Medical Surgical Technology Career Overview - Southwestern Illinois College

JOB DESCRIPTION

Southwestern Illinois College’s Medical Surgical Technology program prepares students to gain theoretical knowledge and develop skills necessary to become a Certified Medical Surgical Technologist. Medical Surgical Technologist prepares surgical supplies and equipment, maintain aseptic technique and sterile conditions, and assist the surgical team in peri-operative settings.

Medical Surgical Technologist:

  • Communicate professionally, empathically, and in a culturally-competent manner to enhance the healthcare setting via oral, written, and electronic means.
  • Demonstrate critical thinking during peri-operative and emergency processes and procedures.
  • Administer surgical technology care in an ethical, legal, safe and effective manner in a variety of healthcare settings.
  • Demonstrate responsibility for professional self-development and lifelong learning within the healthcare profession.

Areas of work

  • General surgery
  • Orthopedics surgery
  • Cardiothoracic surgery
  • Colon and rectal surgery
  • Gynecology and obstetrics surgery
  • Gynecologic oncology
  • Neurologic surgery
  • Ophthalmic surgery
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology
  • Plastic surgery
  • Pediatric surgery
  • Podiatry surgery
  • Transplant recovery

CAREER RESOURCES

The Association of Surgical Technologist web site provides surgical technologist resources for students.

The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook provides additional information.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST WORK IN A VARIETY OF SETTINGS, INCLUDING:

  • Hospitals
  • Outpatient surgery centers
  • Privately-owned surgical departments/doctor’s office
  • Organ procurement

SALARY

AVERAGE STARTING SALARY

The median annual full-time starting salary for a Certified Surgical Technologist is $23.32 per hour or $48,510 per year. (Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook May of 2021).