Kentucky is home to a number of excellent surgical tech schools that can provide students with the training and education they need to succeed in this rewarding career. Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, play a vital role in the healthcare system, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a surgical technologist, here are some of the top programs in Kentucky to consider.
What is a Surgical Technologist?
A surgical technologist is a medical professional who assists surgeons and other healthcare professionals during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibilities include preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, and maintaining a safe and efficient environment for the surgical team. Surgical technologists may also be responsible for preparing patients for surgery, positioning them on the operating table, and maintaining their safety and comfort during the procedure.
Responsibilities of a Surgical Technologist
Some of the key responsibilities of a surgical technologist include:
- Preparing the operating room and equipment for surgery
- Maintaining a safe and efficient environment for the surgical team
- Preparing patients for surgery
- Positioning patients on the operating table
- Maintaining patient safety and comfort during the procedure
- Handing instruments to the surgeon during the procedure
- Maintaining accurate records of the surgical procedure
Top Surgical Tech Schools in Kentucky
Here are some of the top surgical tech schools in Kentucky:
1. Galen College of Nursing
Galen College of Nursing is a private college with a campus in Louisville, Kentucky. The college offers an Associate of Science in Surgical Technology degree program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
2. Gateway Community and Technical College
Gateway Community and Technical College is a public college with a campus in Florence, Kentucky. The college offers a Surgical Technology program that is accredited by CAAHEP. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
3. Henderson Community College
Henderson Community College is a public college with a campus in Henderson, Kentucky. The college offers a Surgical Technology program that is accredited by CAAHEP. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
4. Hopkinsville Community College
Hopkinsville Community College is a public college with a campus in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. The college offers a Surgical Technology program that is accredited by CAAHEP. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
5. Maysville Community and Technical College
Maysville Community and Technical College is a public college with a campus in Maysville, Kentucky. The college offers a Surgical Technology program that is accredited by CAAHEP. The program includes classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
How to Become a Surgical Technologist in Kentucky
To become a surgical technologist in Kentucky, you'll need to complete a formal training program in surgical technology and obtain certification. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements
You'll need to meet the basic requirements for admission to a surgical technology program in Kentucky. These requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA of 2.0, and completion of prerequisite courses in math and science.
Step 2: Complete a Surgical Technology Program
You'll need to complete a surgical technology program that is accredited by CAAHEP. These programs are offered at community colleges, technical colleges, and universities in Kentucky. The program will include classroom instruction, laboratory training, and clinical experience in a hospital or surgical setting.
Step 3: Obtain Certification
After completing your training program, you'll need to obtain certification as a surgical technologist. The most common certification is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To become certified, you'll need to pass the CST exam and meet the NBSTSA's eligibility requirements.
Step 4: Maintain Certification
To maintain your certification as a surgical technologist, you'll need to complete continuing education requirements and adhere to the NBSTSA's code of ethics.
Salary and Job Outlook for Surgical Technologists in Kentucky
The salary and job outlook for surgical technologists in Kentucky are promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists in Kentucky was $45,610 in May 2020. The job outlook for surgical technologists in Kentucky is also positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 4% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.
Salary Range for Surgical Technologists in Kentucky
The salary range for surgical technologists in Kentucky varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. Here are some average salary ranges for surgical technologists in Kentucky:
- Entry-level: $35,000 - $45,000 per year
- Experienced: $50,000 - $65,000 per year
- Senior-level: $70,000 - $85,000 per year
Conclusion
If you're interested in pursuing a career as a surgical technologist, Kentucky is a great place to start. With a number of excellent surgical tech schools and a promising job outlook, you can set yourself up for success in this rewarding career. Remember to research your options carefully, meet the basic requirements, complete a formal training program, obtain certification, and maintain certification to become a certified surgical technologist in Kentucky.
Gallery of Surgical Technologist Schools in Kentucky
FAQs
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in Kentucky?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in Kentucky is around $45,610 per year.
What are the basic requirements for admission to a surgical technology program in Kentucky?
+The basic requirements for admission to a surgical technology program in Kentucky typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA of 2.0, and completion of prerequisite courses in math and science.
What is the job outlook for surgical technologists in Kentucky?
+The job outlook for surgical technologists in Kentucky is positive, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 4% growth in employment opportunities from 2020 to 2030.