Are you passionate about healthcare and eager to play a vital role in the operating room? If so, becoming a surgical technologist might be the perfect career path for you! Surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, are essential members of the surgical team. They work under the direction of surgeons and registered nurses to ensure the operating room is safe and sterile and that all equipment is functioning properly. They also assist during surgical procedures by passing instruments, holding retractors, and anticipating the surgeon's needs. This career demands precision, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Finding the right school is the first and most important step to launching your career. The school you choose significantly impacts the quality of your education, your clinical experience, and your job prospects after graduation. Let's dive into how to choose the best surgical tech school for you.

What to Look for in a Surgical Technology Program

Choosing the right surgical technology program is a critical decision that will significantly impact your future career. With numerous options available, it's essential to know what to look for to ensure you receive a quality education and are well-prepared for the demands of the job. Here are the key factors to consider when evaluating surgical technology programs:

Accreditation

Accreditation is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a surgical technology program. Accreditation means that the program has been evaluated by an independent agency and has met specific standards of quality. Attending an accredited program ensures that you will receive a comprehensive education that meets industry standards, which increases your chances of passing the certification exam and finding employment after graduation. The two main accrediting bodies for surgical technology programs are:

• The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP): CAAHEP is the most widely recognized accrediting body for surgical technology programs. Programs accredited by CAAHEP have demonstrated a commitment to providing high-quality education and preparing students for successful careers as surgical technologists.
• The Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES): ABHES is another recognized accrediting body for surgical technology programs. While ABHES accreditation is less common than CAAHEP, it still indicates that the program has met specific standards of quality.

Program Curriculum

The curriculum of a surgical technology program should provide you with a strong foundation in the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the operating room. Look for a program that covers the following topics:

• Surgical Technology Principles: This includes the fundamentals of surgical asepsis, sterilization techniques, surgical instrumentation, and surgical procedures.
• Anatomy and Physiology: A thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology is essential for surgical technologists to understand surgical procedures and anticipate the surgeon's needs.
• Medical Terminology: Surgical technologists must be fluent in medical terminology to communicate effectively with other members of the surgical team.
• Pharmacology: Surgical technologists need to understand the medications used in the operating room and their potential side effects.
• Patient Care: Surgical technologists must be able to provide safe and compassionate care to patients before, during, and after surgery.

Clinical Experience

Clinical experience is an integral part of any surgical technology program. This hands-on training allows you to apply what you've learned in the classroom to real-world surgical settings. Look for a program that offers a significant amount of clinical experience in a variety of surgical specialties, such as general surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiovascular surgery, and neurosurgery. The more clinical experience you have, the better prepared you will be to enter the workforce.

Faculty Qualifications

The faculty of a surgical technology program should be experienced and qualified to teach the subject matter. Look for instructors who are certified surgical technologists (CSTs) with years of experience working in the operating room. These instructors can provide you with valuable insights into the realities of the profession and help you develop the skills you need to succeed.

Job Placement Rates

Job placement rates are a good indicator of the program's effectiveness in preparing students for employment. Ask the program about its job placement rates for recent graduates. A high job placement rate suggests that the program is well-respected by employers and that its graduates are in demand.

Program Length and Cost

Surgical technology programs typically take 1-2 years to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time. Consider the program length and cost when making your decision. Make sure you can afford the tuition and other expenses associated with the program. Also, consider the opportunity cost of attending school full-time, which may mean giving up your current job.

Top Schools for Surgical Technology

While a definitive ranking can fluctuate and depend heavily on individual needs and preferences, here are some schools known for their strong surgical technology programs. Remember to conduct thorough research and consider the factors mentioned above when making your final decision:

• Meridian College (Florida): Meridian College is known for its hands-on training and experienced faculty. Their surgical technology program prepares students for entry-level positions in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare facilities.
• Cambridge College of Healthcare & Technology (Multiple Locations): Cambridge College offers a comprehensive surgical technology program with a focus on clinical experience. They have multiple campuses across the United States.
• Hussian College (Multiple Locations): Hussian College provides surgical technology programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the operating room. They also focus on career services to help graduates find employment.
• Pima Medical Institute (Multiple Locations): Pima Medical Institute is a well-established healthcare career training school with surgical technology programs at multiple locations. They emphasize practical training and career readiness.
• Fortis College (Multiple Locations): Fortis College offers surgical technology programs that combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. They have a strong focus on preparing students for the CST exam.

Online Surgical Technology Programs: Are They a Good Option?

While hands-on clinical experience is crucial in surgical technology, some programs offer online components, typically for the didactic (classroom-based) portion of the curriculum. However, complete online surgical technology programs are rare due to the intense hands-on nature of the profession. If you are considering a program with an online component, ensure that it includes a substantial amount of in-person clinical training at an accredited healthcare facility. Be wary of programs that promise certification based solely on online learning.

Certification for Surgical Technologists

Certification is highly recommended for surgical technologists. It demonstrates your competence and commitment to the profession and can improve your job prospects. The most common certification for surgical technologists is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible for the CST exam, you must graduate from a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited surgical technology program.

Career Outlook and Salary for Surgical Technologists

The job outlook for surgical technologists is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 9% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The demand for surgical technologists is driven by the aging population and the increasing number of surgical procedures being performed. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $48,530 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, education, location, and employer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right surgical technology school is a significant investment in your future. By considering accreditation, curriculum, clinical experience, faculty qualifications, job placement rates, and program cost, you can find a program that will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this rewarding career. Remember to research different programs, visit campuses, and talk to current students and graduates before making your decision. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goal of becoming a surgical technologist and making a difference in the lives of patients.