CST versus RN

[happysmiler89]

I am currently taking my pre-reqs for an ASN program. There is a hospital about 30 miles away that is offering a surgical technologist program, and I'm thinking about looking in to it. I would have to put the nursing program on hold for a while, but it seems like a really good opportunity to get a good job in the medical field. I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice as far as job outlook for a surgical tech goes. Thanks!!!!!!!

[sunnyjohn]

Is the hospital going to pay for your CST?

I am a CST and I LOVE my job. I make good money. I've worked in all kinds of places and a few different countries.... BUT I am on the nursing school trek.

Do a search for some of my posts here on this subject.

I'll be happy to answer your questions.

Good luck.

[Crux1024]

I agree with Sunnyjohn...

Research your options...

CST and RN are 2 totally different things..

I have been a CST for 5 years and am now in school for my ASN. I love the experience I received from the OR, It is like nothing else you will EVER experience. The only drawback (for me) is that there is no recogniton for you from your patients, most of the time they have no idea who was back in the room, since theyre been given a "cocktail" prior or soon after coming back to the OR.

UltimatelyIm in school b/c I want more knowledge, responsibility and more job security (not to mention more money) Good Luck with your decision!!

[suzanne4, RN]

Please check out the Operating Room Forum that we have here for more information for you.

And best of luck with whichever route that you decide to follow.:balloons:

[RN1989]

If you enjoy scrubbing and think you want to do that for a career then a CST is the way to go. Lots of hospitals no longer have nurses scrub anymore because of the cost. There must be an RN in the room - the circulator - but there is not an absolute on who scrubs in with the doctor. CSTs are cheaper than RNs by a long shot. Of course a CST makes decent money compared to a non-skilled type of career. This would definitely help you pay tuition should you decide to further you education beyond that of a CST. It would also give you a look at healthcare and help you see if you want to continue in healthcare as an RN or not and if so, would help with your studies since you already have some understanding of the healthcare system.

[HeatherB,CST]

Another good resource is the forums at the Association of Surgical Technologists www.ast.org/forum . There are many experienced STs/CSTs there who can give you insight. Just reading the archived posts will be immensely helpful for you, if you have questions about being a CST. I am currently in a CST AAS degree program, and LOVING it. But the above posters are right, it's apples and oranges. I had specific reasons for not going in to nursing school, but I'm not ruling out the possibility after I scrub for a few years. Best of luck to you!