Contents
If you’re thinking about becoming a surgical tech, you’re probably wondering what classes are required. Here’s a look at the typical curriculum for this type of program.
Checkout this video:
General Education
To become a surgical technologist, also called a scrub, you need to complete an accredited surgical technology program. You also need to have a high school diploma or GED. Some programs may require you to complete some college-level coursework before you can enroll in the surgical technology program.
English
Most technical and community colleges, as well as some hospitals, offer certificate or associate degree programs in surgical technology. Although certification is not required for surgical technologists, many employers prefer or require certification. Surgical technologists must complete formal training and pass a national exam to earn the Certified Surgical Technologist credential.
Most surgical technologist programs last about 9 months and include both classroom and clinical instruction in subjects such as medical ethics, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and medical terminology. In the operating room, surgical technologists work under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. They help to prepare operating rooms by setting up sterile fields and ensuring that all necessary equipment is available. They also may help to transport patients to and from the operating room and assist with bringing them into and out of anesthesia.
Math
A surgical tech must have a high school diploma or GED and complete an accredited surgical technologist program, which typically takes about nine months to a year to complete. The program will include coursework in various medical subjects, such as human anatomy and physiology, medical ethics, and medical terminology. A surgical tech will also need to complete a math course as part of their education.
Science
The minimum educational requirement for surgical technologists is a postsecondary certificate, but many candidates have an associate’s degree in this field. Programs typically take about two years to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology and microbiology. Many programs also include clinical experiences.
Health Care Classes
In order to become a surgical tech, you will need to complete a certification or degree program from an accredited institution. The length of the program will vary depending on the route you take, but most programs can be completed in about two years. During your program, you will take classes such as human anatomy, medical Terminology, surgical procedures, and medical ethics.
Medical Terminology
It is important for students to have a strong understanding of medical terminology before they enter into a health care program. A course in medical terminology will introduce students to the accurate use of medical words in order to better understand York and communications between health care professionals.
Anatomy and Physiology
In order to work as a surgical tech, you will need to have a strong understanding of human anatomy and physiology. You will need to be able to identify different organs and tissues, and you should have a basic understanding of how they work. You will also need to be familiar with medical terminology, so that you can understand the instructions that surgeons give to the rest of the surgical team.
Microbiology
One of the core classes you’ll take as a surgical tech student is microbiology, which is the study of microscopic organisms. This class will teach you about the different types of bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that can cause infections. You’ll learn how these organisms grow and spread, and how they can be prevented or treated. You’ll also study how infections affect patients before, during and after surgery.
Surgical Technology Classes
There are a few different types of classes you will need to take if you want to become a surgical tech. You will need to have general education classes like math, English, and science. After you have completed your general education, you will then need to take classes specific to surgical technology. These classes will cover topics like medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.
Introduction to Surgery
The first class that you’ll take as a surgical tech student is an introduction to surgery. In this class, you will learn the basics of surgical procedures, terminology, and equipment. You will also learn about the role of the surgical technologist in the operating room. This class is typically taken as a lecture with a laboratory component.
Surgical Procedures
Classes in surgical technology typically cover a broad range of surgical procedures. Some of the most common classes include those on general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and pediatrics. Other classes might focus on more specific surgical procedures, such as heart surgery, neurosurgery, or transplant surgery. Still other classes might focus on the administrative side of things, such as medical billing and coding.
Surgical Equipment
Classes in surgical technology usually cover the various types of equipment used in operating rooms. Students learn how to handle and sterilize instruments, as well as how to set up operating rooms for specific procedures. Additional topics may include anesthesia, medical terminology and physiology.
Clinical Experience
Surgical tech programs will require students to complete a set number of clinical hours in order to graduate. This is usually between 400 and 600 hours, which can be done in a hospital, clinic, or medical office. Students will be able to work with patients and get hands-on experience in the field. This is a great way to see if this career is right for you.
shadowing a surgical tech
You’ll gain valuable insight into the daily responsibilities of a surgical tech by shadowing one on the job. You’ll be able to see first-hand how they work with surgeons and other members of the surgical team, as well as how they prepare patients for surgery. This experience will give you a better understanding of the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be successful in this career.
working in a hospital
Clinical experience is a key requirement for becoming a surgical technologist. Students must complete an accredited surgical technology program, which typically takes about two years to finish. During their studies, students will rotate through various hospital departments to gain exposure to different types of surgery. They will also be required to complete a certain number of hours in an operating room setting, observed by a licensed surgical technologist.
