How to Become a Surgical Technologist in Florida
Introduction
Are you considering a career as a surgical technologist in Florida? Surgical technologists play a vital role in the operating room, assisting surgeons by preparing and managing surgical instruments and ensuring a sterile environment. This guide outlines the steps needed to embark on this fulfilling career path, including educational requirements, certification processes, and job prospects within the state.
Educational Requirements
Enroll in an Accredited Program
To become a surgical technologist, you must first graduate from an accredited surgical technology education program. In Florida, several colleges offer accredited programs, including:
- Miami Dade College: Offers an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Surgical Technology[1].
- College of Central Florida: Surgical Services Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP)[2].
Program Details
The program lengths can vary. For instance, Gulf Coast State College requires 17 months of continuous, full-time study[3]. Tallahassee State College offers a 64 credit hour program[4].
Certification Requirements
Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)
Upon graduation, you must sit for the certification exam offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). Passing this exam is often tied to graduation criteria at Florida institutions[5].
Exam Preparation
Many schools in Florida note that students will be eligible to take the NBSTSA National Certifying Exam upon completing their programs[3].
Licensing and Work Experience
State Licensing
Currently, specific licensing requirements for surgical technologists in Florida are not well-documented on state (.gov or .edu) websites. It is recommended to contact the Florida Department of Health for the current licensing requirements.
Work Experience
Most programs integrate clinical practicums where students complete a minimum number of surgical cases to gain hands-on experience. Eastern Florida State College, for example, requires students to complete at least 120 surgical cases[5].
Employment and Salary Outlook
Job Opportunities
Surgical technologists in Florida work in various settings, including hospitals, outpatient care centers, and physician offices. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida’s metropolitan areas like Miami and Jacksonville often offer higher wages[6].
Salary Expectations
As of May 2023, the median annual wage for surgical technologists in Florida is approximately $52,190, with a range from $40,000 to $65,000[6].
Explore our salary insights for surgical technicians in Florida or in New York.
Job Growth
The employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow by 5 percent from 2022 to 2032, indicating strong job prospects[7].
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Professional Associations
The Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) provides continuing education and testing information. Membership costs for Florida-specific associations are not documented on state resources, so referring to the AST for professional development is advisable[2].
Conclusion
Becoming a surgical technologist in Florida involves dedication to education and certification. Graduating from an accredited program and obtaining CST certification opens up various career opportunities in this dynamic field. For further information on specific program costs or state-specific requirements, contacting local colleges or the Florida Department of Health is advised.
Embark on your path as a surgical technologist today, and join a rewarding profession that plays a critical role in patient care and surgical outcomes.
Sources
[1] Miami Dade College: Surgical Technology Accreditation. www.mdc.edu/surgicaltechnology/accreditation.aspx
[2] College of Central Florida: Health Sciences/Surgical Technology. www.cf.edu/academics/areas-of-study/health-sciences/surgical-technology/
[3] Gulf Coast State College: Surgical Technology Information Packet. www.gulfcoast.edu/academics/academic-division/health-sciences/surgical-technology/documents/surg_tech_info_packet.pdf
[4] Tallahassee State College Catalog: Surgical Technology Program. catalog.tsc.fl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=22&poid=2475&returnto=3119
[5] Eastern Florida State College: Surgical Technology Program. www.easternflorida.edu/academics/health-nursing/surgical-technology/index.php
[6] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. www.bls.gov
[7] BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. www.bls.gov