Surgical Tech Schools
Surgical Tech Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
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Becoming a Surgical Technologist in St. Petersburg, Florida
Are you considering a career as a Surgical Technologist in St. Petersburg, Florida? This guide will walk you through the steps 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 various educational paths to becoming a Surgical Tech, including diploma, certificate, and associate’s degree programs. Let’s explore what St. Petersburg has to offer for aspiring Surgical Technologists.
About St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, often referred to as “The Sunshine City,” is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and thriving arts scene, St. Petersburg is a great place to live and work. For more information about the city, visit the official St. Petersburg website. Whether you’re exploring the downtown area or enjoying the waterfront parks, St. Petersburg offers a welcoming environment for students and professionals alike.
Surgical Tech Training Programs in St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Petersburg offers several options for those interested in pursuing a career as a Surgical Technologist. Here are some local schools that provide accredited Surgical Tech programs:
- St. Petersburg College
- Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg College offers an Associate in Science degree in Surgical Services. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and includes comprehensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, and surgical procedures. For more details, visit the St. Petersburg College Surgical Services program page.
- Santa Fe College
- Although located in Gainesville, Santa Fe College is a notable option for Floridians seeking a Surgical Tech program. The college offers a CAAHEP-accredited program that prepares students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. For more information, check out the Santa Fe College Surgical Technology program page.
- College of Central Florida
- Situated in Ocala, the College of Central Florida provides a comprehensive Surgical Technology program. This program is also accredited by CAAHEP and offers a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Learn more at the College of Central Florida Surgical Technology program page.
Surgical Tech Employment Opportunities in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is home to several major healthcare facilities that employ Surgical Technologists. Here are some key employers in the area:
- Bayfront Health St. Petersburg
- Located in the downtown area, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg is a leading healthcare provider offering a range of medical services. They frequently seek qualified Surgical Techs to join their team. Visit the Bayfront Health St. Petersburg careers page for current job openings.
- St. Anthony’s Hospital
- Situated in the Historic Kenwood neighborhood, St. Anthony’s Hospital is part of the BayCare Health System and provides excellent career opportunities for Surgical Technologists. Explore their employment opportunities for more information.
- Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
- Located in the Old Northeast neighborhood, this renowned children’s hospital offers specialized surgical services and employs skilled Surgical Techs. Check out their careers page for job listings.
Prerequisites for Surgical Tech Programs
To enroll in a Surgical Tech program, prospective students typically need to meet certain prerequisites, including:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Minimum college-ready placement scores in reading, writing, and mathematics, or transcripts showing previous college-level coursework
- Completion of any required entrance exams or background checks
- Meeting physical and sensory ability requirements
Surgical Tech Certification Requirements
While Florida does not require certification by law, obtaining the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is highly preferred by employers. The CST certification is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To maintain certification, Surgical Techs must earn 60 continuing education credits over a four-year cycle or retake the exam.
Licensure Requirements
Florida does not require state licensure for Surgical Technologists. However, employers often prefer candidates who hold national certification.
Licensure Reciprocity
As there is no state licensure requirement for Surgical Techs in Florida, reciprocity agreements are not applicable.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Surgical Technologist in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a rewarding choice. With accredited programs and numerous employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to start your journey. Contact a local school today to learn more about their Surgical Tech programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in healthcare.
For more information on the job outlook for Surgical Technologists, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.