The person responsible for sterilizing equipment, operating machinery, or assisting a surgeon during surgery is a surgical technologist.You will need to complete an accredited program to become a surgical technologist.Some jobs might require certification as well.You may have to take some time to study for your new career, but it will be an exciting and fast paced job with plenty of opportunities.
Step 1: You can get a high school degree.
Before you can start your surgical technology program, you need a high school diploma or GED.You don't need a bachelor's degree first in medical fields.A good foundation for your studies can be found in biology, chemistry, and health classes.
Step 2: You should complete an accredited program in surgical technology.
An associate's degree may be granted by accredited programs.Vocational schools and community colleges offer surgical technology programs.A certificate takes a few months while an associate's degree lasts two years.You may be able to get more jobs if you have an associate's degree.The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs has a database of accredited schools.The hands-on experience will be offered by any accredited surgical technology program.Online programs may not be accredited because they won't be able to provide this training.
Step 3: You can join a military program.
If you join the military, you can get on-the-job training.The military pays for the training, but you have to sign up for service for a certain number of years.You can join the military by contacting your local recruiting center.If you are eligible, you will be put in touch with the Medical Education and Training Campus, where your training will begin.An apprenticeship in surgical services is offered by the US Air Force.This requires over 600 hours of training.You will be trained as an operating room specialist by the US Army.The program requires a lot of training.There is a program in surgical technology in the US Navy.
Step 4: You can earn certifications in BLS and CPR.
You need to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation or basic life support in addition to your degree.As part of your education, these programs may be offered.It is possible to become certified at local schools, non-profits, community centers, and gyms.The certification usually lasts two years.It will need to be renewed after that point.BLS training will teach you how to respond to medical emergencies.BLS training can include cardiopulmonary resuscitation.Two years is how long certification lasts.
Step 5: Do you want to apply for one certification or the other?
You can apply for two different certifications.Each qualifies you for a surgical tech job.Both need an exam and a fee.The certified surgical technologist certification is more well known than the certified tech in surgery.The exam costs between $190 and $290 for members of the Association of Surgical Technologists.For students and recent graduates, the certified tech in surgery from the National Center for Competency Testing costs either $195 or $155.You can join the Association of Surgical Technologists by filling out a form and paying a fee.It is not necessary to pass either exam to get a discount.
Step 6: You have to gather your documents.
Proof of your training is required before you can take the exam.This includes your transcripts if you attended an accredited school.If you were in the military, you may need to fill out a form with your supervisor.
Step 7: You can apply by mail.
You can either submit your application online or mail it in.You will be given a test number, a testing center, and a date for the exam once the application is accepted.If you apply online, use the portals on the website.Put your documents in the computer and download them as PDF.You can pay with a card.Print out a copy of the application from their website if you apply by mail.You should make copies of your documents.Attach them to your application with a paper clip.Attach a check to your exam.
Step 8: The exam needs to be taken.
Four hours is how long the exams are.The programs ask different types of questions.You will need a pencil and an ID to take the exam.You will have to answer 105 questions about operative care for the exam.Testing equipment and talking to patients are some of the duties that will be covered by twenty questions.There are 50 basic science questions.The exam contains 135 questions about surgical care, including preparing a catheter, assisting with sutures, and operating machinery.Additional duties include how to inventory supplies or label samples.
Step 9: Prepare a resume.
All of your training, certifications, and experience should be listed on your resume.Mention any other experience you have in medicine.You should include your BLS certification as well.You might want to emphasize your attention to detail and stress management skills.You might write that you excel when communicating with patients or you are an effective multitasking person.
Step 10: You can search for job boards in your area.
You can find surgical tech jobs on local job boards such as Monster or Indeed.You can apply for the job through these websites.
Step 11: Inquire at local hospitals.
The majority of surgical technologists work in hospitals.If you want to find out if there are any jobs open for surgical technologists in your area, try to identify all of the local hospitals.It is possible to find jobs at local medical practices and outpatient care centers.
Step 12: The interview should be a success.
Before hiring, most surgical technologist positions will ask for an interview.This interview will test your skills.You may be asked to describe a procedure.Explaining the procedure in as much detail as possible is what you should do.In emergencies, the interviewer may want to know how you will act.Explain the procedure for handling an emergency based on your training.The interviewer may be interested in personal details, such as why you want to become a surgical tech or how you handle stress.To illustrate your point, use specific stories and anecdotes.You could explain how surgery made you appreciate the people who worked to heal you.
Step 13: Your certification should be updated once a year.
You will need to maintain your certification once you have a job as a surgical technologist.You have to pay an annual membership fee and take up to 14 hours of continuing education each year.Re-certification can cost up to $104 for more than one.