If you’re a surgical tech or are considering this field, you may be wondering about career options. The first option, obviously, is that you can work as a surgical tech for your entire career. This profession is rewarding, challenging, and never boring. It allows surgical techs to make a difference in people’s lives every single day. However, if you decide that you want to explore your options in the field, we can help you get started.
Specialize
If you are a surgical tech, you may find that you are drawn more to one type of surgery. If that’s the case, you may decide to specialize in that type of surgery. Areas of specialty include obstetrics and gynecology, cardiovascular, orthopedic, neurology, reconstructive, urology, and ear/nose/throat, among others. Your career will still be as rewarding as it was when you were a generalist, but your focus will be narrower.
It’s important to note that specializing allows you to keep your options open if you choose to do so. As a specialized professional, you can still work as a general technician in operating room settings. This option may be especially appealing for people who work in smaller hospitals or outpatient surgical centers. There may not be enough work in your specialty area, but you can scrub in on general surgeries, as well.
Become a First Assistant
Surgical techs have specific duties before, during, and after surgery. Although a surgical tech and the first assistant may perform some of the same duties, the surgical first assistant is more focused on assisting the surgeon during surgery. The healthcare providers in the operating room work as a team, but the first assistant works very closely with the surgeon.
The first assistant may have additional responsibilities, including performing basic procedures on the patient, such as cutting tissue, suturing, or closing wounds, under the surgeon’s direct instruction. This may be an option for surgical techs who want additional challenges and are interested in being more involved in the hands-on aspects of the procedure.
Become a Manager or Administrator
Some people enjoy management or working as an administrator, and surgical techs have options in that realm, as well. This may include managing surgical teams, managing a department, or managing an outpatient surgery center. This may be an option for you if you have strong organizational skills and are willing to assume a leadership role.
It’s important to note that some basic business training is beneficial for surgical technicians who delve into management, as are organizational and communication skills. If this is the career path for you, you can build on skills you already have and take courses or pursue a degree to help you gain other skills you need.
It’s Your Future
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. Surgical techs have career path options, and you may find that one of them appeals to you. When you’re looking for your next assignment, call us at 310.436.3650. We’re always ready to help.