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How much does a surgical tech make? It depends on a number of factors, including experience, location, and employer. Here’s a look at the average salary for surgical techs in the United States.
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Introduction
Pay for surgical technologists varies based on experience, geographic location and the type of employer. The median annual wage for surgical technologists was $47,300 in May 2017, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highest 10 percent earned more than $68,490, and the lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,860.
Most surgical technologists work full time. Because many surgical procedures are performed early in the morning or late at night, some techs work evening or weekend shifts. Those who work in hospitals may be expected to work additional shifts when needed because of an increase in patients or a shortage of techs. During holidays and other busy times, techs may also have to work overtime hours.
What is a Surgical Tech?
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrubs in before an operation. He or she prepares the operating room by setting out sterile instruments and ensuring that all necessary equipment is sterilized and ready to go. During the surgery, the surgical technologist hands instruments to the surgeon and keeps track of any items that are used during the procedure so that they can be properly disinfected or thrown away after the surgery is over.
How Much Does a Surgical Tech Make?
Surgical techs, also called operating room technicians or scrub techs, are allied health professionals who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, and registered nurses in the operating room. They are responsible for setting up the operating room with the necessary medical equipment and supplies, as well as Sterilizing instruments and ensuring that the sterile field is maintained throughout the surgery.
In addition, surgical techs may also be responsible for transporting patients to the operating room, positioning them on the operating table, and helping to prepare them for surgery. During surgery, surgical techs hand instruments and other supplies to surgeons and first assistants. They also may hold retractors or use suction devices to keep the surgical area clear. After surgery, surgical techs may transport patients to the recovery area and assist in transferring them to a hospital bed.
The median annual salary for a surgical technologist was $47,300 in May 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The highest 10 percent earned more than $68,490 per year, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,130 per year. Most surgical technologists worked full time in hospitals; however, some worked in physicians’ offices or outpatient care centers.
Factors That Affect a Surgical Tech’s Salary
There are many factors that affect how much a surgical tech makes. The type of employer, the location, the amount of experience, and the kind of credentials a surgical tech has can all impact earnings.
In general, hospital-based surgical techs tend to make more than those who work in outpatient centers or other settings. Surgical techs who work in highly populated urban areas also typically earn more than those in rural areas. And, as with most occupations, those with more experience and higher levels of education and certification can Command higher salaries.
Job Outlook for Surgical Techs
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for surgical technologists is positive, with a projected employment growth of 4% from 2018 to 2028. This growth is about average when compared to other jobs. The median annual salary for surgical technologists was $47,300 in 2018, which means that half of all surgical techs earned more than this amount and half earned less. The highest-paid 10% of technologists made $67,810 or more, while the lowest-paid 10% earned $33,040 or less.
Conclusion
In conclusion, surgical techs can make a comfortable living. The average salary for a surgical tech is $38,000 per year. However, salaries will vary depending on experience, geographical location, and place of employment. There are many factors that can affect how much a surgical tech makes.
