Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire Career Overview
As a Surgical Team Technician, you play a vital role within the surgical team, providing essential support to surgeons, nurses, and other medical personnel during operative procedures. Your responsibilities are focused on maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring that all surgical instruments and equipment are prepared for use.
Key aspects of your role include:
- Instrument Management: You are responsible for assembling, sterilizing, and maintaining surgical instruments, ensuring they are ready and available when needed.
- Assisting the Surgical Team: Your presence in the operating room is critical as you assist by passing instruments and supplies to the surgeon and assisting with various tasks as needed.
- Patient Safety: You contribute to the overall safety and well-being of patients through adherence to safety protocols, infection control measures, and effective communication with the surgical team.
- Preparation and Setup: Prior to surgeries, you prepare the operating room by organizing instruments, and ensuring all necessary items are available.
- Post-Operative Care: After procedures, you may help in managing the cleanup of the surgical area, furthering the commitment to maintaining a sterile environment for future procedures.
Your role is essential in enabling smooth surgical operations and fostering an environment where surgical teams can focus on patient outcomes. Your dedication to precision and attention to detail directly impacts the efficiency and success of surgical procedures, making you an integral part of healthcare teams in New Hampshire.
Surgical Team Technician Salary in New Hampshire
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire
To become a Surgical Team Technician, you will need to complete specific educational programs and training courses. The following are the primary degree programs that prepare you for this career:
Surgical Technology:
- This program typically results in an Associate's degree or a certificate.
- It includes coursework in surgical procedures, anatomy, medical terminology, and infection control.
- Clinical experience in operating rooms is essential, allowing you to practice essential skills in a real-world setting.
Surgical Nurse:
- If you pursue this path, you will need to obtain a nursing degree (either an Associate's degree in Nursing - ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing - BSN).
- Licensure as a registered nurse (RN) is mandatory after passing the NCLEX-RN examination.
- Additional training or certification in perioperative nursing may enhance your qualifications for working in surgical settings.
Perioperative and Operating Room:
- You may opt for specialized training or certificate programs focused on perioperative care.
- This training often includes both theoretical and hands-on components in operating room protocols and patient care specific to surgical environments.
Surgical Assistant:
- Training programs for surgical assistants often result in either a certificate or an Associate's degree.
- The curriculum may include advanced surgical practices, assisting surgeons in operations, and pre- and post-operative patient care.
- Certification through organizations like the National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA) may also be pursued, requiring completion of an accredited program and passing an exam.
Completing one of these educational pathways will provide you with the necessary foundation to work as a Surgical Team Technician.
Best Schools to become a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire 2024
Meridian Institute of Surgical Assisting
Madisonville Community College
Ivy Tech Community College
Southern Technical College
Brookline College-Tempe
Southeastern College-West Palm Beach
- Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons.
- May, in accordance with state laws, help surgeons to make incisions and close surgical sites, manipulate or remove tissues, implant surgical devices or drains, suction the surgical site, place catheters, clamp or cauterize vessels or tissue, and apply dressings to surgical site.
Surgical Team Technician Required Skills and Competencies in New Hampshire
Attention to Detail: You must possess a high level of accuracy to follow sterile procedures and ensure the proper setup of surgical instruments and equipment.
Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with surgical instruments, tools, and technology is essential. You should be able to operate equipment used during surgeries and be prepared to troubleshoot any issues that arise.
Communication Skills: Effective communication with surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team is critical. You need to convey information clearly and follow instructions accurately.
Teamwork: You will work closely with a diverse surgical team. Collaborating seamlessly with others while respecting the roles and responsibilities of each team member is vital for successful patient outcomes.
Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities are necessary to manage the surgical environment, including preparing instruments, tracking supplies, and adhering to schedules.
Problem-Solving: You should be equipped to think quickly and effectively in high-pressure situations, addressing any complications or emergencies that may occur during surgery.
Knowledge of Sterilization Techniques: Understanding the principles of sterilization and infection control is important to maintain a safe and clean surgical environment.
Physical Stamina: The role often requires long hours on your feet and the ability to handle a physically demanding work environment, including lifting equipment and assisting during surgeries.
Discretion and Confidentiality: You must maintain patient confidentiality and exhibit professionalism at all times, in accordance with healthcare regulations and ethical standards.
Adaptability: Being open to change and able to adjust to new technologies, procedures, and protocols is important in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.
Job Duties for Surgical Team Technicians
Cover patients with surgical drapes to create and maintain a sterile operative field.
Monitor and maintain aseptic technique throughout procedures.
Verify the identity of patient or operative site.
Medical software
- MEDITECH software
- Surgery workflow communication software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- Changing what is done based on other people's actions
- Looking for ways to help people
Job Market and Opportunities for Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire
The job market for Surgical Team Technicians in New Hampshire is evolving, with a notable demand for qualified professionals in the healthcare sector. You can expect several key trends and opportunities:
Increased Demand: As the population ages and the need for surgical procedures grows, healthcare facilities are increasingly seeking skilled Surgical Team Technicians. Hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialty clinics are actively hiring to ensure they meet surgical demands.
