How to Become a Surgical Technician in Florida

A career as a surgical technician is a rewarding one, filled with the satisfaction of helping people in a critical capacity. In Florida, the demand for skilled surgical techs is high, making it an attractive career path. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the journey to becoming a certified surgical tech in the Sunshine State.

Step 1: Understand the Role of a Surgical Technician

Surgical technicians are crucial members of the surgical team, responsible for a wide range of tasks that ensure smooth and safe procedures. Their duties include:

• Preparing the operating room, including sterilizing instruments and setting up equipment.
• Assisting the surgeon during procedures by handing them instruments and supplies.
• Monitoring the patient’s vital signs and ensuring their safety throughout the operation.
• Maintaining a sterile environment to prevent infection.
• Documenting procedures and patient information.

Step 2: Meet the Educational Requirements

In Florida, aspiring surgical techs have two primary paths to becoming certified:

A. Formal Surgical Technology Program

• Accreditation: Choose a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA). This ensures the program meets the highest standards of quality.
• Program Duration: Typically, programs are either one or two years long, offering a comprehensive education in surgical technology.
• Curriculum: These programs cover a broad range of topics, including surgical anatomy, physiology, sterilization techniques, medical terminology, and operating room procedures.
• Clinical Experience: A crucial component of any surgical technology program is extensive clinical rotations in various operating room settings. These rotations allow students to gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced surgical techs.

B. On-the-Job Training

• Rare but Possible: While less common than formal programs, some facilities offer on-the-job training opportunities. This typically involves working under the guidance of experienced surgical techs, learning their duties and responsibilities.
• Stricter Requirements: Hospitals with on-the-job training programs often have more stringent requirements, such as prior experience in a healthcare setting or a related medical field.
• Limited Availability: Finding on-the-job training opportunities can be challenging, as hospitals generally prefer candidates with formal education.

Step 3: Prepare for the Certification Exam

Once you’ve completed your education, the next step is to obtain your certification. In Florida, the primary certifying body for surgical technicians is the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

NBSTSA Certification

• Exam Eligibility: You must meet the NBSTSA’s eligibility requirements, which typically include graduation from an accredited surgical technology program and completion of the required clinical hours.
• Exam Content: The NBSTSA exam covers a wide range of topics, including surgical anatomy, physiology, instruments, sterilization, safety, and surgical procedures.
• Exam Format: The exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions.
• Passing Score: You must achieve a passing score on the exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

Step 4: Maintain Your Certification

Surgical technology is a dynamic field with continuous advancements. To keep your skills sharp and maintain your certification, you’ll need to engage in ongoing professional development.

Continuing Education Requirements

• NBSTSA Requirements: The NBSTSA requires CSTs to complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) every two years to maintain their certification. These CEUs can be earned through various methods, such as attending workshops, taking courses, or participating in professional conferences.
• Staying Current: Continuing education helps you stay abreast of the latest surgical techniques, technologies, and safety protocols. This ensures you’re providing the highest quality care to your patients.
• Maintaining Professionalism: Active participation in professional development activities also demonstrates your commitment to the field and your dedication to continuous learning.

Step 5: Finding Jobs in Florida

Florida is a state with a strong healthcare system, offering a wide range of employment opportunities for certified surgical technicians.

Job Market Outlook

• High Demand: The demand for surgical techs in Florida is expected to remain high in the coming years, driven by a growing population and an aging demographic.
• Diverse Healthcare Settings: Surgical techs can find employment in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, surgical centers, clinics, and physician’s offices.
• Competitive Salaries: Salaries for surgical techs in Florida are generally competitive and can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

Job Search Strategies

• Online Job Boards: Popular online job boards like Indeed, Monster, and CareerBuilder can be valuable resources for finding surgical tech positions in Florida.
• Professional Networking: Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and network with other surgical techs to explore job opportunities.
• Hospital Websites: Visit the websites of major hospitals and healthcare systems in Florida to check for open positions.
• Direct Applications: Reach out to hospitals and surgical centers directly to inquire about potential job openings.

Additional Tips for Aspiring Surgical Techs

• Develop Strong Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in the operating room, where you’ll need to interact with surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team.
• Cultivate a Positive Attitude: A positive and professional attitude is crucial in a fast-paced and demanding environment like the operating room.
• Maintain a High Level of Attention to Detail: Precision and accuracy are critical in surgical procedures, and you’ll need to pay close attention to detail in your work.
• Stay Physically Fit: Surgical techs must be physically fit to stand for long periods, lift heavy equipment, and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Be Prepared for Stressful Situations: The operating room can be a stressful environment, and you’ll need to be able to handle pressure and remain calm under difficult circumstances.