A surgical technologist, commonly referred to as a surgical tech, plays a vital role in the operating room by assisting surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals during surgeries. Surgical techs ensure that the operating room is sterile, organize surgical instruments, and provide the necessary tools to surgeons during procedures. They are essential members of the surgical team and contribute to the success and efficiency of surgeries by maintaining a smooth and safe operating environment.
Becoming a surgical tech requires specialized training and certification, but the path to entry is often shorter and less expensive than other healthcare professions, such as nursing or becoming a physician. For individuals interested in healthcare, surgery, and working in fast-paced environments, a career as a surgical tech can be rewarding. However, like any career, there are both advantages and challenges to consider. While the role offers opportunities for job security, decent pay, and the satisfaction of contributing to patient care, it also comes with physical demands, stressful situations, and the need for constant attention to detail.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 key pros and 10 cons of being a surgical tech. By understanding the benefits and potential drawbacks of the profession, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about whether this career path aligns with your goals, skills, and lifestyle preferences.
Pros Of Being A Surgical Tech
1. Shorter Educational Path
One of the biggest advantages of becoming a surgical tech is the relatively short educational path compared to other healthcare careers. Most surgical technologist programs can be completed in 12 to 24 months, depending on whether you choose to pursue a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. This allows you to enter the workforce quickly and begin earning an income without spending years in school. Additionally, surgical tech programs are generally more affordable than medical or nursing programs, making this a cost-effective entry point into the healthcare field.
2. Job Stability And Demand
Surgical techs are in high demand across the United States, and the need for qualified professionals is expected to continue growing in the coming years. As the healthcare industry expands and advances in medical technology lead to more surgeries, hospitals and surgical centers will require skilled surgical techs to assist in operating rooms. This demand provides job stability and reduces the risk of unemployment, even during economic downturns.
3. Opportunity To Work In A High-Impact Environment
Surgical techs work directly in operating rooms, contributing to life-saving procedures and helping patients through critical moments. This high-impact environment allows you to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives every day. For those who thrive in fast-paced, challenging settings, the operating room can be an exciting and rewarding place to work. Surgical techs play a key role in ensuring that surgeries are successful by preparing equipment, maintaining sterile conditions, and supporting the surgical team.
4. Hands-On Experience With Advanced Medical Technology
Working as a surgical tech provides the opportunity to handle cutting-edge medical technology and surgical instruments. Surgical techs are responsible for organizing and sterilizing the tools needed for surgery, setting up operating rooms, and assisting surgeons with equipment during procedures. This hands-on experience allows you to work with state-of-the-art technology and develop a deep understanding of medical devices and their use in complex surgeries.
5. Variety Of Work Settings
Surgical techs can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, specialized clinics, and even in the military. This flexibility allows you to choose a work environment that suits your preferences and career goals. Whether you prefer working in a large hospital with a high volume of surgeries or a smaller clinic with more specialized procedures, there are opportunities to find the right fit for your lifestyle.
6. Competitive Salary And Benefits
Surgical techs earn competitive salaries, especially considering the relatively short time it takes to complete the necessary training. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists in 2022 was around $50,000, with higher earning potential in certain regions or specialties. Many surgical tech positions also come with benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, making the profession financially rewarding.
7. Opportunities For Career Advancement
While surgical techs start their careers with a foundational skill set, there are opportunities for advancement in the field. Surgical techs can pursue specialized certifications, such as becoming a Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA), which allows them to take on more responsibilities during surgeries and assist directly with procedures. Additionally, some surgical techs choose to further their education and transition into roles such as surgical nurses, physician assistants, or other healthcare professionals.
8. Team-Oriented Work Environment
Surgical techs work as part of a close-knit team, collaborating with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other healthcare staff to ensure that surgeries run smoothly. This team-oriented work environment can be fulfilling for individuals who enjoy working alongside others in high-pressure situations. The camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes from working together to save lives can create strong professional bonds and job satisfaction.
9. Constant Learning And Skill Development
The healthcare field is constantly evolving, and surgical techs have the opportunity to continue learning throughout their careers. Advances in surgical techniques, medical technology, and patient care mean that surgical techs must stay up to date with new developments. This continuous learning environment keeps the job intellectually stimulating and allows techs to build on their skills over time, increasing their expertise and career prospects.
