How to Become a Surgical Tech from a Medical Assistant
Contents
- Introduction: How to Become a Surgical Tech from a Medical Assistant
- What is a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Responsibilities of a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Education and Training Requirements for a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Certification and Licensure Requirements for a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Job Prospects for a Surgical Tech?
- What is the Salary Range for a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Benefits of Being a Surgical Tech?
- What are the Drawbacks of Being a Surgical Tech?
- Conclusion: How to Become a Surgical Tech from a Medical Assistant
How to Become a Surgical Tech from a medical assistant A medical assistant can become a surgical tech by taking a certification class and then passing the certification exam.
Checkout this video:
Introduction: How to Become a Surgical Tech from a Medical Assistant
The surgical technologist, also called a operating room technician or scrub, is an allied health professional who works as part of the surgical team. Surgical techs work under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses and licensed practical nurses to ensure that the operating room is clean and that the instruments and equipment are sterile. They also prepare patients for surgery and assist surgeons during procedures.
Medical assistants who are interested in becoming surgical technologists can do so by completing a Certificate or Associate’s degree program in surgical technology. Most programs take about two years to complete and include coursework in anatomy, physiology, medical ethics and surgical techniques. Students also gain hands-on experience through clinical internships. Once they have completed their training, surgical technologists must pass a national certification exam to become certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
What is a Surgical Tech?
In order to become a surgical tech, you first have to understand what the job entails. A surgical tech is a medical professional who provides support to surgeons during invasive procedures. Surgical techs are responsible for sterilizing equipment, setting up the operating room, and assisting surgeons during surgery.
The job of a surgical tech is both demanding and rewarding If you want to become a surgical tech, you will need to have a strong work ethic and be able to handle high-pressure situations. In addition, you will need to be detail-oriented and have excellent communication skills.
If you are interested in becoming a surgical tech, the first step is to earn your medical assistant certification. Once you have your certification, you will then be able to apply for jobs as a surgical tech.
What are the Responsibilities of a Surgical Tech?
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, surgical technician or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as part of the team delivering surgical care. Surgical technologists work under the supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. The main responsibility of a surgical technologist is to ensure that the operating room is ready for surgery and that all necessary instruments and equipment are available. Technologists also may be responsible for transporting patients to and from the operating room, as well as sterile processing of instruments.
What are the Education and Training Requirements for a Surgical Tech?
There are many different ways to become a surgical tech, but most people enter the field after completing a certificate or associate’s degree program in surgical technology. Some programs may last as little as a few months, while others may take up to two years to complete. Many surg tech programs are offered at community colleges and technical schools, and some hospitals offer on-the-job training programs.
After completing a surg tech program, you will need to pass the national certifying exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Once you have passed the exam, you will be a certified surgical technologist (CST). To maintain your certification, you will need to complete continuing education credits every four years.
What are the Certification and Licensure Requirements for a Surgical Tech?
There are a few things you need to do in order to become a surgical tech. We have compiled everything you need to know, from certification to licensure requirements, into this guide.
The first step is to get certified. You can do this by passing the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible to take the CST exam, you must have completed an accredited surgical technology program OR have completed at least one year of full-time work experience as a surgical technologist within the past five years. If you choose to go the route of completing an accredited surgical technology program, you will also need to complete a clinical rotation in order to graduate.
Once you have passed the CST exam, you will need to apply for state licensure. Licensure requirements vary from state to state, but most states require surgical techs to be licensed by the state Board of Medical Examiners. In order to be licensed, you will need to submit proof of passing the CST exam as well as an application fee. Once you are licensed, you will need to renew your license every two years and complete continuing education requirements in order to keep your license active.
So there you have it! These are the steps you need to take in order to become a certified surgical technologist. Just remember: get certified, apply for licensure, and renew your license every two years. Follow these steps and you’ll be on your way to a successful career in surgical technology!
What are the Job Prospects for a Surgical Tech?
The job outlook for surgical techs is very good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of surgical techs will grow much faster than the average for all occupations between 2016 and 2026. In fact, they estimate that there will be nearly 22,000 new jobs created during this time period. If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech, this is great news!
What is the Salary Range for a Surgical Tech?
The surgical tech salary range can vary depending on a number of factors, including experience, location, and employer. In general, surgical techs can expect to earn a median annual salary of $47,000. However, those at the top of their field can earn significantly more, with some surgical techs earning annual salaries of over $60,000.
What are the Benefits of Being a Surgical Tech?
There are many benefits to becoming a surgical tech, including the following:
1. Surgical techs are in high demand.
2. Surgical techs earn a good salary.
3. Surgical techs have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings.
4. Surgical techs can specialize in certain areas of surgery.
5. Surgical techs have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping patients receive the best possible care.
What are the Drawbacks of Being a Surgical Tech?
There are some drawbacks of being a surgical tech that you should be aware of before making the switch from medical assistant For one, surgical techs work long hours and are often on their feet for most of the day. They also deal with blood and other bodily fluids on a regular basis, which can be difficult for some people to stomach. In addition, surgical techs may have to work weekends and holidays as well as irregular hours.
Conclusion: How to Become a Surgical Tech from a Medical Assistant
Becoming a surgical tech from a medical assistant is a great career move. Surgical techs are in high demand and the job outlook is excellent. The pay is good and the work is interesting and challenging. As a medical assistant you already have the basic knowledge and skills needed to be a surgical tech. With some additional training, you can make the transition to this exciting and rewarding career.