Surgical Technologist
Surgical technologists are also known as operating room technicians who are involved in providing surgical care. They are the members of the surgical team in any medical institution. Surgical technologists have knowledge of sterile and aseptic techniques. The students who enroll in this program are given basic information about surgical instruments, sterile techniques, and management during surgery.
Surgical Technologist
The Surgical Technologist Training Program is designed to prepare students to function as members of the surgical team in hospitals and clinics with registered nurses and surgeons in the operating room. The program curriculum consists of medical terminology; human anatomy and physiology; fundamentals of pharmacology; microbiology and immunology. Students are taught ethics as well as good communication skills to enhance teamwork in operating rooms. Students are familiarized with basic knowledge of surgical instruments, aseptic techniques, draping techniques and surgical site management.
Following are the tasks a surgical technologist must perform with every surgery:
Preoperative (Sterile Hands): The surgical technologist is the first person to enter the OR before surgery. During this preoperative phase the surgical technologist adheres closely to the following routine:
- Carefully wears his/her operating room attire, including scrubs
- Begins to prepare and sterilize the operating room and maintain OR’s sterile environment
- Gathers all of the equipment and surgical tools that the surgery requires
- Sterilizes, counts and carefully arranges surgical tools
Intraoperative (The Third Hand): During the intraoperative phase of the surgery, surgical technologists are still responsible for maintaining the sterility of the OR, but they also effectively become a “third hand” to the surgeon and surgeon’s assistant during the procedure and perform the following tasks:
- Help prepare medications & administer them to the patient
- Assist in retracting tissues from the patient
- Passes the surgical tools to the surgeon and surgical assistant during the operation
Postoperative (Tying Things Up): As the operation concludes, surgical techs are responsible for the following:
- Counting all of the tools and instruments used during surgery to ensure that nothing is left behind in a patient
- Suture the incision and apply disinfected dressings to the area
- Dispose of items such as needles and gauze. Also continue to maintain the OR’s sterile environment until the patient is sent to the recovery ward
Stellar Career College Surgical Technologist Program in Chicago: A Detailed Overview
Stellar College's surgical technologist program in Chicago is known for its exceptional curriculum, experienced faculty, and comprehensive hands-on training. The program emphasizes the development of surgical concepts and the importance of maintaining a sterile environment. Students gain in-depth knowledge of surgical procedures, equipment, and patient care.
Curriculum
The curriculum of the Stellar College surgical technologist program consists of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. Some of the core courses include:
- Surgical Techniques
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Surgical Instrumentation
- Pharmacology
These courses equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as surgical technologists.
Clinical Experience
Stellar College's program places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience. Students participate in supervised clinical rotations, where they have the opportunity to work alongside experienced surgical technologists, surgeons, and nurses in real-life surgical settings. This invaluable experience enables students to apply the skills and knowledge they've gained in the classroom to real-world situations.
Accreditation and Certification Preparation
Stellar College's surgical technologist program is accredited by Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring that the curriculum meets industry standards. Graduates will be eligible to challenge national certification exam to become a “Certified Tech in Surgery” through NCCT.
Are you considering a career as a surgical technologist? The stellar college surgical technologist program in Chicago might be the perfect fit for you! This comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information on surgical tech programs, from the physical requirements and outlook to the salary and alternative job options. Let's dive in and explore the exciting world of surgical technology!
Program Objectives
- Grasp concepts of human anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology & infectious process
- Understand the principles of safe patient care in the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative settings
- Recognize the interdependent role of the Surgical Technologist with the other team members and ancillary services providers
- Develop and apply fundamental surgical assisting skills through practice and evaluation in the clinical setting
- Accurately apply the principles of asepsis across the spectrum of common surgical experiences
- Employ the Standard Precautions and other recognized safe practice guidelines in every surgical setting
- Recognize the variety of patients’ needs and the impact of his or her personal, physical, emotional and cultural experiences on the rendering of patient care
- Demonstrate professional responsibility in performance, attitude and personal conduct
More Information
Occupational Outlook and Wage Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Click Here)
Surgical Technologist Information From Careeronestop (Click Here)
Visit Our Youtube Channel To Learn More About Our Surgical Technologist Program (Click Here)
Learn more about Surgical Technologists by watching the videos below:
Program Completion:
A diploma will be awarded to those students who will successfully complete all required courses as per college’s Satisfactory Academic Requirements and fulfill their financial obligation towards the college.
Graduates will be eligible to challenge national certification exam to become a “Certified Tech in Surgery” through NCCT.
