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Jobs For L.A.'s Surgical Technologists Are Rolling In

Prompted by a continual push by hospitals to employ additional surgical technologists, more than 29,000 new assistants are projected to secure positions inside operating rooms by 2022. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is forecasting a 30 percent employment spike over 2012, because medical centers consider these specialists more cost-effective than higher-paid registered nurses.

LA-Nursing
(Photo Courtesy of Caretta M. James)

"There has also been a shift in the field, with techs transitioning to nursing or becoming physicians' assistants," said Caretta M. James, a U.S. Army veteran and senior surgical technologist at Encino Hospital Medical Center. "This has given room for more tech jobs."

Surgical technologists are primarily responsible for preparing and maintaining equipment for medical procedures, in addition to readying patients for surgery. In Los Angeles, it is a role that affords them annual paychecks of up to $55,000, according to current employment data. Earning a post-secondary certificate or an associate's degree will help in finding a job. Keeping abreast of technological changes in the field is beneficial, as well.

How are you keeping pace with evolving technology?

"Here at Encino Hospital, we have an annual skills fair, which trains us on the ever-developing changes in our growing field."

How do you select the best techs for your team?

"Our department's mission is to look for the most-skilled and personable person. It not only takes a person who has been trained well, but also someone who is passionate about helping people."

What defines an effective technologist?

"Patience, compassion and the ability to go the extra mile are key attributes for a good surgical tech."

How does one plan for a lasting vocation?

"The best way to prepare for a career as a surgical technologist is to get the most experience you can and seek out new technological changes in the field."

What is your message to striving technologists?

"My advice to those pursuing a career as a surgical technologist is to always continue to educate yourself. Put yourself in a position for change, and never get stagnate at one job. Learn every service you can, from hearts to general orthopedics. This way, you will be more marketable."

Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.

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