Surgical Technologists

What surgical technologists do

Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. May help set up operating room, prepare and transport patients for surgery, adjust lights and equipment, pass instruments and other supplies to surgeons and surgeons' assistants, hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.

Typical tasks

1. 1Maintain a proper sterile field during surgical procedures.
2. 2Count sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation.
3. 3Hand instruments and supplies to surgeons and surgeons' assistants, hold retractors and cut sutures, and perform other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
4. 4Scrub arms and hands and assist the surgical team to scrub and put on gloves, masks, and surgical clothing.
5. 5Wash and sterilize equipment, using germicides and sterilizers.
6. 6Prepare patients for surgery, including positioning patients on the operating table and covering them with sterile surgical drapes to prevent exposure.
7. 7Prepare, care for, and dispose of tissue specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
8. 8Monitor and continually assess operating room conditions, including patient and surgical team needs.
9. 9Prepare dressings or bandages and apply or assist with their application following surgery.
10. 10Clean and restock operating room, gathering and placing equipment and supplies and arranging instruments according to instructions, such as a preference card.

Technology used

• MEDITECH software
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Office software
• Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Word

How to become one

Experience

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.