surgical technologist Archives - Surgical Tech Career

How to Become a Surgical Tech Step by Step

So you want to become a surgical tech. Maybe you’ve been researching it for a while, maybe somebody told you about it, or maybe you just know you want to work in surgery and this feels like the right path. Whatever brought you here — welcome. Let me walk you through exactly what it takes to make this happen.

I went through the Navy’s surgical tech program so my path was a little different than most. But over 20 years in this field I’ve seen people come in from all kinds of backgrounds and I know what works and what doesn’t. So let me give you the real breakdown.

Step 1: Choose the Right School

This is where a lot of people make their first mistake — and it’s an expensive one. There are private vocational schools out there that will charge you $40,000 to $50,000 for a surgical tech program. And honestly? You don’t need to spend that kind of money.

My recommendation is community college every single time.

A community college surgical tech program is going to cost you somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000 depending on where you live. You’ll get the same education, the same clinical training, and the same certification eligibility as someone who paid five times more at a private school.

Yes, community college programs can be competitive and you might have to wait to get in. But here’s what you do while you’re waiting — take your prerequisite courses. Knock out anatomy, medical terminology, biology. Some of those courses you can even CLEP out of, meaning you take a test and get college credit without sitting through the whole class. That saves you time and money.

The goal is to come out of school with as little debt as possible so you’re not starting your career already in a financial hole.

Step 2: Complete Your Surgical Tech Program

Once you’re in the program you’re going to spend time in the classroom and in the clinical setting. Here’s what you’ll be learning:

Surgical anatomy — you need to know the human body inside and out
Medical terminology — the language of medicine
Sterile technique and infection control — this is the foundation of everything you do in the OR
Surgical instrumentation — knowing every instrument by name and function
Pharmacology basics — understanding the medications used in surgery
Surgical procedures — how different types of surgeries are performed

It’s a lot of information and the learning curve is steep. But if you’re genuinely interested in surgery and medicine, it’s also fascinating. Just be prepared to study hard.

Step 3: Complete Your Clinicals

Your clinical rotation is where everything you learned in the classroom becomes real. You’ll be placed at a hospital or surgery center and you’ll start scrubbing in on actual cases under supervision.

This is the part that either confirms you love this field or makes you realize it’s not for you. And that’s okay either way — better to find out during clinicals than after you’ve been working for a year.

During your clinicals focus on learning as much as possible. Ask questions. Be eager. Show up ready to work. The surgical techs and nurses you work with during this time will shape your early understanding of the OR and some of them may even help you get your first job.

Step 4: Get Certified

After you graduate from your program you’ll be eligible to sit for the certification exam. There are two main certifications for surgical techs:

CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) — through the NBSTSA, this is the most widely recognized certification
Tech in Surgery Certified (TS-C) — through the NCCT, this is also accepted at many facilities

You don’t technically have to be certified to work as a surgical tech at every facility — some places will hire you right out of school and let you work while you study for the exam. But getting certified opens more doors and in 2026 more and more facilities are requiring it.

Study hard for this exam. Use practice tests, study guides, and if you can find a study group — join it. The exam covers everything from your program so give yourself enough time to review it all.

Step 5: Get Your First Job

Once you’re certified — or even while you’re studying for the exam — start applying for jobs. Here’s where to look:

Hospital job boards — go directly to the websites of hospitals in your area
Indeed and LinkedIn — good for seeing what’s available in your market
Staffing agencies — some agencies specialize in placing new grad surgical techs
Your clinical site — if you did a good job during your clinicals, ask about openings there

When you’re a new grad, don’t be too picky about your first position. The goal is to get in the OR and start building your experience. You can be more selective later. Try to get into a hospital setting if you can because hospitals typically offer more variety in cases and will help you build a broader skill set faster.

Step 6: Build Your Experience and Plan Your Next Move

Once you’re working, focus on learning. Learn as many service lines as you can — general surgery, ortho, OB, neuro, vascular. The more versatile you are the more valuable you become and the more options you have.

After one to two years of hospital experience you’ll be eligible to start looking at travel contracts if that’s the direction you want to go. And that’s where the real money starts.

But even from day one, be thinking about your bigger plan. What do you want your surgical tech career to fund? What are you building toward? The techs who thrive long term are the ones who treat this career as a strategic tool, not just a job.

You’ve got everything you need to get started. Now go do it.

