A career in the medical field can be incredibly rewarding, and one way to get started is by becoming a surgical technologist. Sentara Surgical Tech Program is a great option for those looking to enter this field, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a surgical technologist. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Sentara Surgical Tech Program and what it has to offer.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist, also known as a surgical technician or operating room technician, is a medical professional who plays a crucial role in the surgical team. Their primary responsibility is to prepare the operating room and equipment for surgery, as well as to assist the surgeon and other medical professionals during the procedure.
Why Choose a Career as a Surgical Technologist?
There are many reasons why a career as a surgical technologist can be a great choice. Here are just a few:
- Job security: The demand for surgical technologists is high, and this demand is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
- Variety: As a surgical technologist, you'll have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and surgical centers.
- Sense of satisfaction: Knowing that you're making a difference in people's lives can be incredibly rewarding.
- Opportunities for advancement: With experience and additional education, you can move into leadership positions or specialize in a particular area of surgical technology.
About the Sentara Surgical Tech Program
The Sentara Surgical Tech Program is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a career as a surgical technologist. Here are some key features of the program:
- Program length: The program is approximately 12 months long, making it a great option for those who want to quickly enter the workforce.
- Curriculum: The program includes both classroom and clinical training, covering topics such as surgical procedures, patient care, and operating room management.
- Clinical experience: Students gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting, working alongside experienced surgical technologists and other medical professionals.
- Certification preparation: The program prepares students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is the gold standard for certification in this field.
What to Expect from the Sentara Surgical Tech Program
When you enroll in the Sentara Surgical Tech Program, here's what you can expect:
- Challenging curriculum: The program is designed to be challenging, but also rewarding. You'll learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a surgical technologist.
- Supportive instructors: The instructors are experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping you succeed.
- State-of-the-art facilities: The program is housed in state-of-the-art facilities, providing you with the opportunity to learn in a real-world setting.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the Sentara Surgical Tech Program, you'll need to meet the following admission requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Background check: You'll need to undergo a background check.
- Health requirements: You'll need to meet certain health requirements, including immunizations and a physical exam.
Program Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of the Sentara Surgical Tech Program varies depending on a number of factors, including your location and the specific program you choose. However, here are some estimated costs:
- Tuition: The tuition for the program is approximately $15,000.
- Fees: You'll also need to pay fees for things like uniforms, equipment, and certification exams.
- Financial aid: Sentara offers financial aid to qualified students, including scholarships and grants.
Career Opportunities
As a graduate of the Sentara Surgical Tech Program, you'll have a wide range of career opportunities available to you. Here are just a few:
- Surgical technologist: You can work as a surgical technologist in a hospital, clinic, or surgical center.
- Operating room technician: You can work as an operating room technician, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during procedures.
- Surgical assistant: You can work as a surgical assistant, helping to prepare patients for surgery and assisting during procedures.
Why Choose Sentara?
So why should you choose Sentara for your surgical tech education? Here are just a few reasons:
- Experience: Sentara has been providing quality healthcare education for over 100 years.
- Reputation: Sentara has a reputation for excellence in healthcare education.
- Support: Sentara offers a supportive learning environment, with experienced instructors and state-of-the-art facilities.
Gallery of Surgical Technologist Images
FAQs
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist varies depending on location and experience, but the median salary is around $50,000 per year.
How long does the Sentara Surgical Tech Program take to complete?
+The Sentara Surgical Tech Program is approximately 12 months long.
What kind of certification can I get after completing the program?
+After completing the program, you'll be eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.
In conclusion, the Sentara Surgical Tech Program is a great option for those looking to enter the field of surgical technology. With its comprehensive curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and supportive instructors, you'll be well-prepared for a rewarding career as a surgical technologist.