10. Personal Satisfaction
Many surgical techs find great personal satisfaction in knowing they are helping to improve or even save patients’ lives. The role allows you to be part of critical moments in patient care, and seeing positive outcomes from surgeries can be deeply fulfilling. For those who are passionate about healthcare and making a difference in others’ lives, being a surgical tech can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Cons Of Being A Surgical Tech
1. Physically Demanding Work
Being a surgical tech is physically demanding. You’ll spend long hours standing in the operating room, often during lengthy procedures. In addition to standing for extended periods, surgical techs are responsible for moving equipment, setting up operating rooms, and sometimes lifting patients. The physical demands of the job can lead to fatigue, back strain, and other issues, particularly over time.
2. High-Stress Environment
The operating room is a high-pressure environment where mistakes can have serious consequences. Surgical techs must maintain focus and composure during critical procedures, working efficiently and accurately under stressful conditions. This pressure can be overwhelming for some individuals, especially during emergency surgeries or when complications arise. The need to remain calm and make quick decisions in fast-paced situations requires mental resilience.
3. Exposure To Health Risks
Surgical techs are regularly exposed to health risks, including bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, and hazardous materials. Although hospitals and surgical centers follow strict safety protocols, there is still the potential for accidental exposure to bodily fluids, needles, and other medical waste. Surgical techs must adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards to protect themselves and others, but the nature of the job comes with inherent risks.
4. Irregular And Long Work Hours
Surgical techs often work irregular hours, including early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays. Surgeries may be scheduled outside of typical 9-to-5 hours, and techs are often required to be on call for emergencies. Additionally, surgeries can sometimes run longer than expected, requiring surgical techs to work beyond their scheduled shifts. This lack of predictability can make it challenging to maintain a consistent work-life balance.
5. Emotional Toll Of Witnessing Trauma
Surgical techs are frequently exposed to traumatic situations, including severe injuries, critical illnesses, and life-threatening emergencies. Witnessing trauma, blood, and intense surgical procedures can take an emotional toll, particularly for individuals who are sensitive to the more graphic aspects of surgery. The emotional strain of working in a setting where life and death decisions are made can lead to burnout or compassion fatigue.
6. Limited Direct Patient Interaction
While surgical techs play a crucial role in patient care, they typically have limited direct interaction with patients compared to nurses or physicians. Much of their work takes place in the background, preparing for surgeries and assisting during procedures, rather than providing bedside care. For individuals who are drawn to healthcare because of the desire to interact directly with patients, this limited interaction may be a drawback.
7. Routine And Repetitive Tasks
Although surgeries can vary in complexity, much of the work that surgical techs do is routine and repetitive. Setting up the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and assisting surgeons with the same procedures day after day can become monotonous over time. For individuals who prefer a high degree of variety in their work or who enjoy creative problem-solving, the routine nature of the job may become tedious.
8. Physical And Mental Fatigue
The combination of physical demands, long hours, and the need for constant mental focus can lead to fatigue for surgical techs. Working in the operating room requires both physical stamina and mental sharpness, and the pace of surgeries can be exhausting. Over time, the accumulation of physical and mental fatigue may impact a surgical tech’s overall well-being, making it important to practice self-care and find ways to manage stress.
9. Potential For Occupational Injuries
The physical nature of the job, combined with the need to handle sharp instruments and medical equipment, puts surgical techs at risk for occupational injuries. Accidental cuts, needle sticks, or injuries from heavy lifting are potential hazards in the operating room. Even with proper training and safety protocols, the risk of injury remains, and surgical techs must be vigilant to avoid accidents.
10. Certification And Continuing Education Requirements
To become a certified surgical tech, individuals must complete an accredited training program and pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. Additionally, surgical techs are often required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits and periodic recertification exams. While these requirements ensure that surgical techs stay current in their field, they can also be time-consuming and require a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical tech offers numerous benefits, including job stability, a relatively short educational path, and the opportunity to work in a high-impact, fast-paced environment. For those who are passionate about healthcare, enjoy working as part of a team, and thrive under pressure, the role of a surgical tech can be both rewarding and fulfilling. The opportunity to work with advanced medical technology, contribute to life-saving surgeries, and continuously develop new skills makes this career path appealing to many.
However, the profession also comes with challenges. Surgical techs face physically demanding work, exposure to health risks, and the emotional strain of working in high-stress environments. The long hours, irregular schedules, and potential for burnout may deter some individuals, especially those who prefer a more predictable or patient-facing role in healthcare.
Ultimately, whether a career as a surgical tech is the right choice depends on your personal goals, strengths, and tolerance for the demands of the job. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, you can determine if this career path aligns with your professional aspirations and lifestyle preferences. For those who are willing to embrace both the rewards and challenges, working as a surgical tech can provide a meaningful and impactful career in healthcare.