Career Spotlight: Surgical Technician
This week, Dr. Cameron Ricks interviews Karen Selway about her career as a surgical technician. Our goal is to share a career journey in healthcare, and we hope you will share it with your students as they explore careers for their future!
Check out some highlights from our interview, and watch the entire interview for more.
Tell Us About Yourself.
I work at UCI Medical Center, and I’ve been a surgical tech for over 12 years. I have spent most of the 12 years at UCI.
What was the career path that led you to where you are today?
Out of high school, I went straight to working as a secretary in an office. I did this for about 4 years after high school and then moved. I came in contact with a friend who was in school to be a surgical tech and listened to all that she was doing in the program that I wanted to check it out. I was fascinated that you could be part of surgery and not have to be a dr. I asked her what school she was going to and signed up! The program back then was 18 months. I believe now that it is closer to two years. I am certified, and it is accredited by the Association of Surgical Technologists. You don’t have to be certified, but it provides a lot of training, and many hospitals require this to work there.
What does a surgical technician do?
Surgical techs are a critical part of the OR team. You start by making sure you have all the supplies and instruments you need for the cases that day. Once you have established that everything is ready, you start by opening up all supplies. Everything has to be opened using a sterile technique. The tech has to scrub in and follow a methodical process. You set all that is needed is a set process, so you know exactly where it is during the procedure. During the procedure, you anticipate what the surgeon will need. The surgical tech is the right hand of the surgeon so they can focus on the surgery. There are a lot of communication and relationship skills. You have to have very thick skin because surgery can be stressful.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Being able to be in sync during the surgery. This is where you don’t even need to talk and just know what the surgeon needs. They know you know what you are doing.
Do you have advice for students?
I would advise high school students to do this. I love what I do. I feel this role is important. I feel like the more pride you take in the job, the better you feel. Use this as a stepping stone to advance your career. You can see what you like and determine what you want to do ultimately. The schooling isn’t long, and the relationships are great. There is also good money for this position.
There are a lot of schools nationwide. Many are located in a junior college, but there are some at private schools that cost more.
Resources for learning more about this career:
Association of Surgical Technologists
Learn more about SimRated and schedule a demo with us to help your students prepare for a medical career.