Want more guidance on your surgical tech journey? Visit surgicaltechcareer.com/blog or watch the full playlist on YouTube: Keioffa’s Surgical Tech Playlist

Top 5 Skills Every Surgical Tech Needs to Stand Out

When most people picture the operating room, they think about the surgeon making the incision. But behind every smooth surgery is a surgical technologist—quietly keeping things sterile, organized, and efficient.

The truth? Not all surgical techs are created equal. What separates the ones surgeons fight to have on their team from those who barely get noticed? Skills. And not just technical ones.

Here are the top 5 skills every surgical tech needs to stand out in the OR—and the ones nobody tells you about in school.

1. Mastering Sterile Technique

At the core of our job is one responsibility: protecting the patient from infection. That means strict adherence to sterile technique every single day.

Setting up the sterile field.
Recognizing contamination immediately.
Correcting mistakes without hesitation.

This isn’t just textbook knowledge—it’s muscle memory. And it’s the first thing your team will judge you on.

What they don’t tell you: The surgeon might not notice when you do everything right, but they’ll always notice the one time you break sterility.

2. Anticipation and Quick Thinking

Passing instruments is more than just waiting to be asked. Great surgical techs anticipate needs before the words are even spoken.

Knowing the steps of each procedure.
Understanding each surgeon’s quirks and preferences.
Thinking one step ahead—always.

Example: During a gallbladder removal, you don’t wait for the surgeon to ask for a clip applier. You’re already handing it before they look up.

What they don’t tell you: Anticipation builds trust. When surgeons know you “get” their rhythm, they’ll request you on their cases.

3. Staying Calm Under Pressure

The OR can feel like controlled chaos. Alarms beeping, multiple people talking, an unexpected complication—your job is to keep composure while keeping the sterile field steady.

Focus on your role.
Block out the noise.
Keep your hands ready and steady no matter what.

What they don’t tell you: Sometimes the loudest person in the room is the most nervous. Your calm energy can anchor the entire team.

4. Teamwork and Communication

The best surgical techs aren’t just skilled with instruments—they’re skilled with people. You’ll work alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and fellow techs.

Speak clearly and respectfully.
Ask questions when needed.
Support your team without ego.

What they don’t tell you: The OR can be political. Your ability to get along with people often matters just as much as your technical ability.

5. Physical and Mental Endurance

Long cases. Heavy trays. Standing for hours without a break. This career is physically demanding, and your mindset plays a huge role in your endurance.

Invest in quality shoes.
Stay hydrated.
Build habits that support both body and mind.

What they don’t tell you: Burnout is real. Self-care outside the OR isn’t optional—it’s how you keep showing up as your best self.

Final Thoughts: Skills That Take You from Good to Great

Anyone can graduate from surgical tech school. But the ones who stand out are the ones who master these five skills and bring consistency, anticipation, and confidence into the OR.

If you’re just starting out, focus on one skill at a time and commit to growth. Over time, you’ll not only stand out—you’ll become the tech everyone wants on their team.

✨ Call to Action

Ready to Learn More About Surgical Tech Life?

If you’re serious about standing out in the OR, don’t stop here.

👉 Read more articles on SurgicalTechCareer.com for insider guides, career advice, and real-life stories from the OR.

👉 Subscribe to my Surgical Tech Career YouTube Channel for videos that show you exactly what this career is like—and how to thrive in it.

Your future in the OR starts with the skills you sharpen today. 🚀

Day in the Life of a Surgical Tech: What They Don’t Tell You

When people think of the operating room, the spotlight usually shines on the surgeon. Maybe the anesthesiologist or the circulating nurse. Rarely does anyone mention the surgical technologist—the one who sets the tone before the first incision is ever made. As a certified surgical tech (CST), I can tell you: our days are long, fast-paced, and full of responsibilities that most outsiders never see.

If you’re considering this career, or just wondering what really happens behind those double OR doors, let me take you through a real day in the life of a surgical tech—and share the parts nobody talks about.

Early Mornings and Pre-Op Prep

Our day usually starts before the sun comes up. If your shift is scheduled for 7 a.m., that doesn’t mean strolling into work at 6:55. Most surgical techs arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. Why? Because the first case of the day sets the tone, and it’s our job to make sure the room is ready.

That means:

Checking the surgeon’s preference card.
Pulling every instrument, suture, and piece of equipment needed.
Making sure implants or special tools are available (and troubleshooting if they’re not).

This is where surgical techs become detectives. If an item is missing, you don’t have the luxury of waiting until the patient is wheeled in. You have to find it, borrow it from another department, or improvise a solution. It’s high responsibility from the moment you clock in.

