How to Become a Surgical Tech in Delaware

When it comes to surgical procedures, Delaware is home to a dedicated team of healthcare professionals who ensure that everything runs smoothly, from start to finish.

The operating room is a hub of activity, and it requires a well-coordinated effort from a range of specialized personnel, including:

• Surgeons
• Anesthesia specialist
• Surgical nurse
• Surgical technician

This collaborative effort extends beyond the operating room itself and plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and success of each surgical procedure.

You might hear these professionals referred to as operating room (OR) techs and scrub techs, highlighting their diverse roles.

The Role of Surgical Technologists

Surgical technologists are at the heart of this surgical symphony.

Their job description and duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, such as:

• Preparing patients for surgery
• Transporting patients to and from the OR
• Preparing the OR with surgical equipment and supplies
• Monitoring the instrument count throughout surgery
• Handing the surgeon medical instruments
• Closing wounds and bandaging patients

It’s important to note that this list represents just a portion of the wide array of duties that these medical professionals handle on a daily basis.

Training and Education for Aspiring Surgical Technologists

To embark on the journey to become a surgical technologist in Delaware, individuals must undergo a carefully structured educational and clinical training process.

Although surgical techs are not regulated by a specific governing institution, they must meet stringent requirements to excel in this field.

Aspiring surgical technologists start by completing high school or obtaining a GED.

Subsequently, they enroll in specialized training programs designed to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge.

These programs, offered by various institutions across Delaware, cover an array of essential subjects, including:

• Microbiology,
• Pathophysiology,
• Pharmacology,
• Anatomy,
• Physiology,
• Medical terminology.
• CPR and/or BLS and/or AED

Furthermore, training encompasses critical life-saving techniques such as CPR and the operation of automated external defibrillators (AED).

Specific admission prerequisites vary by institution.

Students typically need a high school diploma or GED and may be required to pass placement exams like the Accuplacer.

Some programs take military service and prior medical experience into account.

Health insurance is a common requirement, given the nature of the profession.

Hands-on experience, a vital aspect of training, entails completing a minimum of 120 clinical cases, including 30 in general surgery, with 20 of them in a first scrub role.

Furthermore, students may need to meet specific academic criteria, such as a minimum composite score on the ACT, a writing score on the Accuplacer, or a Math score on the Accuplacer.

Bevill State Community College

Candidates for this program must meet one of the following prerequisites:

• Minimum composite score of 16 on the ACT
• Minimum Writing score of 4 on Accuplacer or ENG 101
• Minimum Math – Elementary Algebra score of 200 on Accuplacer or MTH 116

This program, with its 29 credit hours, covers topics ranging from sterile processing to infection control, ensuring students are well-versed in the critical facets of surgical technology.

It offers an Occupational Certificate in Surgical Operating Room Technology as well as an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Technology.

This program involves general education classes and specific training in surgical technology.

Calhoun Community College

Students have access to a comprehensive training program covering classroom, lab, and clinical instruction.

To earn an AAS degree, students must complete additional general education credit hours.

Please note that admission requirements and program durations may vary across these institutions, so prospective students should explore these options thoroughly.

Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist in Delaware

While certification is not a legal requirement for surgical technologists in Delaware, many employers seek certified professionals for this role.

Aspiring surgical technologists have several certifying bodies to choose from.

National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA)

Offers the Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) qualification.

National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)

Provides the Certified Surgical Technologist/Certified First Assistant credential, known for its national recognition.

National Center for Competency Training (NCCT)

Offers the Tech in Surgery Certification.

Among these, the NBSTSA certification stands out with its national recognition.

Testing centers for these certifications can be found in various Delaware cities.

The certification exam typically consists of 200 questions, with a minimum of 119 correct answers required to pass.

An associated fee is applicable, depending on membership in relevant professional organizations.

Certified surgical technologists must renew their certifications every four years.

Renewal can be achieved through two methods:

• Retaking the certification exam:
  • This involves repaying the associated fee.
• Completing continuing education classes
  • A total of 60 education credits must be earned during the renewal period.

Certification renewal also necessitates the payment of a renewal fee.

Surgical Technologist Salaries in Delaware

While surgical technology may not be the most glamorous profession, it offers respectable earning potential.

In Delaware, surgical technologists can earn an annual average income of $52,400.

Your salary will reflect the dedication and skill they bring to the operating room.

For a more detailed overview of how salaries differ across different regions within Delaware, refer to the table provided.

Regional Salary in Delaware

Surgical Tech Programs by State