Emergency surgery units require 24-hour coverage. Benefits provided by most employers include paid vacation and sick leave, health, medical, vision, dental insurance and life insurance, and retirement programs. A few employers also provide child care benefits. Surgical Technicians must be a high school graduate. Some community college programs, however, last two years and lead to an associate degree.
Students receive classroom training, as well as supervised clinical experience.
They study anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Other courses include the care and safety of patients, use of anesthesia, and nursing procedures. Students also learn how to sterilize instruments, prevent and control infection, and handle special drugs, supplies, and equipment. Upon graduation from the training program, students are eligible to apply for certification by the Liaison Council on Certification of Surgical Technologists. The Liaison Council certifies Surgical Technologists who pass a comprehensive written examination.