A career as a Surgical Technologist (ST) offers a direct path into the fast-paced environment of the operating room. STs function as an indispensable part of the surgical team, working alongside surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure safe procedures. Demand for these skilled professionals is consistently high due to the increasing number of surgical procedures performed annually. Certification is the recognized standard for demonstrating competence and commitment to patient safety. This guide outlines the steps required to enter and succeed in this field.
Defining the Role of a Surgical Technologist
The daily work of a surgical technologist is divided into three distinct phases: preparation, procedure, and cleanup. Before a patient enters the operating room, the ST handles the preoperative phase, which includes meticulous preparation of the environment. This involves gathering, counting, and arranging all surgical instruments and equipment, as well as preparing sterile solutions. The technologist also assists in readying the patient for surgery by positioning them, applying sterile drapes, and disinfecting the incision site.
During the procedure, the technologist’s primary role is to anticipate the surgeon’s needs and maintain the integrity of the sterile field. They pass the correct instruments, supplies, and equipment to the surgeon and first assistant. This requires a deep understanding of the surgical procedure.
Postoperative duties begin with a final count of all sponges, sharps, and instruments. The technologist assists with applying sterile dressings and safely handles and disposes of contaminated supplies. Cleaning and preparing instruments for sterilization, along with readying the operating room for the next patient, concludes the case.
Selecting and Completing an Accredited Training Program
Formal training is the foundational requirement for this career. Programs are typically offered as a certificate, diploma, or an Associate of Applied Science degree. The length varies depending on the credential, generally ranging from nine months to two years.
Programmatic accreditation determines eligibility for the national certification examination. Programs must be accredited by either the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
The curriculum includes both didactic instruction and supervised clinical experience. Didactic coursework covers subjects like anatomy, physiology, microbiology, surgical procedures, and pharmacology. The clinical component requires students to complete hands-on hours in an operating room setting under direct supervision. This practice is essential for developing the necessary psychomotor skills and sterile technique.
The Certification Process
Professional certification is required for practice. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is granted by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Eligibility for the CST examination depends on graduating from a surgical technology program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES.
The certification exam assesses the candidate’s knowledge. The NBSTSA examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions, and candidates are allotted four hours to complete the test. Content is divided into domains, including preoperative preparation, intraoperative procedures, postoperative duties, and administrative or equipment-related tasks.
Post-Certification Requirements and Continuing Education
While national certification is the industry standard, some states may have additional requirements, such as mandating specific registration or licensure to legally practice. These state-specific regulations are separate from the national certification, but the CST credential is often a prerequisite for obtaining them.
The CST certification must be maintained through a formal recertification process administered by the NBSTSA on a two-year cycle. To renew the credential by continuing education, a Certified Surgical Technologist must accrue 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within that period. At least four CEUs must be earned through “live” activities, such as workshops or in-person physician lectures.
Career Advancement and Outlook
The career outlook for surgical technologists is strong. Employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $62,830 in May 2024.
Technologists can pursue several avenues for professional advancement. A common path is to become a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), a role that involves more direct hands-on assistance to the surgeon, such as providing exposure, controlling bleeding, and suturing. Experienced technologists may move into leadership roles, such as surgical services manager, transition into education as program instructors, or specialize in areas like neurosurgery, cardiac surgery, or orthopedic procedures.