Admission Requirements:
REGISTRATION
- Applicants must complete an application for admission
- Applicants should schedule an appointment for an application interview
- Applicants must complete a nationally recognized basic skills assessment or have a High School diploma
- Applicants must complete and sign an enrollment agreement
Additional Requirements:
Accreditation:
IBHE Approval:
Program Highlights:
Program Format:
The College will offer this program in on-ground format as well as in hybrid format in which students can take up to 45% of the courses using online delivery method.
Program Curriculum:
BIO101 Basic Medical Terminology
BIO 102 Human Anatomy and Physiology I
BIO103 Fundamentals of Pharmacology & Microbiology
BIO 106 Human Anatomy and Physiology II
SUR 111 Surgical Technology I
SUR 112 Surgical Instrumentation I
SUR 113 Surgical Technology II
SUR 114 Surgical Instrumentation II
SUR 115 Surgical Technology III
SUR 116 Surgical Instrumentation III
SUR 121 Externship I
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More Details:
- Surgical Technologist: A Rewarding Career
- Surgical Technologist vs. Surgical Technician: Understanding the Difference
What's Surgical Technology?
Surgical technology involves assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during surgical procedures. A surgical tech's role is crucial in ensuring a sterile environment, proper equipment handling, and efficient patient care.
Is Surgical Tech a Growing Career?
Absolutely! The surgical tech outlook is quite promising, with a faster-than-average growth rate projected for the profession. As the population ages and the demand for surgical procedures increases, surgical techs will continue to be in high demand.
Is Surgical Technology and Surgical Technicians the Same Thing?
Yes, surgical technology and surgical technician refer to the same profession. Both terms describe the vital role played by these professionals in the operating room.
Surgical Tech Salaries: A Comparative Table
Here is a table comparing the average salaries of surgical techs, surgical instrument technicians, and OB techs in Chicago:
| Position | Average Salary Range | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical Tech | $40,000 - $60,000 | $19 - $29 |
| Surgical Instrument Tech | $30,000 - $45,000 | $14 - $22 |
| OB Tech | $35,000 - $55,000 | $17 - $26 |
Please note that these figures are for illustrative purposes and may vary depending on factors such as experience, certifications, and location.
By choosing to pursue a career as a surgical technologist, you can expect a competitive salary and a high level of job satisfaction. With the Stellar College program in Chicago, you'll receive the education and hands-on training necessary to excel in this rewarding profession. Start your journey today and explore the exciting world of surgical technology.
Surgical Technologist: A Growing Career Path
Surgical technologists are in high demand, and the field is experiencing significant growth. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 6% from 2021 to 2031, which is as fast as the average for all occupations.
Reasons for Growth
Several factors contribute to the growing demand for surgical technologists:
- An aging population: As the population ages, there will be an increased need for surgical procedures to treat various age-related conditions. This increased demand for surgeries will lead to a higher demand for surgical technologists.
- Technological advancements: New surgical technologies and techniques are continually being developed, increasing the complexity of surgical procedures. Skilled surgical technologists are essential to assist surgeons in performing these intricate operations.
- Emphasis on cost-effectiveness: Hospitals and other healthcare facilities are continually seeking ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Surgical technologists play a crucial role in ensuring that surgical procedures run smoothly and efficiently.
Surgical Tech Scope of Practice and Responsibilities
The surgical technologist scope of practice varies depending on the setting and specific role. However, common responsibilities include:
- Preparing the operating room and ensuring all necessary equipment is available and functioning properly
- Sterilizing instruments and maintaining a sterile environment
- Assisting with patient positioning and draping
- Handing instruments to the surgeon during the procedure
- Ensuring all surgical counts (instruments, sponges, needles, etc.) are accurate
- Assisting with patient transfer and post-operative care
Alternative Jobs for Surgical Techs
Chicagoland Area offers numerous opportunities for surgical tech jobs, with a range of hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and clinics in need of skilled professionals. The city's diverse healthcare landscape provides a variety of settings for surgical techs to build their careers.
Surgical technologists can explore various alternative career paths within the healthcare industry, leveraging their skills and knowledge. Some of these options include:
- Sterile Processing Technician: In this role, professionals are responsible for the decontamination, sterilization, and storage of surgical instruments and equipment.
- Medical Equipment Sales Representative: Surgical techs with strong communication and interpersonal skills can transition into sales roles, representing medical device companies and selling surgical equipment to healthcare facilities.
- Surgical First Assistant: With additional training, surgical technologists can advance their careers by becoming surgical first assistants. In this role, they provide more direct support to the surgeon during the operation, such as suturing and retracting tissues.
