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Get the inside scoop on what it’s really like to be a travel surgical tech. Learn how to become a travel surgical tech and what the job entails.
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Introduction
Working as a surgical technologist can be a very rewarding career. You will have the opportunity to work closely with surgeons and other medical professionals to help save lives. Many surgical technologists start their careers working in hospitals, but there is an growing demand for surgical techs who are willing to travel to different parts of the country.
If you are interested in becoming a travel surgical tech, there are a few things you need to know. First, you will need to complete an accredited surgical technology program. Once you have completed your training, you will need to obtain certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing (NBSTSA). Finally, you will need to find a job with a medical staffing agency that specializes in placement for travel surgical technologists.
What is a Surgical Tech?
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrub tech, surgical technician, or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as a member of the surgical team. Surgical technologists work under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. The primary responsibility of surgical technologists is to ensure that the operating room is ready for surgery and that all instruments and supplies are sterile.
Surgical technologists may also be responsible for transporting patients to and from the operating room, monitoring vital signs during surgery, and caring for postoperative patients. In some cases, surgical technologists may also assist with minor procedures such as biopsies.
What are the responsibilities of a Surgical Tech?
A Surgical Tech, also called a scrub tech or operating room (OR) tech, is an allied health professional who works alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel during medical procedures. surgical techs play a vital role in the operating room by Sterilizing and preparing the operating room and surgical instruments, as well as ensuring that the patient is properly prepared for surgery.
The main responsibilities of a Surgical Tech include:
-Preparing the operating room for surgery by sterilizing equipment and setting up surgical instruments
-Preparing the patient for surgery by washing and disinfecting the incision site
-Assisting the surgeon during the procedure
-Counting surgical sponges and instruments to ensure that none are left inside the patient
-Applying dressings to the incision site
Surgical Techs must be able to work quickly and efficiently under pressure, as well as maintain a high level of focus throughout long surgeries. They must also have excellent manual dexterity and excellent teamwork skills.
What are the qualifications to become a Surgical Tech?
There are a few qualifications to become a Surgical Tech. Firstly, you must have graduated from an accredited surgical technology program. Secondly, you must have passed the national certification exam administered by either the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST). Lastly, you will need to obtain a state license, if your state requires one.
What are the steps to become a Surgical Tech?
While there are no specific educational requirements to become a surgical technologist, most employers prefer applicants who have completed an accredited surgical technology program. These programs typically last about nine months and lead to a certificate or diploma. Some community colleges and technical schools offer two-year associate degree programs in surgical technology.
Most surgical technologist programs include courses in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, microbiology and chemistry. Students also receive supervised clinical training in operating rooms and other medical settings. Upon completing a surgical technologist program, graduates must pass a national certification exam to become certified surgical technologists (CSTs).
surgical technologists typically need to complete continuing education credits every four years to maintain their certification. Some states regulate surgical technologists and require them to be licensed. Specific requirements vary by state but generally include passing an exam.
What are the benefits of becoming a Surgical Tech?
There are many benefits to becoming a surgical tech. One of the most obvious is that you’ll be able to work in a variety of settings, both in the U.S. and abroad. With your surgical tech diploma in hand, you’ll be able to apply for jobs in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and even get positioned in clinics or doctor’s offices.
In addition to being able to work in a number of different settings, becoming a surgical tech also offers a good salary and job security. The median salary for surgical techs was $47,300 per year in 2016, and the demand for these professionals is only expected to grow in the coming years.
What are the challenges of being a Surgical Tech?
Surgical techs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics and doctor’s offices. They may also be employed by companies that provide medical services to patients in their homes.
Most surgical techs work full time. Some work evenings, weekends and holidays, because surgeries are sometimes scheduled for these times.
Surgical techs may be on their feet for long periods of time and may be exposed to contagious diseases. They may also be exposed to radiation from x-rays and other diagnostic equipment.
