Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist is a member of the healthcare team that
provides surgical care and treatment to patients. All surgical
technologists work under supervisors who ensure that safety
measures are properly met throughout the pre-surgery, surgery, and
post-surgery processes. The major responsibilities of a surgical
technologists include working under the supervision of the surgeon
to ensure a safe work environment, proper operation of equipment,
and to ensure that the patient’s safety and health is always
monitored. The surgical technologist must have a wide knowledge of
various subjects including human anatomy, biology, chemistry,
surgical procedures and tools, and implementation technologies.
Those who are considering becoming trained to be a surgical
technologist will be pleased to know that employment opportunities
are expected to grow faster than average in the coming years. This
is due to a larger volume of surgeries and surgical procedures
being performed. The relationship is also based on the fact that
the ’baby-boomer’ generation is aging, which means more surgeries
will be needed. Most surgical technologists work in hospitals while
a few work in physicians’ offices performing outpatient
surgeries.
There are several different specialties within the career of
surgical technologists. A Scrub Surgical Technologist is in charge
of handling instruments, supplies, and equipment during surgery.
The Scrub technologists must anticipate what the surgeon will
require during operation and ensure that all equipment is
sterilized. The Circulating Surgical Technologists assists in
obtaining additional supplies and instruments during the operation.
He or she is also in charge of monitoring the conditions within the
operating room and check’s the patient’s charts and vitals to
ensure that he or she is protected from unwanted injuries. The
Second Assisting Technologist is the surgeon’s assistant and
carries out various technical tasks during the operation.
The surgical technologist is required to receive technical
training through certified programs. Upon completion of an
accredited program, the student will receive a certificate from the
CAAHEP declaring the individual fit to work as a surgical
technologist.
The average surgical technologist earns between $30,000 and
$45,000 annually. The lowest 10% of surgical technologists earn a
salary just over $25,000, while the highest 10% can expect to earn
just over $50,000. Most employers offer benefits such as health,
dental, life, retirement, and vacation time.