Since 1984, surgical technologists (or "Surg techs" as the medical industry calls them) have been recognized for their challenging, and essential, work. Their performance affects before, during, and after a procedure within the operating room. Working in hospitals and clinics globally, surgical technologists play a vital role in ensuring the process, whether the surgery is performed in inpatient or outpatient.

National Surgical Technologists Week, which runs from September 19 to 25 in 2021, is a way to raise awareness of the thankless men and women who fulfill these roles. The Association of Surgical Technologists Board of Directors dedicated the third week in September to highlight the profession. If you've been contemplating starting a career within the medical field and you're uncertain about the area in which you would like to go into or have been interested in becoming a surgical tech, here are some significant aspects to consider:

Academic Requirements 

Beginning the process and training to become a surgical technologist can be offered by vocational schools, two-year community colleges or universities, the military, or even hospitals themselves. Programs typically take twelve months towards a certificate and two years working to obtain an associate’s degree.

A person studying towards either a certificate or an associate degree to become a "surg tech" will have to graduate from a surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau Health Education Schools (ABHES). The military has its accreditation program that is eligible for certification upon a passing score for those coming from the military.

Workplace Options 

Surg techs have a bit of adaptability concerning which environment they care to work in upon obtaining a certificate or degree to be a surgical technologist. Although over 70% are operating within a hospital environment as of 2016, surgical techs are still highly valuable within physician offices, outpatient care centers, and dental offices. Regardless of where a surgical tech will start or advance their career, they will be working as part of a large medical and non–medical team to provide the patient with the highest quality of care before, during, and after a procedure.

Duties for the Job 

A surgical technologist's job does not start when the patient is only in the operating room. Before any operation, surgical techs prepare the operating room for surgery, including sterilizing tools to ensure the room is well-stocked of any supplies necessary or that the performing surgeon requests. The technician helps pass nurses and surgeons the tools they need during the procedure while keeping everything sanitary and connecting drains. Post-operative duties include:

  • Dressing incision sites. 

  • Assisting with a patient transfer. 

  • Going back to sanitize the room and preparing for the next operation. 

WSi Can Help  

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists are an essential part of today's medical field and hold a projected growth of 7% within the area through 2029. WSi Healthcare Personnel specializes in placing healthcare professionals in necessary and rewarding healthcare positions. If you're a surgical tech looking for a different path or assignment, WSi is here to lead you to exciting opportunities within your area of expertise.