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What is a Surgical Technology Degree?
A surgical technology degree prepares students to work alongside surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. It focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to assist during surgical procedures, including maintaining sterile environments, handling instruments, and ensuring that surgeries run smoothly and safely.
Students in this program learn how to prepare operating rooms before surgery, sterilize equipment, and help position patients. They also study anatomy, medical terminology, and surgical procedures so they can anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond quickly and efficiently during operations.
Program Options
There are several program options available for a surgical technology degree, each varying in length and depth of training:
- Certificate in Surgical Technology: This short-term program typically takes around one year to complete. It covers the fundamentals of surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care, preparing students for entry-level positions.
- Associate Degree in Surgical Technology: This two-year program includes both general education and specialized surgical coursework. It provides a more in-depth education and may offer better job prospects and advancement opportunities compared to a certificate.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Surgical Technology or Health Sciences: While less common, some students choose a four-year degree in a related field to expand their knowledge and open doors to leadership, education, or healthcare management roles.
To work as a surgical technologist, most employers require certification to demonstrate professional competence. Here are the main certifications and licensing considerations:
- Certified Surgical Technologist (CST): This is the most widely recognized credential, offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To qualify, candidates must complete an accredited surgical technology program and pass a certification exam.
- Tech in Surgery–Certified (TS-C): Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT), this certification is another pathway and requires formal education, military training, or work experience, plus passing an exam.
- State Licensure: Some states may require surgical technologists to register or be licensed in addition to holding a national certification. Requirements vary, so it’s important to check with local health boards or regulatory agencies.
Skills You’ll Learn
Students pursuing a surgical technology degree develop a range of essential skills needed to assist in the operating room and ensure surgeries run smoothly. Some of the key skills learned include:
- Sterilization and Infection Control: Students learn how to properly sterilize surgical instruments, maintain a sterile environment, and prevent infections, which is critical for patient safety.
- Surgical Instrument Handling: Surgical technologists must be familiar with a wide variety of surgical instruments. Students practice identifying, organizing, and passing instruments to surgeons during procedures quickly and accurately.
- Patient Preparation: Surgical technology programs teach students how to prepare patients for surgery, including positioning them correctly and ensuring they are properly prepped for the procedure.
- Operating Room Setup: Students gain skills in setting up the operating room, ensuring that all necessary equipment, tools, and supplies are available and ready for use during surgeries.
- Teamwork and Communication: Surgical technologists work as part of a healthcare team. Programs emphasize the importance of effective communication with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure seamless coordination during operations.
- Emergency Response: During surgeries, unexpected situations can arise. Students learn how to respond to surgical emergencies, assist in critical moments, and provide support as needed to the medical team.
What Can You Do with a Surgical Technology Degree?
With a surgical technology degree, graduates are qualified for various roles in the healthcare field, primarily focused on assisting in surgeries and supporting medical teams. Here are some career paths available:
- Surgical Technologist: The primary role for graduates, surgical technologists assist in operating rooms by preparing surgical instruments, maintaining a sterile environment, and supporting surgeons during procedures. They play a key role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely.
- Surgical Assistant: With additional training or certification, surgical technologists can become surgical assistants. This advanced role involves directly aiding surgeons during complex procedures, such as controlling bleeding, suturing wounds, and managing surgical instruments.
- Sterile Processing Technician: Some graduates choose to specialize in sterilizing and managing surgical tools and equipment. Sterile processing technicians are essential for preventing infection and ensuring that all materials used in surgery meet strict cleanliness standards.
- Operating Room Assistant: This support role includes tasks like transporting patients, positioning them for surgery, and helping with equipment setup. It’s ideal for those who want to be part of the surgical team in a non-clinical capacity.
