Surgeons rely on them in the operating room--surgical technologists, or technicians as they are most often referred to. On prime time television, they are the professionals who hand over the scalpels and other surgical instruments on command. Becoming a surgical technologist can be accomplished in less than a year and can give you a jump-start to a rewarding and respected career in the medical profession.
Surgical Technology Definition
Surgical technology is the career field of an individual trained to work alongside physicians and other medical professionals in a hospital operating room setting. Often called scrubs or operating technicians, surgical technologists work under the direct supervision of a surgeon, registered nurse and other members of the surgical team, including anesthesiologists. Surgical technologists arrive in the operating room prior to other staff members, making sure all equipment is in working condition and prepping the immediate area with surgical instruments, dressings and sponges. It is the surgical technologist who usually transports the patient to the operating room and is often involved in helping nurses prep the patient for the procedure.
Responsibilities During Surgeries
During operations, surgical technologists will hand tools and medical supplies to the surgeon as requested. Keeping an accurate count of all medical instruments and materials used is an important part of the surgical technologist's responsibility in order to make sure no foreign materials are left in the patient's body. Depending on the facility and the level of expertise, some surgical technologists may be required to assist physicians with suctioning procedures. Once the surgery is complete, surgical technologists must restock the room for the next procedure.
Education Requirements
Those interested in training to become a surgical technologist can usually find qualified programs in technical or allied health schools. Those programs generally last about nine months and lead to certification. Some smaller community colleges may offer the program, which culminates in a two-year associate's degree. Following graduation, students must pass a state exam to obtain certification. Re-certification for surgical technologists must be obtained through continuing education every four years.
Pay and Job Outlook
According to a 2009 survey by Payscale.com, a first-year surgical technologist can expect to earn around $13.64 per hour, or $28,371 a year. Those practicing surgical technologists with one or more years of job experience can average about $15.15 an hou,r or $31,512 a year. After five years of experience, most surgical technologists can earn well over $18 an hour. The job outlook for surgical technologists is expected to be good through the year 2012. The majority of these positions will be in hospitals and large medical centers.
Other Opportunities
Surgical technologists looking for advancement opportunities may choose to specialize in specific types of operations. Many surgical technologists are advanced to the position of first assistant, where they are given additional responsibilities such as closing wounds, performing stitches, sponging and cauterizing bleeding blood vessels. For those who may be faint of heart at the sight of blood, there are also opportunities for surgical technologists in insurance, supply services and equipment departments of hospitals.