- Operating Room Coordinator: Surgical techs with strong organizational skills can pursue a career as an operating room coordinator, responsible for managing the scheduling, staffing, and overall coordination of the surgical suite.
- Surgical Tech Educator: Experienced surgical technologists may choose to share their knowledge by teaching aspiring surgical techs in educational settings, such as colleges or vocational schools.
The Stellar Career College Surgical technologist program in Chicago provides a comprehensive education that sets the foundation for a successful career in this growing field. With a range of job opportunities available and the potential for career advancement, now is an excellent time to explore a career as a surgical technologist.
Many people use the terms surgical technologist and surgical technician interchangeably, but there are slight differences between the two titles.
Surgical Technologist
A surgical technologist is a healthcare professional who has completed an accredited program in surgical technology, which typically takes 14-24 months. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are carried out safely and efficiently. Surgical technologists are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and assisting with patient care before, during, and after surgery.
Surgical Technician
A surgical technician, on the other hand, often refers to an entry-level position in the field of surgical technology. They may have completed a shorter, non-accredited program or received on-the-job training. Surgical technicians share many of the same responsibilities as surgical technologists, such as preparing the operating room and sterilizing instruments. However, they may have more limited responsibilities during surgery and may require more supervision.
Professional Advancement and Certification
Both surgical technologists and surgical technicians can advance their careers by obtaining certification. The Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) credential is awarded by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) to individuals who have completed an accredited program and passed a comprehensive exam. Certification can lead to increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater professional recognition.
Is Surgical Technologist a Doctor?
No, a surgical technologist is not a doctor. While they play a critical role in the operating room, they do not have the same level of education and training as a surgeon or physician. Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who support the surgical team by maintaining a sterile environment, preparing instruments, and assisting with patient care.
Education and Training
The best surgical tech program for you will depend on your personal preferences and career goals. Stellar Career College in Chicago offers a comprehensive surgical tech program designed to prepare students for a successful career in the field.
After completing your education, obtaining surgical tech certification is crucial to demonstrate your competency and commitment to the profession.
Online Surgical Tech Programs and Hybrid Programs
For those who require flexibility in their education, hybrid surgical tech programs offer an alternative to traditional, in-person programs. Online programs deliver much of the theoretical coursework through virtual platforms, allowing students to complete assignments and participate in discussions at their convenience.
Hybrid programs combine online learning with in-person clinical experiences, ensuring that students receive hands-on training in real-world surgical settings. These programs can be ideal for working professionals or those with family commitments, as they provide greater flexibility and the opportunity to balance education with other responsibilities.
Schooling for Surgical Tech
Schooling for surgical tech typically takes more than 14 months, including classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experiences. Some programs, like the surgical tech 1-year program, offer accelerated options for those seeking a faster route into the field.
Preparing for the Surgical Tech Certification Exam
To become a successful surgical technologist, it is crucial to prepare for the Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) certification exam. These exams assess your knowledge and skills, ensuring you are well-equipped to excel in the profession.
Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) Certification Exam
The Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) certification exam is administered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). This exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as:
● Perioperative care
● Surgical procedures
● Instrumentation and equipment
● Sterilization and disinfection
● Surgical conscience and patient safety
To pass the Tech in Surgery TS-C (NCCT) exam, follow these tips:
1. Obtain a study guide or review course materials from your surgical technologist program.
2. Create a study schedule and stick to it, ensuring you allocate sufficient time for each topic.
3. Take advantage of online resources, such as practice exams and quizzes.
4. Join study groups or online forums to share knowledge and learn from your peers.
5. Consider taking a review course, which can provide additional guidance and support.
FAQ
1: What is the role of the surgical tech?
The surgical tech is responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, assisting with patient positioning, and handing instruments to the surgeon during the procedure.
2: How to become a travel surgical tech?
To become a travel surgical tech, you must first complete an accredited surgical tech program and obtain certification. Then, you can apply for travel positions through agencies that specialize in placing healthcare professionals in temporary assignments.
3: How long does it take to become an OB tech?
Becoming an OB tech typically takes two years, including completion of a surgical tech program and obtaining experience in obstetrics and gynaecology.
4: How to become an OB tech?
To become an OB tech, you must complete an accredited surgical tech program and gain experience in obstetrics and gynaecology, either through on-the-job training or additional coursework.
5: How to pass the surgical technologist certification exam?
To pass the certification exam, it is crucial to study diligently, using resources such as textbooks, practice exams, and study guides. Additionally, the hands-on experience gained during your surgical tech program will be invaluable in preparing for the exam.