Surgical Tech Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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Becoming a Surgical Technologist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Are you considering a career as a Surgical Technologist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps needed to become a Surgical Tech, also known as an Operating Room Technician. Surgical Technologists play a crucial role in the operating room, assisting surgeons and ensuring that procedures run smoothly. There are several educational paths to becoming a Surgical Tech, including certificate programs, associate degrees, and on-the-job training.

About Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, located in the heart of South Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, boating canals, and bustling arts scene. As a major city within the Miami metropolitan area, Fort Lauderdale offers a variety of opportunities for those pursuing a career in healthcare. For more information about the city, visit the official Fort Lauderdale website.

Surgical Tech Training Programs in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale offers several accredited Surgical Tech programs that can help you start your career in this rewarding field. Here are three local schools offering Surgical Tech programs:

1. Sheridan Technical College
   Located in Hollywood, just a short drive from Fort Lauderdale, Sheridan Technical College offers a comprehensive Surgical Technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in a clinical setting. For more information, visit their Surgical Technology program page.

2. Atlantic Technical College
   Situated in Coconut Creek, Atlantic Technical College provides a Surgical Technology program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the field. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Learn more about their program here.

3. McFatter Technical College
   Located in Davie, McFatter Technical College offers a Surgical Technology program that includes both classroom learning and clinical experience. This program is also accredited by CAAHEP, ensuring high educational standards. Visit their program page for details.

Surgical Tech Employment Opportunities in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Surgical Technologists. Here are some key employers in the area:

1. Broward Health Medical Center
   Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Broward Health Medical Center is one of the largest healthcare facilities in the region. They offer a range of employment opportunities for Surgical Techs. Visit their careers page for more information.

2. Holy Cross Health
   Situated in the Coral Ridge neighborhood, Holy Cross Health is a full-service hospital known for its high-quality care. They frequently seek qualified Surgical Technologists to join their team. Check out their employment opportunities.

3. Memorial Regional Hospital
   Located in nearby Hollywood, Memorial Regional Hospital is part of the Memorial Healthcare System and offers numerous career opportunities for Surgical Techs. For more details, visit their careers page.

Prerequisites for Surgical Tech Programs

To enroll in a Surgical Tech program in Fort Lauderdale, you typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED
• A minimum age of 18, although some programs accept 17-year-olds
• A high school GPA of 2.0 or higher
• The ability to pass a physical exam and background check
• Entrance exam scores (Accuplacer, SAT, or ACT)
• Application documents, including references and transcripts

Surgical Tech Certification Requirements

While Florida does not require state certification, most employers prefer candidates who have obtained the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The certification exam fee is $190 for AST members and $290 for non-members. To maintain certification, you must complete 60 continuing education units every four years. For more information, visit the NBSTSA website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Surgical Technologist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a rewarding decision that offers numerous opportunities in the healthcare field. With the right training and certification, you can join a team of professionals dedicated to improving patient outcomes. Contact a local school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your new career.

For more information on the job outlook for Surgical Technologists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.