Inside the Operating Room: What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Are you fascinated by the fast-paced environment of the operating room and interested in pursuing a career in healthcare? If so, you may have heard about surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs. But what exactly does a surgical tech do, and what role do they play in the operating room? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of surgical technology to uncover the duties, responsibilities, and importance of surgical techs in the surgical setting.

Understanding the Role of Surgical Techs

Surgical technologists are vital members of the surgical team who assist surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the operating room is prepared and equipped for surgery and to provide assistance to the surgical team throughout the procedure. Surgical techs play a crucial role in maintaining a sterile environment, handling surgical instruments, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team.

What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Prepare the Operating Room: Before surgery begins, surgical techs are responsible for preparing the operating room by sterilizing equipment, organizing surgical instruments, and ensuring that all necessary supplies are available. They also set up and maintain sterile drapes and other barriers to create a sterile field around the surgical site.
Assist During Surgery: During surgery, surgical techs assist the surgical team by passing instruments and supplies to the surgeon and other team members as needed. They must anticipate the surgeon’s needs and be ready to provide assistance quickly and efficiently. Surgical techs also help to retract tissues, hold surgical instruments, and suction blood and other fluids from the surgical site.
Monitor Sterile Field: Surgical techs are responsible for maintaining the sterile field throughout the procedure to prevent contamination and reduce the risk of surgical site infections. They must be vigilant in enforcing sterile technique and ensuring that no non-sterile items come into contact with the surgical site.
Handle Surgical Instruments: Surgical techs are trained to handle a wide variety of surgical instruments and equipment, including scalpels, forceps, retractors, and suction devices. They must be proficient in identifying and passing instruments to the surgeon in the correct sequence and with precision.
Assist with Patient Positioning: Surgical techs may assist with positioning and draping the patient on the operating table to ensure optimal access to the surgical site. They must follow established protocols to prevent injury to the patient and maintain patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Manage Surgical Equipment: In addition to surgical instruments, surgical techs are responsible for setting up and operating various types of surgical equipment, such as lights, cameras, and monitors. They must ensure that all equipment is functioning properly and troubleshoot any issues that arise during surgery.
Provide Postoperative Care: After surgery is complete, surgical techs assist with cleaning and disinfecting the operating room, disposing of used supplies and equipment, and restocking supplies for the next procedure. They may also assist with transferring the patient to the recovery area and documenting relevant information about the surgical procedure.

Training and Certification Requirements

Becoming a surgical tech typically requires completion of a formal education program in surgical technology, which may be offered at community colleges, technical schools, or vocational institutes. These programs typically take one to two years to complete and result in a certificate, diploma, or associate degree in surgical technology. Coursework includes classes in anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, surgical procedures, and sterile technique, as well as hands-on clinical experience in the operating room.

In addition to completing an accredited surgical technology program, surgical techs may choose to pursue certification through organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Certification is not always required for employment, but it can enhance job prospects and demonstrate proficiency in the field.

The Importance of Surgical Techs

Surgical techs play a vital role in ensuring the safety and success of surgical procedures. Their expertise in maintaining a sterile environment, handling surgical instruments, and providing assistance to the surgical team is essential for delivering quality patient care. Without the contributions of surgical techs, surgical procedures would be more challenging and less efficient, increasing the risk of complications for patients.

Job Outlook and Salary Potential

The job outlook for surgical technologists is promising, with employment projected to grow faster than average in the coming years due to advances in medical technology and an aging population in need of surgical procedures. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $74,100.

FAQs: What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

What qualifications do I need to become a surgical tech?

To become a surgical tech, you typically need to complete a formal education program in surgical technology and may choose to pursue certification through a professional organization.

What skills are important for a surgical tech?

Important skills for surgical techs include attention to detail, manual dexterity, communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Is the job market favorable for surgical techs?

Yes, the job outlook for surgical technologists is favorable, with strong demand for qualified professionals in hospitals, surgical centers, and other healthcare settings.

What are the opportunities for advancement in the field of surgical technology?

Surgical techs may pursue advanced certifications, such as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Surgical Technologist-Certified in Surgery (TS-C), or may choose to specialize in a particular area of surgery, such as orthopedics or neurosurgery.

What is a typical day like for a surgical tech?

A typical day for a surgical tech involves preparing the operating room for surgery, assisting the surgical team during procedures, and providing postoperative care to patients. The exact duties may vary depending on the type of surgery and the healthcare facility.

Surgical techs play a crucial role in the operating room, supporting surgeons and other members of the surgical team to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of patient care. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, from preparing the operating room and handling surgical instruments to assisting with patient care and maintaining a sterile environment. By completing a formal education program in surgical technology and obtaining certification, you can embark on a rewarding career as a surgical tech and make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare. Whether you’re assisting with routine surgeries or complex procedures, your contributions as a surgical tech are essential for the success of surgical outcomes and the well-being of patients.