How to Become a Surgery Tech
Surgery technicians---also referred to as surgical, operating-room technicians or scrubs---work under the supervision of doctors and nurses. Technicians assist by preparing and transporting patients to surgery, assisting surgeons and medical staff during surgical procedures, and setting up the operating room after surgeries. Additional responsibilities may include preparing surgical equipment, donning surgical gowns and gloves, passing surgical instruments and keeping track of surgical equipment and instruments. To become a surgical technician, formal education is required.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Education and Certification
-
1
Obtain a high school diploma or GED. During high school, take biology, health and math courses. If available, take college-prep courses in biology and math.
-
2
Investigate different surgical technology programs in your area. Consider programs that are nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. Vocational and college programs offer a certificate, diploma or associate's degree. Classes may include biology, anatomy, physiology, surgical procedures and medical terminology. Be prepared to take prerequisites for certain classes.
-
-
3
Do clinical work toward the end of your program. Get as much time as possible in clinical rotations so you'll be better prepared for working in the field.
-
4
Consider what specialties you may want to work in and try to get additional training for them---either through education or possible on-the-job training.
-
5
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, most employers prefer to hire surgical technologists with national certification. To maximize your career opportunities, take the national certification exam. Two organizations offer certification: the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting and the National Center for Competency Testing.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
To apply to a surgical program or work as a surgical technologist, you may need to have a current immunization record.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit iStockphoto.com/Jeffrey Smith
