5 Ways To Become A Navy Surgical Tech

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Are you interested in pursuing a career in the medical field while serving your country? Becoming a Navy Surgical Technologist, also known as a Navy Operating Room Technician, can be a rewarding and challenging career path. As a Navy Surgical Tech, you will play a vital role in the healthcare team, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. In this article, we will explore the five ways to become a Navy Surgical Tech.

What is a Navy Surgical Technologist?

A Navy Surgical Technologist, also known as a Surgical Technologist or Operating Room Technician, is a crucial member of the healthcare team. They assist surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses during surgical procedures, ensuring that the operating room is prepared and that the patient receives the best possible care. Navy Surgical Techs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and aboard ships.

Benefits of Becoming a Navy Surgical Tech

Becoming a Navy Surgical Tech offers numerous benefits, including:

• Opportunities for advancement and specialization
• Competitive salary and benefits
• Education and training opportunities
• Travel and deployment opportunities
• Camaraderie and esprit de corps

5 Ways to Become a Navy Surgical Tech

Becoming a Navy Surgical Tech requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Here are the five ways to become a Navy Surgical Tech:

Method 1: Enlist in the Navy and Attend Basic Training

The first step to becoming a Navy Surgical Tech is to enlist in the Navy. You will need to meet the Navy's eligibility requirements, which include being a U.S. citizen, being between the ages of 17 and 34, and having a high school diploma or equivalent. Once you have enlisted, you will attend Basic Training, also known as Boot Camp, where you will learn the basics of Navy life and protocol.

Basic Training Requirements

• 8 weeks of Basic Training at the Navy's Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois
• Physical fitness test (PFT) requirements: 500-yard swim, 1.5-mile run, push-ups, and sit-ups
• Medical screening and evaluation

Method 2: Attend Surgical Technology School

After completing Basic Training, you will need to attend a surgical technology school that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). These programs typically last 12-18 months and include classroom and clinical training.

Surgical Technology School Requirements

• Accreditation by CAAHEP or ABHES
• 12-18 months of classroom and clinical training
• Curriculum includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and surgical techniques

Method 3: Complete an Apprenticeship Program

Another way to become a Navy Surgical Tech is to complete an apprenticeship program. These programs are typically 2-3 years in length and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Apprenticeship Program Requirements

• 2-3 years of on-the-job training and classroom instruction
• Completion of a surgical technology program or equivalent experience
• Certification by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Method 4: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in a Related Field

Obtaining a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as healthcare administration or biology, can also be beneficial for becoming a Navy Surgical Tech. These programs typically take 4 years to complete and provide a strong foundation in the sciences and healthcare.

Bachelor's Degree Requirements

• 4 years of coursework in a related field, such as healthcare administration or biology
• Completion of a surgical technology program or equivalent experience
• Certification by the NBSTSA

Method 5: Obtain Certification and Experience

Finally, obtaining certification and gaining experience are crucial steps in becoming a Navy Surgical Tech. Certification by the NBSTSA demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a surgical technologist. Gaining experience by working in a hospital or clinic can also be beneficial in preparing you for the demands of working as a Navy Surgical Tech.

Certification and Experience Requirements

• Certification by the NBSTSA
• 1-2 years of experience working as a surgical technologist
• Completion of a surgical technology program or equivalent experience

Gallery of Navy Surgical Tech Images

FAQ Section

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the five ways to become a Navy Surgical Tech. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and pursue your goals with determination and perseverance.