What they don’t tell you: You’ll often know more about where supplies are than anyone else in the room. When the surgeon barks, “I need this NOW,” you better already have it—or know exactly how to get it.

Setting the Sterile Field

One of our most sacred duties is maintaining sterility. Once we’ve gathered supplies, we begin the process of opening sterile packs and creating what’s called the sterile field—the sacred zone where instruments and supplies remain uncontaminated.

This step is repetitive but requires sharp focus. One slip (like brushing against a non-sterile surface) can contaminate an entire table of instruments, costing thousands of dollars and delaying surgery.

What they don’t tell you: Even seasoned techs occasionally break sterility. The key is owning it immediately, correcting the mistake, and protecting the patient above your pride.

The Adrenaline of the First Cut

Once the patient is prepped, draped, and the surgeon is scrubbed in, the energy in the OR shifts. It’s game time. As the tech, you are the surgeon’s right hand—literally. You pass instruments, anticipate needs, and keep the surgical field organized while everything around you may feel chaotic.

A good surgical tech doesn’t wait to be asked. If you know the surgeon likes a certain clamp for a gallbladder case, you have it in hand before they finish the request. That level of anticipation builds trust and respect.

What they don’t tell you: The OR is not a quiet, calm environment like on TV. It’s a mix of beeping machines, music, conversations, and sometimes tense personalities. You have to stay calm and focused no matter what’s happening around you.

Pressure, Personalities, and Professionalism

The hardest part of this job isn’t always the technical skill—it’s the personalities. Surgeons can be demanding, nurses can be territorial, and tension rises fast when a patient’s life is on the line.

As a tech, you’re in the middle. You’re expected to perform flawlessly under pressure, while also staying professional if someone snaps at you.

What they don’t tell you: Sometimes the OR feels like high school with scalpel blades. There’s gossip, favoritism, and politics. But there’s also teamwork, mentorship, and incredible respect once you prove yourself.

Lunch? What Lunch?

Depending on the day, you may get a proper break… or you may be eating crackers in a storage room between cases. Surgical schedules are unpredictable. A routine appendectomy can turn into a long, complicated case.

What they don’t tell you: Your bladder and stomach will be tested in this career. Learning to hydrate, snack smart, and manage your energy is just as important as knowing how to pass a scalpel.

The Emotional Side of the OR

Not every case is routine. Sometimes you’re part of life-saving trauma surgery where adrenaline pushes you through. Other days, you’re present in heartbreaking losses—when the patient doesn’t make it.

You don’t have the luxury of breaking down in the moment. You stay focused, finish the case, and hold it together. Later, in the locker room or in your car, you process the emotions.

What they don’t tell you: Being a surgical tech takes a toll mentally and emotionally. Self-care is not optional; it’s necessary to sustain this career.

Clocking Out—but Still on Your Feet

At the end of the day, after the last case, we break down the sterile field, clean instruments, and reset the room for tomorrow. Only then do we head home—often exhausted but proud.

What they don’t tell you: This career is physically demanding. You’ll be on your feet for 8–12 hours, sometimes longer. Good shoes aren’t just helpful; they’re survival gear.

Why I Love It Anyway

With all the pressure, politics, and exhaustion, you might wonder: why do it? For me, it’s simple—this job matters. Every case I scrub in on, I’m part of a team that changes or saves a life.

You’ll never get applause or headlines, but you’ll know. You’ll remember the moments where your quick hands stopped bleeding, or your prep ensured a smooth case. That’s the kind of impact that sticks with you.

What they don’t tell you: Being a surgical tech teaches you resilience, teamwork, and confidence that spills over into every area of life.

Final Thoughts: Is This Career for You?

If you’re thinking about becoming a surgical tech, know this: it’s not glamorous, it’s not easy, and it’s not for everyone. But if you thrive under pressure, value precision, and want to play a vital role in healthcare without years of medical school, it can be one of the most rewarding careers you’ll ever choose.

And if you’re already in the field? Take a moment to appreciate yourself. You may not always hear it, but your work is essential, respected, and life-changing.

Ready to Learn More About Surgical Tech Life?

If this peek behind the OR doors inspired you, there’s so much more waiting for you.

👉 Read more articles on SurgicalTechCareer.com for in-depth guides, tips, and career advice to help you thrive in the OR.

👉 Subscribe to my Surgical Tech Career YouTube Channel for behind-the-scenes videos, tutorials, and real talk about what it’s really like to be a surgical tech.

