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Online Surgical Tech classes

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Are you looking for a fulfilling career in the medical field? Consider becoming a surgical technologist! Surgical techs play a vital role in operating rooms, ensuring surgeries run smoothly and successfully. We'll help you find reputable training providers for your online Surgical Tech journey!

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What is a Surgical Technician?

A surgical tech or operating room technician, plays a vital role in the operating room. Your primary responsibilities include:

Preparing the operating room
Arranging surgical instruments and equipment
Assisting surgeons and nurses during surgical procedures

You ensure that all necessary supplies are available, sterile, and ready for use. During surgical operations, you maintain a sterile field by passing instruments, handling specimens, and providing essential assistance to the surgical team. Your in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, anatomy, and medical terminology allows you to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond promptly. Your attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure contribute to the smooth and successful execution of surgical interventions.

Certificate/Diploma vs Associate Degree

Aspiring surgical technicians have two main educational pathways to choose from: a certificate/diploma program or an associate degree program. Both options provide the necessary training and prepare students for entry-level positions, but they differ in terms of duration, depth, and potential for career advancement.

Certificate/Diploma programs

These programs typically take 9 to 12 months to complete and focus primarily on the technical aspects of surgical technology. Students receive hands-on training in areas such as surgical procedures, instrumentation, sterilization techniques, and patient care. Certificate/diploma programs are often offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or hospitals.

Associate Degree programs

An associate degree in surgical technology generally takes two years to complete and combines technical training with general education courses. In addition to surgical technology courses, students study subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and medical terminology. Associate degree programs provide a more well-rounded education and may offer better job prospects and opportunities for career advancement.

Requirements to enroll in a Surgical Tech class

To enroll in a surgical tech program, whether a certificate/diploma or an associate degree, students typically need to meet the following admission requirements:

High school diploma or GED equivalent
Satisfactory scores on entrance exams (if required by the program)
Completion of prerequisite courses, such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics
Up-to-date immunization records
CPR certification
Background check and drug screening (required by most programs)

Some programs may also require students to have completed certain healthcare-related courses or to have prior experience in a medical setting.

What you'll learn in a Surgical Tech class

The course outline for surgical technology programs covers both theoretical and practical aspects of the field. While the specific courses may vary among institutions, most programs include the following core components:

Introduction to surgical technology
Anatomy and physiology
Medical terminology
Surgical procedures and instrumentation
Sterilization and infection control
Surgical pharmacology
Surgical patient care
Operating room protocols and safety
Legal and ethical considerations
Clinical practicums or externships

Surgical technology programs incorporate classroom instruction, laboratory simulations, and clinical rotations in various surgical specialties. Students gain hands-on experience in preparing operating rooms, handling surgical instruments, and assisting during actual surgical procedures under the supervision of experienced professionals.

Where to find the right online Surgical Tech classes

Navigating online surgical technician programs can be overwhelming. At Dreambound, we’ve created a platform to help you explore career-focused education opportunities, including surgical technician classes. Our search engine lets you compare online program options from different institutions, considering factors like cost, program duration, and degree level. Plus, our AI-driven career coach can help you find a suitable surgical technician program tailored to your background and aspirations, providing personalized support throughout your educational journey.

You can explore the following resources and find surgical technician classes near you. If your city isn't listed, our platform allows you to search by zip code.

Get courses selected just for you

Try our powerful search engine

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Where can I get certification?

Surgical technicians can obtain certification through professional organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). These organizations offer nationally recognized certifications that validate a surgical technician's knowledge and skills. Certification typically requires completing an accredited surgical technology program and passing a comprehensive exam.

Do I need to be licensed to work as a Surgical Technician?

Licensing requirements for surgical technicians vary by state. Some states require surgical technicians to be licensed, while others do not have specific licensing regulations. In states where licensing is mandatory, surgical technicians must meet certain educational and certification requirements and obtain a license from the state's appropriate regulatory body before they can practice.

How much do Surgical Technicians earn?

The salary for surgical technicians can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists in 2023 was $60,370.

Where do Surgical Technicians work?

Surgical technicians typically work in hospital operating rooms, but they can also find employment in various healthcare settings, including:

Ambulatory surgical centers
Physician's offices specializing in outpatient surgeries
Dental offices performing oral surgeries
Military hospitals and healthcare facilities
Educational institutions for surgical technology programs

Surgical technicians play a crucial role in supporting surgical teams and ensuring the smooth operation of surgical procedures in these diverse healthcare environments.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a surgical tech degree online is a flexible and convenient option for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology. By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the online education process and become a certified surgical tech. It is important to choose an accredited online program, meet admission requirements, complete coursework and clinical experiences, obtain certification, and seek employment. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goal of becoming a surgical tech and embark on a rewarding career in the medical field.

Consider Dreambound as a valuable resource if you're thinking about getting started in this field. We've written many guides to help with the different parts of the certification process across the country:

Exploring diverse professional options? Dreambound has comprehensive guides to assist you in making well-informed decisions. Take a look at these resources:

Written by

Justine Tacmo

Justine Tacmo is part of the Growth team at Dreambound. He assists the organization by updating critical information so students receive the most up-to-date information for their desired trade schools. Besides, he has a passion for writing and expresses it through poetry, covering themes of life, love, and mental health, which is also his advocacy.

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