According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average surgical technologist salary was $41,310 in May of 2010. Surgical technologists find jobs in a variety of medical settings. Some of these include specialty hospitals, outpatient care centers, general medical and surgical hospitals and offices of physicians and dentists.
Surgical Technologist Salary Specifics
Each setting reported its own average salary in 2010. Specialty hospitals had the highest paying average of $46,630 and offices of physicians came in second offering an average of $42,690. Outpatient care centers paid an average yearly wage of $42,480, whereas surgical technologists working in general medical and surgical hospitals earned an average of $40,780. Dental offices paid the lowest average yearly wage of $37,470.
The salary earned varies according to a number of factors. The local economy affects the average wages as does the experience and education of the surgical technologist. The level of responsibilities and the working hours of the surgical technologist are also determining factors regarding earnings.
Full benefits are usually provided that include paid vacation, medical, vision, life and dental insurance, sick leave and a retirement program. Tuition reimbursement and child care benefits are also provided by some employers.
Job Responsibilities
The main responsibility of surgical technologists is to assist surgeons, registered nurses, anesthesiologists and other surgical personnel during surgical operations. Surgical technologists are often the first ones in the operating room setting out surgical instruments, sterile solutions and sterile drapes. They make sure that all equipment is working properly prior to surgery.
Also before surgery, surgical technologists prepare the patient for surgery by washing, shaving and disinfecting the areas where incisions will take place. They then transport the patient to the operating room and get them in position for the surgery.
While the surgery is being performed, surgical technologists pass surgical instruments and other supplies to the surgeons and their assistants. They may also operate lights, sterilizers, suction machines and diagnostic equipment during the surgery.
Job Outlook
The profession is expected to grow by 25 percent between 2008 and 2018. This is a much higher rate than most occupations. This is largely because the number of required surgeries is constantly growing. As new procedures and surgeries continue to appear, the need for qualified surgical technologists will continue to increase. Because this job is high in demand and the surgical technologist salary is solid, pursuing a career in this field is a great option.
No related posts.