Are you a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) looking to transition into a new role in the medical field? Have you considered becoming a Surgical Technologist? With the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, making the leap from LPN to Surgical Tech can be a great career move. In this article, we'll explore the 5 steps you can take to make this transition a success.
Why Transition from LPN to Surgical Tech?
Before we dive into the steps, let's explore why becoming a Surgical Technologist can be a great career move for LPNs. As a Surgical Tech, you'll have the opportunity to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. You'll also have the chance to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.
Additionally, the job outlook for Surgical Technologists is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 3% growth in employment opportunities through 2029. This growth is due in part to the increasing demand for healthcare services and the need for skilled professionals to support surgical teams.
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
To become a Surgical Technologist, you'll need to meet the basic requirements for the profession. These typically include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a Surgical Technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
- A certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification
As an LPN, you've already completed a significant amount of education and training in the medical field. However, you'll still need to complete a Surgical Technology program to gain the specific skills and knowledge required for this role.
LPN Educational Background
As an LPN, you've already completed a diploma or associate's degree program in practical nursing. While this education and training have provided you with a strong foundation in patient care and medical procedures, you'll still need to complete a Surgical Technology program to become a Surgical Technologist.
Step 2: Research and Choose a Surgical Technology Program
Once you've decided to become a Surgical Technologist, it's time to research and choose a Surgical Technology program that meets your needs and career goals. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a program:
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES.
- Curriculum: Ensure the program covers the necessary topics, including surgical procedures, patient care, and medical terminology.
- Clinical experience: Look for programs that offer hands-on clinical experience in a real-world setting.
- Certification: Ensure the program prepares you for the CST certification exam.
Online vs. On-Campus Programs
When choosing a Surgical Technology program, you'll need to decide between online and on-campus options. Online programs offer flexibility and convenience, while on-campus programs provide hands-on training and face-to-face interaction with instructors.
Step 3: Complete the Surgical Technology Program
Once you've chosen a program, it's time to complete the necessary coursework and clinical training. Surgical Technology programs typically include both classroom and clinical training, covering topics such as:
- Surgical procedures and patient care
- Medical terminology and anatomy
- Pharmacology and anesthesia
- Sterilization and infection control
LPN Transfer Credits
As an LPN, you may be able to transfer credits from your previous education and training. This can help reduce the amount of time and money required to complete the Surgical Technology program.
Step 4: Obtain Certification
After completing the Surgical Technology program, it's time to obtain certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). The CST certification is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) and is recognized as the standard for Surgical Technologists.
CST Certification Requirements
To become certified as a CST, you'll need to meet the following requirements:
- Complete a Surgical Technology program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES
- Pass the CST certification exam
- Maintain certification through continuing education and professional development
Step 5: Pursue Career Opportunities
After becoming certified as a CST, it's time to pursue career opportunities in the field. As a Surgical Technologist, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.
Surgical Technologist Career Outlook
The career outlook for Surgical Technologists is strong, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 3% growth in employment opportunities through 2029. This growth is due in part to the increasing demand for healthcare services and the need for skilled professionals to support surgical teams.
Gallery of Surgical Technologist Career Paths
What is the average salary for a Surgical Technologist?
+The average salary for a Surgical Technologist is around $48,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is the job outlook for Surgical Technologists?
+The job outlook for Surgical Technologists is strong, with a 3% growth in employment opportunities through 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What are the educational requirements for becoming a Surgical Technologist?
+To become a Surgical Technologist, you'll need to complete a Surgical Technology program accredited by CAAHEP or ABHES and obtain certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).