Surgical Tech Program At Gwinnett Tech: Career Overview

Quick Links :

Surgical technology is a fascinating field that combines medical knowledge, technical skills, and attention to detail. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, the Surgical Tech program at Gwinnett Technical College (Gwinnett Tech) is an excellent choice. In this article, we'll delve into the world of surgical technology, explore the program offered at Gwinnett Tech, and discuss the career opportunities and growth prospects in this field.

What is Surgical Technology?

Surgical technology, also known as operating room technology, is a healthcare profession that involves assisting surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, are responsible for preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and maintaining a safe and efficient environment for patients and medical staff.

Surgical Tech Program at Gwinnett Tech

The Surgical Tech program at Gwinnett Tech is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to succeed in this field. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and is offered at the Lawrenceville and Alpharetta-North Fulton campuses.

The program consists of:

• Classroom instruction: Students learn about human anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and surgical procedures in a classroom setting.
• Laboratory training: Students practice their skills in a simulated operating room environment, where they learn to prepare equipment, assist with procedures, and maintain patient safety.
• Clinical experience: Students participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers, where they gain hands-on experience in the operating room.

Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

Career Opportunities and Growth Prospects

Surgical technologists are in high demand, and the job outlook for this profession is excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Surgical technologists can work in a variety of settings, including:

• Hospitals: Surgical technologists work in hospital operating rooms, assisting with procedures and maintaining patient care.
• Surgical centers: Surgical technologists work in outpatient surgical centers, assisting with procedures and preparing patients for surgery.
• Private practices: Surgical technologists work in private practices, assisting surgeons and anesthesiologists with procedures.
• Specialized facilities: Surgical technologists work in specialized facilities, such as organ transplant centers and orthopedic surgery centers.

In addition to working in these settings, surgical technologists can also advance their careers by:

• Specializing: Surgical technologists can specialize in a particular area of surgery, such as neurosurgery or orthopedic surgery.
• Managing: Surgical technologists can move into management roles, overseeing surgical teams and coordinating surgical services.
• Teaching: Surgical technologists can teach in educational programs, sharing their knowledge and expertise with students.

Salary Range for Surgical Technologists

The salary range for surgical technologists varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and setting. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for surgical technologists was $48,330 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $30,000 to over $70,000 per year.

Benefits of a Career in Surgical Technology

A career in surgical technology offers many benefits, including:

• Job satisfaction: Surgical technologists play a critical role in patient care, and many find the work highly rewarding.
• Variety: Surgical technologists work on a wide range of procedures, from routine surgeries to complex operations.
• Opportunities for advancement: Surgical technologists can advance their careers by specializing, managing, or teaching.
• Competitive salaries: Surgical technologists are generally well-compensated, with median salaries ranging from $40,000 to over $70,000 per year.

How to Get Started in a Surgical Tech Program

If you're interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology, here are the steps to get started:

• Research programs: Research surgical tech programs in your area, including the program at Gwinnett Tech.
• Meet admission requirements: Meet the admission requirements for the program, which typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, prerequisite courses, and a minimum GPA.
• Apply to the program: Apply to the program, which may involve submitting an application, transcripts, and test scores.
• Complete the program: Complete the program, which typically takes around 12-18 months to complete.
• Pass the CST exam: Pass the CST exam, which is administered by the NBSTSA.

Conclusion

A career in surgical technology offers many rewards, including job satisfaction, variety, and opportunities for advancement. The Surgical Tech program at Gwinnett Tech is an excellent choice for those interested in pursuing a career in this field. With its comprehensive curriculum, clinical experience, and certification preparation, students are well-prepared to succeed in this exciting and challenging field.