Certification and Beyond: What It Takes to Succeed as a Surgical Technician

The healthcare field is one of the most dynamic and rewarding industries to work in, and the role of a surgical technician (also known as a surgical technologist) is essential within this realm. Surgical technicians, often referred to as “scrub techs,” play a vital role in the operating room, supporting surgeons, nurses, and patients.

With increasing demand for qualified healthcare professionals, pursuing a career as a surgical technician offers a stable and fulfilling opportunity. However, succeeding in this field requires more than just an initial certification. In this post, we’ll explore the education, skills, certification requirements, and beyond to help you understand what it takes to thrive as a surgical technician.

1. The Role of a Surgical Technician

A surgical technician is an integral part of the surgical team. They work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure surgeries go smoothly. Their duties range from sterilizing and setting up surgical instruments to maintaining a sterile environment during the procedure.

Surgical technicians also assist with the preparation of patients for surgery, ensuring they are positioned correctly and that all required equipment is in place.

During surgery, they pass instruments to the surgeon, monitor equipment, and may even handle specimens for laboratory analysis. The importance of their role cannot be understated, as they ensure that surgeries run safely and efficiently.

2. Education Requirements

To become a surgical technician, formal education is essential. Most aspiring surgical techs pursue a diploma, certificate, or associate degree from an accredited institution. Programs typically last between 12 and 24 months and cover subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, medical terminology, and surgical procedures.

Hands-on training in a clinical setting is also a crucial part of the curriculum. For those looking to become a surgical technician in Georgia, state-approved programs are available, and graduates can qualify to sit for certification exams. Though the educational path is relatively short compared to other healthcare careers, it provides a solid foundation in the skills and knowledge needed for the operating room.

3. Certification: The First Key Step

While education forms the foundation, certification is often required to officially work as a surgical technician. The most recognized certification for surgical technicians is provided by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To earn the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, candidates must pass a rigorous exam.

This certification demonstrates a commitment to professional standards and ensures that you have the knowledge and skills to perform the job safely and competently. Many employers, especially in hospital settings, require this certification as a condition of employment, and it can significantly boost your career prospects.

4. Specializations and Continuing Education

One of the advantages of working as a surgical technician is the ability to specialize in certain types of surgeries. After gaining experience, many surgical techs choose to focus on areas like cardiovascular surgery, orthopedic surgery, or neurosurgery. Specialization can enhance career satisfaction, increase job security, and even lead to higher salaries.

Additionally, continuing education is a critical aspect of long-term success in this field. Surgical technology evolves with new techniques, instruments, and regulations, so professionals must stay current. The NBSTSA requires certified techs to renew their certification every four years, and continuing education credits help meet these requirements while expanding knowledge and skills.

5. The Importance of Soft Skills

While technical proficiency is crucial for a surgical technician, soft skills are equally important. Surgical techs work under pressure in fast-paced environments, often during life-saving procedures. As a result, they must possess excellent communication skills, work well within a team, and maintain composure during stressful situations.

Attention to detail is paramount, as a small mistake can have significant consequences in an operating room. Additionally, surgical techs need to have a strong sense of empathy and emotional intelligence. 

6. Job Market and Growth Opportunities

The demand for surgical technicians is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of surgical techs is projected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, a pace faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population that requires more surgical interventions, advances in medical technology, and an increase in outpatient surgical centers.

Additionally, surgical technicians can explore advancement opportunities, such as becoming surgical first assistants, where they take on more hands-on responsibilities during surgery. With the right experience and additional certification, surgical techs can continue to advance within the healthcare field.

The path to becoming a surgical technician requires dedication, education, and a commitment to excellence. From completing an accredited program to obtaining certification, and staying updated on the latest advancements in the field, surgical techs play a vital role in the success of surgical teams.

While technical expertise is essential, the importance of soft skills like communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence cannot be overlooked. With a growing demand for surgical technicians and numerous opportunities for specialization and career advancement, this profession offers a promising future for those willing to invest in their education and professional development.