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You may be wondering what degree you need to be a surgical tech. The short answer is that you don’t necessarily need a degree to work in this field, but having one can certainly help you advance your career.
There are a few different routes you can take to become a surgical tech. You can complete a certificate or diploma program, which typically takes around a year to complete. Or, you can pursue an Associate’s degree, which will take two years to complete.
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Surgical techs are in high demand
A surgical technologist, also called a surgical tech or scrub tech, is an important member of the operating room team. Surgical technologists work alongside surgeons, nurses and other medical professionals to prepare patients and operating rooms for surgery. They also assist during surgeries by passing instruments to surgeons and administering medications as directed.
Surgical technologists typically need to complete an accredited surgical technology program before entering the workforce. These programs usually take about two years to complete and award either an associate degree or a certificate. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed an accredited program, but it is not always required.
Surgical technologists must be detail-oriented and able to maintain a high level of focus in fast-paced operating room environments. They must also be able to work well as part of a team and follow instructions carefully. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also important in this role.
The duties of a surgical tech
Surgical techs are an important part of the surgical team. They prepare the operating room for surgery and sterilize equipment. They also help surgeons during surgery.
Surgical techs must be able to follow instructions and work well under pressure. They must be able to pay attention to detail and be able to work quickly and efficiently.
Most surgical techs have an associate’s degree from a community college or technical school. Some surgical tech programs last for two years, but some accelerated programs can be completed in as little as one year.
Some hospitals offer on-the-job training for surgical techs. In these programs, applicants usually have a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a short training program lasting several weeks to several months.
The necessary skills of a surgical tech
In order to become a surgical tech, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete an accredited surgical technology program. Upon completion of your program, you will be able to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Once you have passed the CST exam, you will be a certified surgical technologist and will be able to work in any state in the country.
The different types of surgical tech programs
There are three types of surgical tech programs: hospital-based, community college, and vocational school. Each type of program has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the right one for you.
Hospital-based programs are the most common type of surgical tech program. They’re typically sponsored by a specific hospital or group of hospitals, and they’re usually affiliated with a medical school. Hospital-based programs often offer the most hands-on experience, and they may have better job placement rates after graduation. However, they can also be the most competitive to get into, and they’re usually more expensive than other types of programs.
Community college programs are becoming more popular as an alternative to hospital-based programs. They’re typically less expensive than hospital-based programs, and they may be easier to get into. However, community college programs generally don’t offer as much hands-on experience as hospital-based programs.
Vocational school programs are the least common type of surgical tech program. They tend to be shorter in duration than other types of programs (usually 1 year or less), and they often have lower tuition costs. However, vocational schools generally don’t have the same level of prestige as hospital-based or community college programs, and they may not offer as much hands-on experience.
The best way to become a surgical tech
There are two ways to become a surgical tech: on-the-job training or completing an accredited surgical technology program. Although most surgical techs complete a postsecondary educational program, some may enter the occupation through on-the-job training. On-the-job training generally lasts about a year and is less common than completing an accredited surgical technology program. Most community colleges, technical colleges, and hospitals with surgical technology programs offer accredited programs.
