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If you are considering a career in surgical technology, you may be wondering if the job is worth it. Here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision.
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Introduction
There are many reasons to become a surgical tech. The job is interesting and challenging, and it offers good pay and benefits. But, like any job, it also has its downsides. So, is being a surgical tech worth it?
To help you make a decision, let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of the job.
Pros of being a surgical tech:
– Decent pay: Surgical techs earn a median salary of $47,300 per year (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics). That’s not bad!
– Good benefits: Most surgical tech jobs come with decent benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans.
– Flexible hours: Many surgical tech positions offer flexible hours, which can be great for people who have other commitments outside of work.
– Job security: The demand for surgical techs is expected to grow by 4% over the next decade (faster than the average for all occupations), so job security is good.
Cons of being a surgical tech:
– Stressful job: Surgical techs work in high-pressure environments and are responsible for helping to save people’s lives. It’s not a job for everyone!
– Long hours: Surgical techs often work long hours, including nights and weekends. This can be tough on your personal life.
– exposure to infections: Surgical techs are exposed to infections and other diseases on a regular basis. It’s important to take precautions to avoid becoming sick yourself.
What is a surgical tech?
With an aging population and advances in medical technology, the demand for surgical technicians, also called operating room technicians or scrub techs, is expected to grow much faster than average in coming years. Employment of surgical techs is projected to increase by 19% from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s more than three times the average growth rate for all occupations.
A surgical tech is a member of the surgical team who works closely with the surgeon, registered nurse and other members of the operating room staff. The surgical tech’s primary responsibility is to ensure that the operating room is ready for surgery and that the equipment needed for the procedure is sterilized and working properly. The surgical tech also may prep the patient for surgery by washing and disinfecting the incision site. During surgery, the surgical tech hands instruments and other supplies to the surgeon as needed. After surgery, the surgical tech may help care for the patient in the recovery room.
The education and training required to become a surgical tech
The education and training required to become a surgical tech can vary depending on the state in which you practice. In some states, surgical techs are required to complete an accredited surgical technology program and pass a credentialing exam. In other states, there is no formal education or training requirement and surgical techs learn on the job.
The typical educational path to becoming a surgical tech includes completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing an accredited surgical technology program. These programs typically take between one and two years to complete and include both classroom and clinical instruction. Upon completion of an accredited program, surgical techs are eligible to take the credentialing exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam is required for employment in many healthcare facilities.
The duties of a surgical tech
A surgical tech, also called a scrub tech, circulating nurse or operatory technician, is an allied health professional who works under the supervision of a licensed surgeon. The surgical tech’s primary duties are completing patient assessments prior to surgery, setting up the sterile field, passing instruments to the surgeon during surgery and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the procedure. Surgical techs may also work in the pre-op and post-op areas of surgery.
The work environment of a surgical tech
Every job has its positive and negative aspects, but you may be wondering if being a surgical tech is worth it. Surgical techs play an important role in the operating room, and they work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team. If you are interested in a career in the medical field, but you don’t want to be a doctor or a nurse, becoming a surgical tech could be a good option for you.
One of the best things about being a surgical tech is that you gets to work in a fast-paced environment. If you enjoy working on teams and you like being able to think on your feet, you will probably enjoy working as a surgical tech. Another positive aspect of this career is that it can be very rewarding. Knowing that you have helped save someone’s life can be a great feeling.
Of course, there are some negative aspects of being a surgical tech as well. One of the biggest drawbacks is the long hours. Surgical techs often work long shifts, and they may be on their feet for most of the day. This can be physically demanding, and it can also be emotionally draining. Another downside to this career is that it can be stressful. If you don’t like working under pressure, being a surgical tech may not be the right choice for you.
So, is being a surgical tech worth it? That’s ultimately up to you to decide. If you are interested in this career, it’s important to do your research and make sure that it’s the right fit for you.
The job outlook for surgical techs
The job outlook for surgical techs is promising. Employment of surgical techs is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.2 The aging Baby Boomer population will require more medical procedures, such as hip replacements and cataract removals. In addition, as technology advances, newer and more sophisticated surgical procedures (such as minimally invasive surgery) will be used more often, resulting in increased demand for surgical techs.
The pros and cons of being a surgical tech
There are many reasons why people choose to become surgical techs. Some are drawn to the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. Others are motivated by the chance to help save lives and make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.
However, there are also some potential downsides to the job that surgical techs should be aware of before they make the decision to enter the field. These include the potential for long hours, exposure to potentially hazardous materials, and the possibility of emotionally stressful situations.
Conclusion
After looking at all of the pros and cons, we can conclude that being a surgical tech is definitely worth it! The pros far outweigh the cons, and surgical techs play a vital role in ensuring that surgeries go smoothly. If you’re considering a career in the medical field, we highly recommend becoming a surgical tech!
