What is a Surgical Technician?

A Surgical Technician, also known as a Surgical Technologist, is a crucial member of the healthcare team. They assist surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals during surgical procedures by preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and ensuring the surgical site is properly prepared. Surgical Technicians play a vital role in maintaining a sterile and organized environment, enabling the surgical team to focus on the procedure at hand.

Training Requirements

To become a Surgical Technician, individuals typically need to complete a postsecondary educational program, such as a certificate or diploma program. These programs, which can be found at community colleges, technical schools, or vocational schools, usually take between 9 and 24 months to complete. During this time, students will receive both classroom instruction and hands-on training in the clinical setting.

What's the Fastest Someone Can Become a Surgical Technician in Allentown?

In Allentown, the fastest path to becoming a Surgical Technician is typically a certificate or diploma program, which can be completed in as little as 9 months. These accelerated programs provide the necessary training and education to prepare students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is the primary certification for Surgical Technicians.

Surgical Technician Classes in Allentown

Allentown is home to several educational institutions that offer Surgical Technician classes and programs. Here are a few examples:

1. Lehigh Carbon Community College: This community college offers a 24-month Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology. The program includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for the CST exam. Tuition and fees for the program are approximately $12,000 for in-county residents.

2. Northampton Community College: Northampton Community College provides a 12-month Surgical Technology certificate program. The program covers topics such as surgical procedures, medical terminology, and sterilization techniques. Tuition and fees for the program are around $8,500 for in-county residents.

3. Lehigh Valley Health Network: As a major healthcare provider in the region, Lehigh Valley Health Network offers a Surgical Technology program in partnership with Lehigh Carbon Community College. This program allows students to earn their AAS degree in Surgical Technology while gaining valuable clinical experience at Lehigh Valley Health Network facilities.

Exploring a Career in Surgical Technician Outside Allentown

For those inspired to become a Surgical Technician but living in a different state, achieving your ambition is still very much a possibility. You could explore becoming a Surgical Technician in Akron, Fresno, Miami, Portland, Urban Honolulu. And if you're not near any of these, Dreambound is here to assist by offering an easy way to find and compare Surgical Technician classes by entering your zip code. With the right mindset and resources like Dreambound, starting a career in healthcare is possible from any place.

Online and Free Options in Allentown

While Allentown does not currently have any fully online Surgical Technician programs, some schools in the area do offer hybrid or blended learning options, combining online coursework with on-campus clinical training.

As for free options, Allentown does not have any free Surgical Technician programs available. However, students may be able to access financial aid, scholarships, or grants to help offset the cost of their education.

Certification Process

To become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) in Allentown, individuals must pass the CST exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The exam covers topics such as surgical procedures, sterile technique, and patient care. Once certified, Surgical Technicians must maintain their certification through continuing education and renewal every four years.

Job Environment in Allentown

Allentown's thriving healthcare industry provides ample job opportunities for Surgical Technicians. Some of the potential employers in the area include:

• Lehigh Valley Health Network: A large healthcare system with multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities in the Allentown region.
• St. Luke's University Health Network: Another major healthcare provider in the Allentown area, offering a wide range of medical services.
• Coordinated Health: A regional healthcare network with several locations in the Allentown metropolitan area.
• Surgical centers and outpatient clinics: Allentown is home to various specialized surgical facilities that employ Surgical Technicians.

Final Thoughts

Allentown, Pennsylvania, offers a promising future for those interested in becoming a Surgical Technician. With several educational institutions providing training programs, both in-person and with potential online options, aspiring Surgical Technicians have ample opportunities to kickstart their careers. The city's robust healthcare industry also ensures a wide range of job prospects for those who successfully complete their training and certification. Whether you're just starting to explore the field or are ready to take the next step, Allentown is an excellent place to begin your journey as a Surgical Technician.

If you're someone who values exploring multiple career options and wants to find the best match for your interests, feel free to check out these additional articles:

• Respiratory Therapist Training in Allentown