Don’t just dream about a career in the OR—step into it with confidence, knowledge, and support.

Succeed as a surgical technologist with self-care

Being a surgical technologist can be overwhelming, but there is one thing you can do to give yourself an advantage… self-care! In this post, I’ll explain how to Succeed as a surgical technologist with self-care.

Hey, Ya’ll, My name is Keioffa, and I’m here to talk to you about the importance of self-care in surgical technology. We all know that being a surgical technologist requires focus, dedication, and hard work, but have you ever considered how self-care plays a role in your success too? Buckle up because we’re about to go on a journey to learn how to Succeed as a surgical technologist with self-care.

As a medical professional, getting enough sleep each night is absolutely essential to ensure top-notch performance.

Sleep-deprived can lead to many cognitive and physical impairments, including decreased reaction time, impaired decision-making skills, and decreased attention span. However, getting enough sleep can be challenging for healthcare providers who work long, irregular hours and often experience high-stress levels. To ensure you get the rest you need, try establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and stimulants before bed. Remember, wit and humor can go a long way in making bedtime routines enjoyable and effective! So go ahead, indulge in a good book, and catch some quality Zzzs– your sanity will thank you for it.

Eating healthy foods isn’t just a trend or something you do to impress your friends. It’s crucial to care for your body and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The key is to pick foods that provide ample energy to tackle the day feeling your best. Of course, planning meals when you’re crunched for time or have a limited budget can be tricky. Fear not, though. Plenty of ways to plan nutritious meals without breaking the bank or sacrificing hours of your precious time. For starters, aim to meal prep when you do have free time.

You can prepare batches of foods like roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, and quinoa salads in advance and then mix and match those foods throughout the week. Not only will you have a variety of meals to keep things interesting, but you’ll also ensure that you have nutrient-dense foods on hand whenever hunger strikes. So go ahead, and dive into the world of healthy food choices. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Surgical techs are the unsung heroes of the operating room. They are essential in helping surgeons perform delicate procedures with precision and ease. However, with long hours spent standing on their feet and performing repetitive tasks, surgical techs can easily succumb to physical strain and fatigue.

That’s why exercise is especially beneficial for these healthcare professionals.

Not only does it help improve cardiovascular health and lower stress levels, but it also helps prevent injuries from creeping up in the future. Some fun and effective exercises include yoga, Pilates, and dance classes. The key is finding something that sparks joy and feels enjoyable. And if finding time is an issue, try fitting in short bursts of activity throughout the day, whether taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing a quick stretching routine during a break. Remember, a little physical activity goes a long way in improving overall well-being.

A positive mindset can benefit greatly, from increased motivation and productivity to better physical and mental health.

However, we must also recognize that mental health issues are a reality for many individuals, and it is important to seek help from a qualified professional when experiencing problems. Even the most positive-minded individuals can struggle with mental health, and there is no shame in seeking help. By acknowledging the importance of seeking professional help when needed, we can reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues and empower those in need to prioritize their well-being. So, let’s stay witty and informative in our conversations about mental health and remind ourselves and others that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

As surgical technology continues to evolve, it’s essential for surgical techs to stay up-to-date with advances in their field to further their career goals and provide the highest quality patient care.

Fortunately, numerous resources are available for continuing education and certification maintenance requirements. One witty and informative option is attending conferences or workshops where surgical techs can learn about the latest surgical techniques, technologies, and trends from industry experts.

Additionally, subscribing to professional journals or online forums can keep surgical techs informed about their field’s latest research, news, and tips. Maintaining certification through organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) further demonstrates a commitment to professional development and can increase opportunities for career advancement. So why not use these resources for career growth and stay on top in your field?

In summary, finding a job as a surgical technologist can seem overwhelming. Still, you can increase your chances of success by utilizing networking resources, staying active on online job boards, and following up on applications regularly. However, it’s important to remember that sustaining a successful career as a surgical tech requires more than just securing a job.

Taking care of yourself should be your highest priority as a surgical technologist, and self-care should be a top priority for successful practitioners.

This includes physical, emotional, and mental self-care practices to prevent burnout and ensure you deliver the highest quality patient care. By prioritizing your own well-being, you can show up every day as your best self, making a difference in the lives of your patients and colleagues.

Thank you for reading this post on How To Succeed as a surgical technologist with self-care. Check out my YouTube channel for more tips, resources, and advice on the surgical tech career .