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How long does it take to become a surgical tech? The answer may surprise you. Follow these steps to become a surgical tech in no time.
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Introduction
Surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians or operating room assistants, are an important part of the surgical team. They prepare operating rooms for surgery, sterilize equipment, and help surgeons during operations.
Becoming a surgical technologist usually takes about 2 years if you attend a full-time training program. Surgical technologists need formal training in order to work in this career. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer programs in surgical technology. Some programs lead to a certificate, while others result in an associate’s degree.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Surgical Tech?
Surgical techs are in high demand. They play an important role in the surgical team, supporting the surgeons and other members of the team. If you’re thinking about becoming a surgical tech, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to complete the training and become certified. Let’s take a look.
Surgical Tech Programs
There are a couple different ways to become a surgical technologist. The most common way is to complete an accredited surgical technologist program, which generally takes about nine months to a year to complete. There are also two-year associate’s degree programs available as well as four-year bachelor’s degree programs, although these are less common. In addition to completing an accredited program, you will also need to pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
On-the-Job Training
surgical techs typically need to complete a surgical technology program at a community college, technical school or university. These programs typically last about 9 to 24 months and include both classroom and clinical instruction. Students taking part in on-the-job training can expect to complete their studies in about 2 years.
Certification and Licensure
In order to work as a surgical tech, you will need to be certified and licensed. The process of becoming certified and licensed usually takes between 1-2 years.
To become certified, you will need to complete an accredited surgical technology program. These programs typically take between 9 months to 1 year to complete. Once you have completed an accredited program, you will then need to take and pass the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) certification exam.
After you have passed the NBSTSA exam, you will then need to obtain a state license. The process for obtaining a state license varies by state, but generally involves taking and passing a state-specific examination.
Once you have completed the certification and licensure process, you will be able to work as a surgical tech in the united states
Conclusion
In conclusion, it takes about two years to become a surgical tech. You can complete a certificate or diploma program in as little as nine months, but you will need to complete an accredited surgical tech program to be eligible for certification.
