Surgical Tech Program: An In-Depth Overview

A career in the healthcare field offers diverse and rewarding opportunities, and one particularly vital role is that of a Surgical Technologist, or Surgical Tech. Surgical technologists are essential members of a medical team, working closely with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that surgical procedures are safe, efficient, and effective. For those interested in a fast-paced, hands-on healthcare profession, enrolling in a surgical tech program can be the first step toward a fulfilling career in the operating room.

What is a Surgical Technologist?

A surgical technologist is a trained professional responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing and organizing instruments, and assisting the surgical team before, during, and after surgery. Their role is critical to ensuring that surgeries go smoothly and that the patients’ safety is prioritized.

During an operation, surgical techs assist in various tasks, such as:

Preparing and Sterilizing Equipment: Surgical techs make sure that all instruments, tools, and supplies used during the procedure are properly sterilized and prepared for use.
Assisting Surgeons: During the operation, they provide instruments and materials needed by the surgeon. They may also assist with holding retractors, suctioning fluids, and performing other tasks as directed by the surgeon.
Post-Surgery Care: After the procedure, surgical techs help clean and restock the operating room, and ensure all surgical equipment is properly cleaned and ready for the next surgery.

Why Consider a Surgical Tech Program?

A surgical tech program is specifically designed to provide students with the essential skills and knowledge required for success in this high-demand field. These programs typically focus on anatomy, medical terminology, patient care, infection control, and surgical procedures. Many students choose this career because of the following reasons:

High Job Demand: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for surgical technologists is expected to grow by 9% between 2020 and 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This is due to the aging population and the increasing number of surgeries performed.
Fulfilling Career: Surgical technologists play a crucial role in patient care. Being able to help during life-saving surgeries can be incredibly rewarding for those who enjoy being part of a healthcare team.
Competitive Salary: While the salary of a surgical technologist can vary by location, experience, and type of surgery performed, the median annual wage for surgical techs was approximately $50,000 as of 2020, according to the BLS.
Short Training Duration: Compared to other healthcare professions, becoming a surgical technologist generally requires less time in school. Surgical tech programs usually take about 9-24 months to complete, with many offering certification upon completion.

What is Included in a Surgical Tech Program?

Surgical tech programs are offered at various educational institutions, including technical schools, community colleges, and universities. These programs are typically available as certificate, diploma, or associate degree programs. Regardless of the level of education, most surgical tech programs cover a range of important topics:

1. Basic Medical Knowledge

Students in a surgical tech program are introduced to the basics of human anatomy, medical terminology, and physiology. Understanding the body and its systems is crucial for anticipating the needs of the surgical team during a procedure.

Anatomy and Physiology: Knowledge of body systems (such as the respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems) is essential to understanding surgical procedures.
Medical Terminology: Students must familiarize themselves with the language used in surgery, including terms related to instruments, procedures, and conditions.

2. Surgical Procedures and Techniques

A significant portion of the curriculum focuses on the various types of surgeries, tools, and procedures. Surgical techs need to know what to expect in different types of surgeries and how to assist the surgical team.

Surgical Instruments: Learning about the different types of instruments and their functions is one of the most critical areas of a surgical tech program. Surgical techs must be able to quickly identify instruments and hand them to the surgeon at the appropriate time.
Types of Surgery: Surgical tech programs cover a variety of surgeries, such as orthopedic, cardiovascular, and neuro surgery. Each of these requires different tools and techniques, and understanding these differences is essential.

3. Infection Control and Sterilization

Infection control is a top priority in the operating room, and surgical techs play an integral role in maintaining a sterile environment. This includes knowledge of sterilization processes, surgical draping, and maintaining a sterile field.

Sterilization: Students learn how to sterilize surgical instruments and ensure that the operating room remains free from harmful pathogens.
Infection Control: Surgical techs must follow strict protocols to prevent infections, including hand hygiene, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintaining aseptic techniques.

4. Patient Care and Safety

Surgical techs must prioritize patient safety at all stages of the procedure, from the moment the patient is wheeled into the operating room to the post-operative phase.

Preoperative Care: Surgical techs help prepare the patient by setting up the operating room, positioning the patient on the surgical table, and assisting with draping.
Intraoperative Care: During the surgery, surgical techs maintain the sterile field, pass instruments to the surgeon, and assist with retracting tissues or handling specimens.
Postoperative Care: After the surgery, techs assist in cleaning the room and ensuring that the patient is properly cared for as they recover from anesthesia.

5. Professionalism and Ethics

Surgical tech programs also teach the importance of professionalism in healthcare settings. Students learn how to work as part of a team, communicate effectively, and deal with the ethical challenges they may face in a hospital or surgical environment.

Teamwork: Since surgical techs work with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists, learning to collaborate effectively is a key part of the training.
Ethical Considerations: Surgical techs must adhere to strict ethical standards, ensuring that patient confidentiality is respected and that they act in the best interest of their patients at all times.

Certification and Licensing for Surgical Technologists

While certification is not mandatory in all states, many employers prefer to hire surgical techs who are certified. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can enhance a surgical technologist’s job prospects. Certification involves passing an exam that tests knowledge of surgical procedures, patient safety, and instrument handling.

In addition to certification, some states may require surgical technologists to obtain a state license or meet other requirements before they can practice. It’s essential to check with local regulatory bodies for specific requirements in your state or region.

Career Opportunities and Advancement

After completing a surgical tech program, graduates can pursue employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including:

Hospitals: The majority of surgical technologists work in hospitals, assisting with a wide range of surgeries.
Outpatient Surgical Centers: Surgical techs may also work in outpatient or ambulatory surgical centers, where minor surgeries and procedures are performed on a less extensive basis.
Specialized Fields: Some surgical techs choose to specialize in certain types of surgery, such as neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, or cardiovascular surgery. This specialization may require additional training but can lead to higher salaries and more career opportunities.

With experience, surgical technologists may have the opportunity to advance into supervisory roles, take on more specialized duties, or pursue additional certifications to become a surgical first assistant, or even transition to other healthcare professions.

Conclusion

The surgical tech program is a great option for those interested in working in healthcare and making a significant impact in the operating room. The training prepares students with essential skills and knowledge to assist surgeons and medical teams, ensuring the safety and success of surgical procedures. With strong job demand, competitive salaries, and the potential for career growth, pursuing a career as a surgical technologist can be a fulfilling and rewarding path for those interested in healthcare and patient care.