Best-Kept-Secret Career: Surgical Technologist

By Marty Nemko

Posted: December 11, 2008

Snapshot: Imagine being part of the life-and-death drama of an operating room—no college degree required. Surgical technologists, also known as scrubs and surgical or operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations but must be supervised by surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. During surgery, you're the one to whom the surgeon is yelling: "Scalpel!" "Retractor!"

Getting there: Nine to 24 months of post-high school training will allow you to prep the operating room and perhaps the patient.

Learn more : Occupational Outlook Handbook.

answer for advice

Cynthia, I'm not sure what a sdp tech is...I'm a CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) Each hospital has it's own culture, shop around til you find the one you fit into. New people aren't always treated nicely, by doctors and other staff. Ignore them, don't take it personally, do your job. If possible read the text the night before to familiarize yourself with the cases for the next day. Ask questions until you find someone willing to teach you. I work in eastern KY for very little money, but I stuck it out and am very comfortable in my career now with 18 months experience. I still learn every day though. It takes courage but is well worth it!! Debi

Debi of KY @ Nov 26, 2009 16:38:25 PM

A nurse sexually abused me

I hate nurses with a passion! They are such perverts! My God, I can't believe they get away with all the perverted things they do. I truly wish they would all die! I'm serious!

D of TX @ Nov 25, 2009 04:36:19 AM

A nurse sexually abused me

I hate nurses with a passion! They are such perverts! My God, I can't believe they get away with all the perverted things they do. I truly wish they would all die! I'm serious!

D of TX @ Nov 25, 2009 04:36:18 AM

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