A certified surgical tech (CST) is an integral part of the healthcare industry and the medical profession. He or she performs a wide range of duties and responsibilities in the operating room, including preparing and sterilizing equipment, assisting surgeons during procedures, monitoring vital signs of patients, and providing pre- and post-operative care.
A travel certified surgical tech, on the other hand, is a CST who travels to various locations to provide surgical support. He or she may work at hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, or other healthcare facilities that require the services of a CST on a temporary or short-term basis.
Job Responsibilities
The job responsibilities of a travel certified surgical tech are similar to those of a regular CST, but with some additional tasks due to the temporary nature of the job. Some of the typical duties include:
- Preparing and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment
- Assisting surgeons during procedures by passing instruments or holding retractors
- Monitoring patients’ vital signs and reporting any abnormalities to the surgical team
- Providing pre- and post-operative care to patients, such as dressing wounds and changing bandages
- Traveling to different locations as required by the job
- Adhering to safety and infection control policies and procedures
Overall, the job of a travel certified surgical tech requires a high level of technical and clinical skills, as well as excellent communication and team-working abilities.
Job Requirements
To become a travel certified surgical tech, you must first meet the basic requirements of a regular CST. These include:
- Completion of an accredited surgical tech program or equivalent education and training
- Passing the certification exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
- Obtaining state licensure or certification, if required by your state
- Having a minimum of one year of experience as a CST
- Having excellent technical and clinical skills, including knowledge of surgical instruments, procedures, and patient care
In addition to these requirements, a travel certified surgical tech must be willing to travel frequently and work in different settings with different teams of surgeons and healthcare professionals. He or she must also be flexible, adaptable, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
How to Become a Travel Certified Surgical Tech
If you are interested in becoming a travel certified surgical tech, here are the general steps to follow:
- Complete an accredited surgical tech program or equivalent education and training
- Pass the certification exam from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting
- Obtain state licensure or certification, if required by your state
- Gain at least one year of experience as a CST in a hospital or other healthcare facility
- Research travel staffing agencies that specialize in surgical tech placements
- Submit your application and resume to the travel staffing agency
- Interview with the agency and provide references from previous employers or colleagues
- Complete necessary paperwork and background checks
- Accept job offers and travel to different locations as required by the agency
Overall, becoming a travel certified surgical tech can be a rewarding and challenging career choice for those who enjoy working in healthcare settings and traveling to different locations.
FAQ
Question | Answer |
---|---|
What is a travel certified surgical tech? | A travel certified surgical tech is a CST who travels to various locations to provide surgical support on a temporary or short-term basis. |
What are the job responsibilities of a travel certified surgical tech? | The job responsibilities include preparing and sterilizing equipment, assisting surgeons during procedures, monitoring vital signs of patients, and providing pre- and post-operative care. |
What are the job requirements to become a travel certified surgical tech? | The requirements include completing an accredited surgical tech program, passing the certification exam, obtaining state licensure, having at least one year of experience as a CST, and having excellent technical and clinical skills. |
How do I become a travel certified surgical tech? | You must complete the basic requirements of a regular CST, gain experience in a healthcare setting, research travel staffing agencies, and submit your application and resume to the agency. |
Image Source: Bing.com