As healthcare continues to grow and evolve, so do the roles within it. One of the most dynamic and exciting careers in healthcare is that of a traveling certified surgical technologist. These professionals play an essential role in the operating room and are in high demand across the country.
What is a Traveling Certified Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist, also known as a scrub tech or operating room technician, is responsible for preparing the operating room for surgery. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other members of the surgical team to ensure that everything is set up correctly and ready for the procedure.
A traveling certified surgical technologist does all of this while working on a temporary basis at different healthcare facilities across the country. They may work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings that perform surgeries. Their expertise and flexibility make them an invaluable asset to any surgical team.
What Does a Traveling Certified Surgical Technologist Do?
The job duties of a traveling certified surgical technologist are similar to those of a regular surgical technologist, with the added challenge of working in a new environment every few weeks or months. Some of the tasks they may be responsible for include:
- Preparing the operating room for surgery
- Sterilizing instruments and equipment
- Assisting surgeons during procedures
- Maintaining a sterile field during surgery
- Anticipating the needs of the surgical team
- Managing supplies and inventory
Additionally, traveling certified surgical technologists must be able to adapt to new surroundings quickly and work effectively with new colleagues. They must be able to communicate clearly and work together to provide the best possible care for the patient.
What are the Benefits of Being a Traveling Certified Surgical Technologist?
There are many benefits to being a traveling certified surgical technologist. Some of the most significant advantages include:
- High demand for their skills
- Flexibility in choosing where and when to work
- Opportunity to gain experience in different healthcare settings
- Higher pay rates than regular surgical technologists
- Ability to travel and see different parts of the country
Traveling certified surgical technologists are also highly valued by healthcare facilities because they are able to step in and fill gaps in staffing. They are often called upon to work in hospitals or clinics that are short-staffed or experiencing a surge in demand for surgical services.
How Do You Become a Traveling Certified Surgical Technologist?
To become a traveling certified surgical technologist, you must first complete an accredited surgical technology program. These programs typically take one to two years to complete and may be offered by community colleges or vocational schools.
Once you have completed your education, you will need to become certified. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is recognized by healthcare facilities across the country.
After you have become certified, you can begin looking for travel contracts. Many healthcare staffing agencies specialize in placing traveling certified surgical technologists at healthcare facilities across the country.
Conclusion
Being a traveling certified surgical technologist is an exciting and rewarding career choice. These professionals play a vital role in the operating room and are in high demand across the country. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a traveling certified surgical technologist, be sure to complete an accredited surgical technology program and become certified by the NBSTSA. Then, start exploring travel contract opportunities and see where this exciting career can take you!
FAQ | Answers |
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What is a traveling certified surgical technologist? | A traveling certified surgical technologist is a professional who works on a temporary basis at different healthcare facilities across the country, preparing the operating room for surgery and assisting during procedures. |
What are the benefits of being a traveling certified surgical technologist? | Benefits include high demand for their skills, flexibility in choosing where and when to work, the opportunity to gain experience in different healthcare settings, higher pay rates than regular surgical technologists, and the ability to travel and see different parts of the country. |
How do you become a traveling certified surgical technologist? | You must complete an accredited surgical technology program and become certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) before seeking travel contract opportunities. |