5 Steps To Become A Surgical Tech At Gwinnett Tech

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Becoming a surgical technologist, also known as a surgical tech or operating room technician, can be a rewarding and challenging career goal. If you're interested in pursuing this career path at Gwinnett Technical College (Gwinnett Tech), here are five steps to help you get started:

Step 1: Meet the Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Surgical Technology program at Gwinnett Tech, you must meet the admission requirements. These requirements typically include:

• Earning a high school diploma or equivalent
• Completing prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• Taking the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI (Health Education Systems, Inc.) entrance exam
• Submitting official transcripts from previous educational institutions
• Completing an application for admission to Gwinnett Tech

Step 2: Complete the Surgical Technology Program

The Surgical Technology program at Gwinnett Tech is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this field. The program typically includes:

• Classroom instruction in subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques
• Clinical training in a hospital or surgical setting
• Hands-on practice in a simulated operating room environment
• Preparation for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam

The program usually takes two years to complete and leads to an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

In addition to classroom instruction, gaining practical experience is essential for becoming a successful surgical technologist. Gwinnett Tech offers students the opportunity to participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers. This hands-on experience allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.

Step 4: Obtain Certification

While not required, becoming certified as a surgical technologist can be beneficial for career advancement and increased earning potential. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is the most common certification for surgical technologists.

To become certified, you must:

• Graduate from 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)
• Pass the CST exam
• Maintain certification through continuing education and professional development

Step 5: Pursue Continuing Education and Professional Development

The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and surgical technologists must stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies. Gwinnett Tech offers continuing education courses and professional development opportunities to help surgical technologists maintain their certification and advance their careers.

Benefits of Becoming a Surgical Technologist at Gwinnett Tech

Becoming a surgical technologist at Gwinnett Tech can offer many benefits, including:

• Job placement assistance: Gwinnett Tech has a strong reputation in the healthcare industry, and many employers seek out graduates of the Surgical Technology program.
• Competitive salary: Surgical technologists are in high demand, and salaries can range from $40,000 to over $70,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
• Opportunities for advancement: With experience and additional education, surgical technologists can advance to leadership positions or pursue specialized roles, such as surgical first assisting or surgical education.

Gallery of Surgical Technologists at Work

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