From Scrubs to Scissors: The Journey to Become a Surgical Technologist

Do you often dream about how you can make a difference in other’s lives? Maybe even think about how incredible it would be to assist during surgery? If so, the career of Surgical Technologist might just be calling your name. But how do you get into the operating room, and what exactly does the job entail? 

Let’s explore the journey to become a surgical technologist:

Obtain the Crucial Education — Herzing Can Help

First things first, you must obtain a degree. Identify a school and program that suits your lifestyle and aligns with your professional goals. Herzing University offers a comprehensive Surgical Technologist Program that can be completed in just 20 months preparing students with fundamental knowledge, surgical pharmacology skills, surgical principles, and hands-on surgical practice. With this Associate of Science in Surgical Technology degree, you will be fully equipped with the expertise and training to handle lifesaving medical equipment on the job. 

Finding Hands-On Clinical Experience

As a vital part of the training and education to become a surg tech, clinical experience is a prerequisite before you obtain your degree. Your clinical externship can include valuable work experience at a hospital, where you will get hands-on learning to prepare you for your career. You will learn more about the day-to-day requirements and responsibilities, along with learning how to use your technical knowledge to help others and excel in a team setting. While it is a requirement for the degree, clinicals are often a student’s favorite part of their education as they learn outside of a classroom and textbook for the first time. Plus, you can build relationships that can lead to future employment post-graduation, expanding your valuable professional network.

Navigating the Necessary Skills-Training

Any job in the medical field, particularly surgical, requires the individual to be adept in the ability to work in potentially high-stress situations. As a surgical tech, you will need to be skilled at communicating with a wide range of people – from surgeons to nurses, to patients. As an irreplaceable part of the surgical team, you must know the ins and outs of a variety of surgical procedures and the strict aseptic technique. Because of the level of preparation needed, along with the critical aseptic policies, you will need to pay close attention to every single detail – a minor slip-up can lead to dangerous situations if not corrected quickly.

Step Up: Surgical Technology in Action

Now is the part you’ve been waiting for. Once you’ve completed your courses, clinical externship and passed your national certification exam, you are ready to get in the operating room and help save lives. The program at Herzing University has prepared you to take on any challenges, but now is the time to put your knowledge and skills into action. As a Surgical Technologist, you will likely either be starting in the early morning or late in the evening to ensure equipment is set up for the next surgery. 

Once the surgery begins, you may help the surgical team with essential tasks such as passing instruments. After the surgery is complete, you then clean the room and prepare it for the next surgery and patient. Throughout the day, your work makes a direct, positive impact not only on the patient getting surgery but reducing the burden and stresses of your fellow healthcare workers, making it a highly rewarding career.

Ready to Make a Real Difference?

Sounding too good to be true? For the right person with a passion for healthcare, and a keen eye for detail, the surg tech pathway allows you to help save lives and ensure proper care. If you’re ready to get started or want to learn more about the journey ahead, check out more information on the Herzing University Surgical Technologist program.