What’s your opinion?
Hot take: New surgical techs aren’t failing because they’re being corrected… they’re struggling because too many people take correction as a personal attack instead of an opportunity to improve.
👇 Is constant correction part of learning … or do some preceptors go too far? Let’s talk.
From my experience working as a surgical technologist trainee, one of the most challenging aspects is receiving feedback during surgeries and practical sessions. Early on, it felt like every correction was a personal critique, which was discouraging and made me question my abilities. However, over time, I learned that the key to growth in this field is reframing how we perceive correction. I found that when feedback is offered constructively and with clear intent to help, it significantly improves my skills and builds confidence. It's important for preceptors to balance their approach—too little feedback can leave trainees unaware of mistakes, while too much or overly harsh correction can lead to stress and burnout. Personally, I've benefited most when corrections include specific guidance and encouragement. For example, rather than just pointing out what's wrong, a good preceptor explains why a certain technique matters for patient safety and how to improve it step by step. Another tip for fellow surgical tech students struggling with constant correction is to actively ask questions and engage with your mentors. Showing that you're eager to learn can make feedback feel less like criticism and more like a collaborative effort to master the skills. In summary, correction is an essential part of surgical technologist education, but the way it’s delivered and received shapes the learning experience. Embracing feedback as a valuable tool rather than a personal attack can lead to greater professional growth and ultimately better patient care outcomes.
