If you’re already a certified surgical technologist and were trained by completing a short-term certificate or diploma program, you may be able to take advanced courses online. A surgical technologist, also called an operating room technician or a surgical tech, plays a very important role in the operating room. What’s a Typical Work Day Like for a Surgical Technologist? Another surgical tech certification is called the Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C), offered through the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). It’s imperative that you listen closely to other members of the surgical team and that you’re able to clearly communicate any issues that may arise during surgery to the physician or other team members. Focusing on a specific area of surgery is a viable option that allows you to offer highly sought-after expertise. Employers require surgical technicians to receive training resulting in a certificate, diploma or an associate degree in surgical technology. Some pros include the fact that this can be a lucrative career that doesn’t require a four-year degree. A practice exam is available to help you know what you should focus on when you study. When you work as a surgical technologist, you may be expected to work weekends, holidays, nights and on call. The certification requires continuing education and must be renewed every 5 years. Earning a surgical tech certification is a 2-step process: Successfully complete an accredited surgical technician program Take and pass the Certified Surgical Technologist exam Some states are now requiring surgical technologists to earn their certification before becoming eligible for employment. Graduates of this accredited program are eligible to test for certified surgical technologist credentials. You’ll need the physical stamina and endurance to stand on your feet for as long as necessary during a surgical procedure and to be able to work well under pressure. It’s important to look for a program that’s accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) or the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) to be eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. During the procedure, your duties may include passing equipment to surgeons and other members of the surgical team, holding tools or organs in place or setting up robotic equipment. To become a CST, you must pass the certification exam. Investing in a decent surgical tech qualification and certification opens many doors when it comes to career advancement. Attending an accredited school is assurance that the program you’ve chosen meets the highest standards for the profession. For most certifications, surgical technicians become certified by following three basic steps: Training program requirements vary between certifications, and each have their own set of eligibility requirements. College of Southern Idaho. National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) – Provides the Certified Surgical Technologist/Certified First Assistant credential National Center for Competency Training (NCCT) – Provides the Tech in Surgery Certification Each certifying agency has different requirements for taking the exam. Is On-the-Job Training an Option? In approximately 18 to 24 months, you can earn an associate’s degree in surgical technology, which may lead to better-paying job opportunities. Surgical Tech Certification. Of these, 150 are scored, with 25 unscored questions distributed randomly through the test. This means that approximately half of the people in this profession made more than this amount and half made less. The end goal of your training is to … Many programs do offer flexible options for obtaining the needed training, including evening and weekend classes. You’ll bring patients to the recovery room and make sure the operating room is properly restocked. Surgical technologist demonstrating proper precautionary raised idle hand position A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrub tech, surgical technician, or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as a part of the team delivering surgical care. From sterilizing equipment to preparing patients for surgery, the duties of a surgical tech are incredibly hands-on. Admission into surgical tech training requires a high school diploma or the equivalent. Surgical technician education programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs. Online education is becoming more and more popular since it often allows students to take classes at convenient times, possibly while still working at another job. Certified surgical techs also have a higher earning potential in the long run, and can demand a higher salary. 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