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What does it take to be a surgical tech? If you’re interested in this field, you’ll need to have a strong interest in helping others, a good work ethic, and the ability to handle sometimes-stressful situations. You’ll also need to be able to work well under pressure and have excellent attention to detail. If you have all of these qualities, then you might just make a great surgical tech!
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Introduction
If you’re interested in a career in the medical field, you may be wondering what it takes to be a surgical tech. Surgical techs play a vital role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and other medical personnel during surgery.
To become a surgical tech, you’ll need to complete an accredited surgical technology program. Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll then need to pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
In addition to formal training and certification, there are other qualities that will make you successful as a surgical tech. These include strong communication and organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.
If you have these qualities and are interested in helping others, a career as a surgical tech may be the perfect fit for you.
The Job of a Surgical Tech
Surgical techs are a vital part of the surgical team. They help to ensure that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently. Surgical techs must be able to work well under pressure, be detail-oriented, and have good manual dexterity. If you are considering a career as a surgical tech, read on to learn more about what the job entails.
Assisting the Surgeon
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub tech, is an important member of the operating room team. The surgical technologist works closely with the surgeon, anesthesia provider, circulating nurse and other members of the surgical team to ensure asepsis and that the sterile field is maintained throughout the case.
The surgical technologist generally has three main responsibilities:
1. Prepare the operating room and equipment for surgery. This includes making sure that all instruments and supplies are sterilized and ready to use.
2. Prepare the patient for surgery by making sure that he or she is properly positioned on the operating table and that all incision sites are marked.
3. Assist the surgeon during surgery by handing him or her instruments and other supplies as needed.
In order to be successful in this role, it is important for surgical technologists to have excellent hand-eye coordination, mechanical aptitude, attention to detail and stamina. They must also be able to maintain their composure under pressure and keep a cool head in emergency situations.
Maintaining the Operating Room
One of the most important duties of a surgical technologist is to maintain the operating room. This includes making sure that the room and all of its equipment are sterilized and ready for use. The tech may also be responsible for setting up the operating room before surgery, which includesarranging the instruments and setting up any needed medical equipment.
The Education and Training of a Surgical Tech
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrub tech, operating room technician, or operating room technologist, is an allied health professional who works as a member of the surgical team. Surgical technologists generally enter the field after completing a postsecondary educational program in surgical technology. Some surgical technologists may choose to become certified by successfully completing a nationally accredited surgical technology program and passing a certification exam.
Surgical Tech Programs
Prospective surgical techs can choose from several types of training programs, including certificate, diploma, and associate’s degree programs. While certificate and diploma programs may be completed in as little as 9 months, most students choose to earn an Associate’s degree, which generally takes 2 years to complete. Students interested in earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in surgical technology may do so, but these advanced degrees are not required for entry-level positions.
Surgical tech programs typically include coursework in anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, microbiology, and pharmacology. Students also receive instruction and training in surgical techniques and procedures. Many programs include clinical rotations, during which students gain hands-on experience in hospital operating rooms, outpatient surgery centers, and other healthcare settings.
Certification
Prior to certification, candidates must graduate from an accredited surgical technology program and successfully complete a written and practical exam. Certification is valid for four years, after which surgical techs must recertify by completing continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam.
The Skills of a Surgical Tech
Surgical techs are in high demand due to the aging population and the large number of surgeries being performed each year. They play a vital role in the operating room, providing direct assistance to surgeons. Surgical techs must have excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and physical stamina. They must also be able to work well under pressure and have a good understanding of medical terminology.
Physical Skills
URGICAL TECHNIQUE REQUIRES DEXTERITY, FOCUS AND STRENGTH
Although most of the work of a surgical technologist happens behind the scenes, the job requires a significant amount of skill. Surgical techs must have excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to be able to handle small instruments and sutures with precision. At the same time, they need to be able to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects such as patients and equipment, and support patients who are in pain.
Mental Skills
Working in the medical field can be extremely mentally and emotionally challenging. Surgical techs must be able to handle the stress of working in a fast-paced environment while remaining calm and focused. They must be able to make quick decisions and be comfortable with blood and other bodily fluids. They must also have a strong stomach, as they will often be exposed to gruesome sights and smells.
The Personality of a Surgical Tech
If you have ever wondered what kind of person it takes to be a surgical tech, this post is for you. A surgical tech is a medical professional who assists in surgeries. They are an important part of the surgical team and their main responsibility is to make sure that the surgical area is clean and sterile. Surgical techs must have a calm and collected personality and be able to handle stress well.
Compassion
Surgical techs must be compassionate people who are able to empathize with patients who are going through a tough experience. They need to be able to see past the surgery and understand that each patient is an individual with their own fears and concerns. Surgical techs must be able to put themselves in their patients’ shoes and provide them with the support they need before, during, and after surgery.
Detail-Oriented
One of the most important qualities for a surgical tech is the ability to pay close attention to detail. In the operating room, even the smallest mistake can have potentially life-threatening consequences. From double-checking that the correct patient is being prepped for surgery, to making sure that all of the instruments are accounted for and sterilized properly, a surgical tech must be vigilant at all times.
Team Player
Surgical techs must be able to work well as part of a team. They must be able to take direction from the surgeon and other members of the surgical team, and they must be able to work well under pressure. Surgical techs must also be able to communicate effectively with other members of the surgical team, as well as with patients and their families.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a surgical tech requires completing an accredited training program and passing a national certification exam. Once certified, surgical techs must keep their skills sharp by completing continuing education courses on a regular basis. To be successful in this field, one must possess excellent manual dexterity, be able to handle stress well, and work well as part of a team.
