How to Become a Surgical Tech in Maine
- 1). Complete an accredited surgical technologist program. Although the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that there are more than 450 accredited training programs for surgical technologists in the United States, only two exist in Maine--at the Maine Medical Center in Portland and at Eastern Maine Technical College in Bangor.
Although specific coursework varies among programs, you can expect to dedicate at least one year of full-time study to complete your training. Classroom and laboratory work focuses on anatomy, physiology, operating room technology, safety procedures and medical ethics. Hands-on rotations through hospital operating rooms allow you to gain supervised clinical experience. - 2). After completing your training, apply to sit for the national certification examination. Before you can take the national certification examination for surgical technologists, you must submit an application to the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting. Applications must include proof of graduation from an accredited program, a passport-sized photo and exam fees.
After verification and acceptance of your application, the NBSTSA will send you a letter with instructions on how to schedule your examination through the testing website or through a toll-free telephone number. Testing centers throughout Maine offer the computer-based examination. - 3). Take and pass the certification examination. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting notes there are 200 questions on the certification exam, and you must answer at least 112 questions correctly to pass.
Exam questions focus on surgical technologist duties before the procedure, intra-operative activities, post-operative care and administrative functions. Basic science questions, equipment sterilization and maintenance, and medical ethical issues are also part of the test.
After you pass the examination, you receive your certification to become a surgical technologist.
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