What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical technician, also known as a surgical technologist, is a healthcare professional who plays a crucial role in the operating room. They work alongside surgeons, nurses, and other surgical team members to ensure that surgical procedures are carried out smoothly and safely. Some of their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, handing instruments to surgeons during procedures, and monitoring patients' vital signs.

Where does a Surgical Technician work?

Surgical technicians can work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, and outpatient clinics. They may also find employment in dental offices, research facilities, and even the military. These professionals are in high demand, and their skills are essential in any setting where surgery is performed.

How to Become a Surgical Technician in Wisconsin?

To become a Surgical Technician in Wisconsin, one must first complete an accredited education program, typically a 1-year certificate or 2-year associate's degree. After graduating, individuals must pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam to obtain certification. With the proper certification, they can then search for job opportunities to start their career as a Surgical Technician.

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

To become a surgical technician in Wisconsin, you must meet certain education and legal requirements. First, you need 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 take 9 to 24 months to complete and can be found at vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

After completing your education, you must pass the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) certification exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). This certification is recognized nationwide and is an important credential for securing employment as a surgical technician.

Additionally, Wisconsin requires surgical technicians to be licensed by the Department of Safety and Professional Services. To obtain a license, you must submit an application, pay the required fees, and provide proof of education and certification.

Exploring a Career in Surgical Technician Outside Wisconsin

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, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, 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 a great career choice for those who are interested in the medical field and have a passion for assisting surgeons in the operating room. Surgical Technicians, also known as Surgical Technologists, play a crucial role in ensuring that surgeries run smoothly and efficiently.

To become a certified Surgical Technician, there are a few steps that you need to follow. These steps may vary slightly depending on the state you are in, but generally, the requirements remain the same.

1. Research and choose an accredited program: The first step in becoming a certified Surgical Technician is to research and choose an accredited program. There are several options available, including community colleges, technical schools, and hospitals. Make sure to choose a program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This ensures that you will receive a quality education and be eligible to sit for the certification exam.

2. Complete a Surgical Technician program: Once you have chosen an accredited program, you will need to complete a Surgical Technician program. These programs typically take between 9 months to 2 years to complete, depending on whether you choose a certificate, diploma, or associate degree program. During the program, you will learn a variety of topics, including sterilization techniques, surgical procedures, anatomy, and medical terminology. You will also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations in hospitals or surgical centers.

3. Apply for certification: After completing your Surgical Technician program, you will need to apply for certification. The certification exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible to sit for the exam, you must have completed a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as pre-operative preparation, intra-operative procedures, and post-operative care.

4. Pass the certification exam: Once you have applied for certification, you will need to pass the certification exam. The exam is computer-based and can be taken at a Pearson VUE testing center. To pass the exam, you must achieve a minimum score of 70%. If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt, you can retake it after a 90-day waiting period.

5. Maintain certification: Once you have passed the certification exam, you will be a certified Surgical Technician. However, it is important to note that certification is not permanent and must be renewed every four years. To maintain your certification, you will need to earn continuing education credits and pay a renewal fee.

How do I get a job as a Surgical Technician?

After becoming a certified Surgical Technician, the next step is to find a job in the field. The demand for Surgical Technicians is expected to grow in the coming years, making it a favorable career choice. Here are some steps to help you get a job as a Surgical Technician:

1. Prepare a professional resume: The first step in getting a job as a Surgical Technician is to prepare a professional resume. Your resume should highlight your education, certifications, clinical experience, and any relevant skills or qualifications. Make sure to tailor your resume to the specific job you are applying for, focusing on your relevant experience and skills.

2. Network: Networking is an important aspect of finding a job in any field. Reach out to your instructors, classmates, and other professionals in the healthcare industry. Attend job fairs, conferences, and other events to connect with potential employers. Networking can often lead to job opportunities that may not be advertised.

3. Apply for jobs: Start applying for Surgical Technician positions once you have a polished resume and have networked with professionals in the field. Look for job openings at hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities. You can also search online job boards and websites that specialize in healthcare job listings.

4. Prepare for interviews: Once you start receiving interview invitations, it is important to prepare for the interviews. Research the organization and familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and services. Practice common interview questions and prepare examples of how you have demonstrated your skills and abilities in previous experiences. Dress professionally for the interviews and arrive prepared with questions to ask the interviewer.

5. Continuing education: After securing a job as a Surgical Technician, it is important to continue learning and growing in the field. Stay updated with the latest advancements in surgical technology and techniques. Consider pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees to enhance your skills and increase your career opportunities.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Surgical Technician

Becoming a certified Surgical Technician opens up various career paths and opportunities within the healthcare industry. While many Surgical Technicians work in hospitals, there are other settings where they can find employment. Here are some career paths and opportunities available to Surgical Technicians:

1. Operating Room Technician: Surgical Technicians can choose to specialize as Operating Room Technicians. In this role, they assist surgeons during surgeries and ensure that the operating room is properly prepared and equipped. Operating Room Technicians are responsible for sterilizing instruments, preparing surgical trays, and assisting with patient positioning.

2. Surgical First Assistant: With additional education and experience, Surgical Technicians can become Surgical First Assistants. This role involves working closely with surgeons during surgeries, providing direct assistance and performing specific tasks under the surgeon's guidance. Surgical First Assistants have an expanded scope of practice and may be involved in wound closure, suturing, and other advanced procedures.

3. Surgical Technology Educator: Some Surgical Technicians choose to become educators and share their knowledge and skills with aspiring Surgical Technicians. They may work in colleges, vocational schools, or hospitals, teaching students the necessary skills to become Surgical Technicians. This career path allows Surgical Technicians to contribute to the future of the profession.

4. Product Specialist: Surgical Technicians can also work as product specialists for medical device companies. In this role, they provide technical support and training to healthcare professionals on the proper use of surgical instruments and equipment. Product specialists may also be involved in product demonstrations and sales.

5. Surgical Services Supervisor: With experience and leadership skills, Surgical Technicians can advance to supervisory or managerial roles. Surgical Services Supervisors oversee the day-to-day operations of the surgical department, ensuring that surgeries are scheduled efficiently, staff is properly trained, and equipment is maintained.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified Surgical Technician is a rewarding career choice for those interested in the medical field. By completing an accredited Surgical Technician program and passing the certification exam, you can start your journey towards a fulfilling career as a Surgical Technician. The demand for Surgical Technicians is expected to grow, providing plenty of job opportunities in various healthcare settings. With experience and additional education, Surgical Technicians can also explore different career paths and advance in their profession. So, if you are passionate about assisting in surgeries and ensuring the smooth operation of the operating room, consider becoming a Surgical Technician.

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