

1. Research the requirements: The first step in getting your surgical technician certification is to research the requirements in your state or country. While the basic requirements may be similar, there may be specific regulations or additional certifications needed depending on where you live. For example, in the United States, surgical technicians need to pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

2. Complete an accredited program: To be eligible for certification, you must complete an accredited surgical technology program. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and universities. The length of the program can vary, but it generally takes around 9 to 24 months to complete. During the program, you'll learn about surgical procedures, sterile techniques, patient care, and other essential skills needed to excel in this field.

3. Gain hands-on experience: In addition to classroom instruction, most surgical technology programs require students to complete a certain number of clinical hours. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing the skills and confidence needed to work in a surgical setting. It also allows you to observe and learn from experienced surgical technicians and other healthcare professionals. Make the most of your clinical hours by actively engaging with the surgical team and taking initiative to learn new skills.

4. Prepare for the certification exam: Once you've completed your surgical technology program, it's time to start preparing for the certification exam. The CST exam is a comprehensive test that covers a wide range of topics, including surgical procedures, patient care, anatomy and physiology, and sterile techniques. There are several resources available to help you study, including textbooks, online courses, and practice exams. Take advantage of these resources to ensure you're well-prepared for the exam.

5. Take the certification exam: After you've prepared for the exam, it's time to schedule and take the CST exam. The exam is computer-based and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. You'll have four hours to complete the exam, and a passing score is required to become certified. If you don't pass the exam on your first attempt, don't get discouraged. You can retake the exam after a certain period of time, and there are resources available to help you identify areas where you need to improve.

6. Maintain your certification: Once you've passed the certification exam and become a certified surgical technician, you'll need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits. This ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and best practices in surgical technology. The NBSTSA requires certified surgical technologists to earn 60 continuing education credits over a four-year period. These credits can be obtained through various activities, such as attending workshops, conferences, and online courses.

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 tips to help you get started on your job search and increase your chances of landing a job as a surgical technician.

1. Update your resume and cover letter: Before you start applying for jobs, take the time to update your resume and cover letter. Highlight your certification, education, clinical experience, and any relevant skills or qualifications. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job application, emphasizing the skills and experiences that align with the specific job requirements. Make sure to proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors.

2. Network: Networking is an essential part of any job search, and it can greatly increase your chances of finding job opportunities. Reach out to your instructors, classmates, and clinical preceptors to let them know that you're looking for a job as a surgical technician. Attend industry conferences, job fairs, and professional events to meet professionals in the field and make valuable connections. You never know when a networking opportunity might lead to a job offer.

3. Utilize online job boards: Online job boards are a great resource for finding job openings in the healthcare industry, including surgical technician positions. Websites such as Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn have dedicated sections for healthcare jobs where you can search for surgical technician positions in your area. Set up job alerts to receive notifications when new job openings are posted, and be proactive in submitting your application as soon as you find a job that interests you.

4. Contact local healthcare facilities: Reach out directly to local hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities to inquire about job openings. Even if they don't have any current vacancies, they may keep your resume on file for future reference. Consider volunteering or working part-time in a related role, such as a patient care technician or surgical assistant, to gain experience and increase your chances of being hired as a surgical technician in the future.

5. Prepare for interviews: Once you start getting calls for interviews, it's important to prepare thoroughly. Research the facility and the specific surgical department you're applying to, so you can speak knowledgeably about their services and patient population. Review common interview questions and practice your responses. Be prepared to demonstrate your technical skills and problem-solving abilities during the interview. Dress professionally, arrive on time, and bring copies of your resume and any relevant certifications or licenses.

6. Continue learning and growing: Once you've landed a job as a surgical technician, your learning journey doesn't stop. The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and it's important to stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in surgical technology. Take advantage of any continuing education opportunities offered by your employer, such as workshops, conferences, and online courses. Seek out opportunities to expand your skills and take on additional responsibilities within your role.

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 industry. While many surgical technicians work in hospitals, there are also opportunities in outpatient surgical centers, physician's offices, and other healthcare settings. Here are some potential career paths and opportunities you can explore after becoming a surgical technician.

1. Surgical First Assistant: With additional education and training, surgical technicians can become surgical first assistants. As a surgical first assistant, you'll work closely with the surgeon, providing direct assistance during surgeries. This may include suturing wounds, controlling bleeding, and ensuring the surgical field remains sterile. To become a surgical first assistant, you'll need to complete a surgical first assisting program and pass a certification exam.

2. Surgical Technology Educator: If you enjoy teaching and sharing your knowledge with others, a career as a surgical technology educator may be a good fit for you. As an educator, you'll have the opportunity to teach aspiring surgical technicians in educational institutions, such as community colleges or vocational schools. This role allows you to contribute to the future of the profession by training and mentoring the next generation of surgical technicians.

3. Surgical Sales Representative: Surgical sales representatives play a crucial role in the healthcare industry by promoting and selling surgical equipment and supplies to healthcare facilities. This career path allows you to combine your knowledge of surgical procedures and equipment with your interpersonal and sales skills. Surgical sales representatives often work for medical device companies and pharmaceutical companies, and they may travel extensively to meet with clients and attend conferences.

4. Operating Room Supervisor: As you gain experience and demonstrate leadership skills, you may have the opportunity to advance to a supervisory or management role in the operating room. Operating room supervisors are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the surgical department, coordinating staffing, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering a positive and efficient work environment. This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to handle high-stress situations.

5. Surgical Technologist Specialist: Some surgical technicians choose to specialize in a specific area of surgery, such as orthopedics, cardiovascular, or neurosurgery. By specializing, you'll develop expertise in a particular surgical specialty and become an invaluable member of the surgical team. Specialization often requires additional education and training, as well as obtaining certifications specific to the chosen specialty.

6. Further Education and Advanced Degrees: If you're interested in advancing your career even further, you can consider pursuing further education and advanced degrees. Some surgical technicians go on to become registered nurses or physician assistants, while others pursue degrees in healthcare administration or healthcare management. These advanced degrees can open up opportunities for leadership roles and higher salaries within the healthcare industry.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified surgical technician is an excellent career choice for those interested in healthcare and surgery. It offers job stability, growth opportunities, and the chance to make a difference in people's lives. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your surgical technician certification and start your journey towards a fulfilling and rewarding career. Remember to continuously update your skills, network with professionals in the field, and stay curious and passionate about your work. Good luck on your journey to becoming a surgical technician!

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