Scalpel! Surgical Technology Careers
by Joe PringleJoe.pringle@medicalhealthcarecareerschools.com
Medical Healthcare Career Schools Columnist
Surgical technologists are an essential part of operating rooms all over the U.S. They are a member of the operating room team, which includes surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. Surgical technologists perform various tasks before, during, and after operations. The work you do as a surgical technologist is crucial to the surgery itself.
Pre-op, Operation, and Post-op
Surgical technologists are involved at all stages of surgical operations. Before the operation they prepare the operating room, making sure all the proper equipment is sterile and ready to go. They also prepare the patient for surgery by cleaning, shaving, and transporting them to the operating room.But the surgical technologists' job is not done yet. During the operation they must monitor vital signs, pass surgeons instruments, and do other general tasks to help the surgery along. Post-operation, surgical technologists clean the operating room and help move the patient to their recovery room.
Living, Learning, Becoming a Surgical Technologist
Becoming a surgical technologist requires training. You can become one with as little as nine months of training in a certificate or diploma program, or you can train for as long as 24 months and obtain an associate's degree. As a surgical technologist, you can advance by specializing in one of the various types of surgery.You won't have trouble finding work as a surgical technologist once you have completed your training - there is already a large demand for surgical technologists, and the job outlook for the future is favorable.
If you've always wanted to be involved in surgery, but spending 7-10 years in school to become an MD isn't for you, a surgical technologist may be just the career for you.
Source:
US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook HandbookAbout the Author:
Joe Pringle is a freelance writer living in Reno, NV.Posted on: November 17, 2005
