How to Become a Surgery Tech in 10 Easy Steps

A surgery tech plays an important role in the medical field. They are responsible for prepping patients for surgery and assisting during the surgery itself. If you’re interested in becoming a surgery tech, follow these 10 easy steps!

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Introduction

Medical technology is one of the fastest growing career fields in the united states If you’re interested in becoming a surgery tech, also known as a surgical technologist, there are a few things you need to know. Here are 10 easy steps to get you started on your new career path:

1. Research the field of medical technology to make sure it’s the right fit for you. A career in medical technology can be both challenging and rewarding, but it’s not for everyone. Be sure to do your research before making any decisions.

2. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. While you don’t need to have a degree to become a surgery tech, most employers will require at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

3. Complete an accredited surgical technology program. There are many accredited surgical technology programs available at community colleges, technical schools, and universities across the country. Completing an accredited program is the best way to ensure that you meet all of the necessary educational requirements for becoming a surgery tech.

4. Pass the Certified Surgical Technician (CST) exam. The CST exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam is required for certification and will give you an edge when applying for jobs.

5. Apply for state licensure (if required). While not all states require surgery techs to be licensed, some do have licensure requirements in place. Be sure to check with your state’s licensing board to see if licensure is required in your state.

6. Apply for national certification (if desired). National certification is not required for Become but may make you more attractive to potential employers and can give you a pay increase in some cases. The NBSTSA offers two different certification exams for surgery techs: the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam and the Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C) exam.

7 . Start your job search! Once you have met all of the educational and/or certification requirements, you can begin searching for jobs as a surgery tech There are many great opportunities available across the country in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, physician offices, and more!

Step One: Research the Profession

The first step to becoming a surgery tech is to research the profession. Visit the websites of professional organizations such as the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) and the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). These organizations offer information on education and certification requirements, as well as job outlook and salary data. You can also speak with surgery techs in your area to learn more about their day-to-day responsibilities.

Step Two: Complete an accredited program

In order to become a surgery tech, you will need to complete an accredited program. These programs typically last between 9 and 24 months, and they will prepare you for the various aspects of the job. You can find accredited programs at community colleges, technical schools, and even some hospitals.

Once you have completed an accredited program, you will be eligible to take the national certification exam. This exam is not required in all states, but it is recommended.

Step Three: Pass the certification exam

After you’ve completed a surgery tech program, the next step is to take a nationally recognized certification exam. You can choose from the Certification Examination for the Surgical Technologist (CEST) or the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Once you pass the exam, you’ll be a certified surgical technologist (CST). Some states require surgical technologists to be licensed, but this isn’t always the case.

Step Four: Apply for a state license

After you have graduated from an accredited surgical technologist program and passed the NBSTSA exam, you will need to apply for a state license. Each state has their own process and requirements for licensure, so be sure to check with your state board of surgical technologists for specific instructions. Once you have met all the requirements and have been licensed in your state, you will be able to officially start your career as a surgery tech!

Step Five: Find a job

Now that you have your certification, it’s time to start looking for a job. Start by searching the internet for “entry level surgical technologist jobs.” You can also look on websites like Indeed.com or Monster.com. Often, hospitals and surgery centers will post job openings on their own websites.

Another option is to contact a staffing agency that specializes in placing surgical technologists. These agencies can be a great resource, especially if you are looking for a travel assignment or temp-to-perm position.

Once you have found a few job openings that look promising, it’s time to start applying! Be sure to read the job descriptions carefully and only apply for positions that you are qualified for. Most employers will require at least a year of experience, so if you don’t have any experience, you may want to consider applying for an entry-level position or an internship.

When you are ready to apply, be sure to include your resume and cover letter. Your resume should list your education, training, and any relevant work experience. In your cover letter, be sure to mention why you are interested in the position and what makes you a good fit for the job.

After you have submitted your application, the next step is to prepare for your interview!

Step Six: Maintain certification

Once you become a certified surgery tech, it is important to maintain your certification. Depending on the certifying agency, this might mean taking classes or exams every few years to stay up-to-date on the latest surgical procedures and techniques. Alternatively, some agencies require certification holders to earn a certain number of continuing education credits each year. You can typically earn these credits by attending seminars, taking courses or participating in other educational activities related to surgery technology.

Step Seven: Advance your career

There are many ways to advance your career as a surgery tech. You can specialize in a certain area of surgery, such as orthopedics or cardiovascular surgery. You can also get certified as a surgical technologist (CST) or a Certified First Assistant (CFSA). These credentials will give you an edge when applying for jobs and can lead to higher pay. You can also become a supervisor or manager of surgical technicians, or open your own surgical technology school.

Step Eight: Consider becoming a registered nurse

There are many paths you can take to become a surgery tech, but one of the most direct (and perhaps most rewarding) routes is to become a registered nurse. In order to do this, you will need to complete an accredited nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. Once you become a registered nurse, you will be eligible to work in a variety of settings, including surgical settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, becoming a surgery tech is a great way to get involved in the medical field without having to go to medical school. Although it requires completing an accredited surgical technologist program and passing the certification exam, it is a relatively quick and easy process. With the help of this guide, you should be able to become a surgery tech in no time!