Surgical Tech Career Guide
Travel surgical tech jobs offer a unique opportunity for surgical technologists to gain experience in different healthcare settings and explore new parts of the country. Travel assignments can range from a few weeks to several months, and may involve working in a variety of settings.
Surgical Tech Salaries
Salaries for surgical technologists vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and specialty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists in 2020 was $50,110, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $71,400.
Surgical Tech Specialties
There are a variety of different specialties within surgical technology, including cardiovascular, orthopedic, and neurosurgery. Each specialty requires specialized knowledge and skills, making it important for surgical technologists to pursue ongoing education and training throughout their careers.
Surgical Tech Roles & Responsibilities
The role of a surgical technologist can vary depending on the healthcare facility, but typically includes the following responsibilities:
Preparing the operating room: This includes sterilizing and organizing surgical equipment and supplies, as well as setting up the operating table and monitoring equipment.
Assisting during surgery: During the surgery, surgical technologists are responsible for passing instruments to the surgeon, handling specimens, and controlling bleeding.
Patient care: Before and after surgery, surgical technologists may be responsible for transporting patients to and from the operating room, as well as monitoring their vital signs and assisting with dressing changes and other post-operative care.
Surgical Tech Education
To become a surgical technologist, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Most employers also require completion of an accredited surgical technology program, which can range from a certificate to an associate’s degree. Surgical Techs who receive on the job training are often referred to as Surgical Technicians while Surgical Techs who complete an accredited program are usually referred to as Surgical Technologists.
Surgical Tech Certifications
Certification is not always required to work as a surgical technologist, but it is highly recommended. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) certification, which requires passing an exam and meeting ongoing education requirements.
Surgical Technician vs Surgical Technologist
While the terms surgical technician and surgical technologist are often used interchangeably, there are some differences between the two roles. In general, surgical technologists have a higher level of education and training than surgical technicians, and may have additional responsibilities during surgery.
Surgical technicians typically receive on-the-job training or complete a non-accredited training program, while surgical technologists complete an accredited program and may hold certification. Some states may also use different terminology or have specific requirements for surgical technology professionals.
Travel Surg Tech Experience Requirements
The experience requirements for surgical techs working for travel nursing agencies can vary depending on the agency and the specific job. Generally, travel nursing agencies prefer candidates who have at least one year of experience working in the operating room as a surgical technologist. Some agencies may require additional experience in a specific surgical specialty or a certain level of certification.
Travel Surgical Tech Jobs
Working with Medical Solutions or another healthcare staffing company has many pros and a few cons as well. We believe the benefits greatly outweigh any shortcomings. For example, as a travel surgical tech you will have the opportunity to earn more money while on assignment. This can be used to pay off student loan debt faster, retire earlier, or buy a house. It also provides an opportunity for taking more time for yourself. You can take time off between assignments to travel or just relax. You will also get a lot of valuable experience and get a chance to explore new places. Some of the cons include taking time away from your friends & family and being on the move a lot. However, data shows that travelers report a better work life balance so those cons might not be all that bad after all. If you haven’t considered a travel tech jobs, you should definitely consider Medical Solutions.
Benefits of Travel Surgical Tech Jobs
Higher pay: Travel surgical technologists often earn a higher hourly wage than those in permanent positions.
Flexibility: Travel assignments can offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and location, allowing surgical technologists to
Travel: The benefit of getting to explore different parts of the country cannot be understated.
Experience: As a travel surgical tech you will get a lot of experience that will help bolster your resume as your career develops further.