Health System Expansion: Major hospitals and healthcare networks in New Hampshire are expanding services, leading to an increased need for surgical staff. This includes both large institutions and smaller facilities that are enhancing their surgical capabilities.
Job Growth Potential: The industry is poised for significant growth. Projections indicate that the need for Surgical Team Technicians is expected to rise, driven by advancements in surgical technologies and an increase in minimally invasive procedures.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Manchester: As the largest city in New Hampshire, Manchester has a high concentration of medical facilities, including the Elliot Hospital and Catholic Medical Center, providing ample job opportunities.
- Concord: The state capital features several healthcare providers, including Concord Hospital, which contributes to the demand for surgical staff.
- Nashua: This growing city hosts multiple surgical centers and hospitals, making it a hotspot for surgical team positions.
- Lakes Region: With a blend of recreational and healthcare-focused activities, facilities in this area have a growing need for surgical technicians.
Diverse Settings: You may find opportunities across various settings, including hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics, allowing you to choose an environment that fits your career goals.
By understanding these market dynamics and focusing on the hotspots, you can strategically position yourself for a fulfilling career as a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire.
Top Related Careers to Surgical Team Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire
National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
This organization offers certification for Surgical Technologists and provides resources for exam preparation and professional development.
NCCT WebsiteAssociation of Surgical Technologists (AST)
AST is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the practice of surgical technology. Their website provides valuable resources, including industry standards, webinars, and networking opportunities.
AST WebsiteNational Surgical Technology Association (NSTA)
This association provides support for surgical technologists through advocacy, education, and resources. Their site includes job listings, a directory of accredited programs, and continuing education options.
NSTA WebsiteBureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Surgical Technologists
The BLS offers detailed information about the occupation, including job outlook, salary statistics, and educational requirements specific to New Hampshire.
BLS Surgical Technologists OverviewNew Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
The DHHS site provides information on health professions, including licensing requirements and educational resources for those looking to enter the surgical field in New Hampshire.
DHHS WebsiteAccrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES)
ABHES is a nationally recognized accrediting agency providing accreditation for surgical tech programs. Their site offers guidance on quality educational programs.
ABHES WebsiteCampuses Offering Surgical Technology Programs in New Hampshire
Investigate local institutions such as:NHTI - Concord's Community College
NHTI Surgical Technology ProgramManchester Community College
MCC Surgical Technology Program
Books and Textbooks
Consider the following texts for further information:- "Surgical Technology for the Surgical Technologist" by Association of Surgical Technologists
- "Fundamentals of Surgical Technology" by Jeffrey D. L. Anderson
Webinars and Online Courses
Many organizations, including AST and NSTA, offer webinars and online courses that can enhance your skills and knowledge in surgical technology.
Seeking and utilizing these resources will support your professional development as a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire
What is a Surgical Team Technician?
A Surgical Team Technician, also known as a surgical technologist, assists in surgical operations by preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, and ensuring a sterile environment. You will work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.What are the educational requirements for becoming a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire?
Typically, you need a postsecondary certificate or an associate degree in surgical technology. Programs usually include coursework in anatomy, medical terminology, and surgical practices, as well as hands-on training.Is certification required to work as a Surgical Team Technician?
While certification is not always mandatory, it is highly recommended. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which can enhance your job prospects and credibility.What skills are essential for a Surgical Team Technician?
Important skills include:- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure
- Technical skills related to surgical instruments and procedures
- Teamwork and collaboration abilities
What is the job outlook for Surgical Team Technicians in New Hampshire?
The job outlook for surgical technologists is generally positive, with expected growth due to advances in medical technology and an increasing number of procedures performed. As of recent data, there is a rising demand for surgical team members in hospitals and surgical centers.Where do Surgical Team Technicians typically work?
You will primarily work in hospitals, but opportunities also exist in surgical clinics, outpatient care centers, and specialty facilities focused on surgical interventions.What are the typical work hours for a Surgical Team Technician?
Work hours can vary. Many surgical team technicians work full-time, which may include nights, weekends, and holidays, as surgeries can be scheduled at any time.What is the average salary for a Surgical Team Technician in New Hampshire?
Salaries can vary based on experience, education, and specific healthcare facilities. As of the latest data, the average salary for surgical technologists in New Hampshire is between $47,000 and $63,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings in specialized surgical fields.Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
Yes, you can pursue further certifications, specialize in surgical procedures, or move into roles such as surgical first assistant, clinical supervisor, or education roles in surgical technology programs.What are the physical demands of being a Surgical Team Technician?
The job can be physically demanding, requiring you to stand for long periods, lift and move patients, and handle surgical instruments safely and effectively.How can I find job openings for Surgical Team Technicians in New Hampshire?
Job openings can be found on hospital career websites, job boards, and professional organizations for surgical technologists. Networking through local healthcare job fairs and connections in the medical community can also be beneficial.