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A surgical technologist is an important member of the surgical team. They are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is ready for the procedure, and that the patient is prepared for surgery. They also assist the surgeon during the procedure.
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Job Description
Surgical techs are an important part of the surgical team. They prepare the operating room for surgery and make sure that all of the necessary equipment is sterile and ready to use. They also help to transport patients to and from the operating room, and sometimes even help to position them on the operating table.
Surgical tech job description
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrubs in before an operation to make sure the operating room is clean and that the patient is prepped and ready for surgery. Once the surgeon and assistants are scrubbed in and gloved, the surgical technologist hands them the instruments they need during surgery. He or she also may hold retractors, suture material or catheters.
Duties
Surgical techs are an important part of the surgical team. They are responsible for making sure that the operating room is clean and sterile and that the equipment is ready to be used. They also help to prep the patient for surgery and assist the surgeon during the procedure.
Surgical tech duties
Working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel, surgical techs have a significant role in the successful outcome of an operation. They are responsible for making sure that the operating room is clean and ready for surgery, as well as ensuring that all of the necessary medical equipment is sterilized and in working order.
During surgery, surgical techs will often hand instruments to the surgeon or hold retractors open for him or her. They may also apply suction or irrigation solutions, as well as prepare and apply dressings. In some cases, they may even assist in closing incisions.
Salary
As of May 2019, the average annual salary for a surgical tech was $47,300, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1 Pay varies depending on experience, geographic location, and place of employment. The top 10% of earners made more than $67,140, while the bottom 10% made less than $33,710.1
Surgical tech salary
The average surgical tech salary is $47,300 annually. However, factors such as geographical location, employer type, and experience can all contribute to a wide range in surgical tech salaries. Surgical techs in California, for example, earn an average of 10% more than the national average. In addition, those who are employed by hospitals tend to earn more than those who work in other settings, such as outpatient care centers or physician’s offices. finally, surgical techs with more experience can expect to earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out in the field.
Education
A surgical technologist, also called a scrub, scrub tech, surgical technician, or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as a part of the team delivering surgical care. Surgical technologists work under the supervision of a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
Surgical tech education
Surgical tech education programs typically last about nine months and lead to a certificate or diploma. Some community colleges offer two-year associate degree programs in surgical technology.
Most surgical tech programs include classroom, laboratory and clinical instruction in such subjects as:
Anatomy
Physiology
Medical ethics
First aid
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Infection control
Surgical techniques
Instrumentation
sterile techniques
Suture materials and methods
Certification
There are many reasons why someone might want to become a surgical tech. It is a stable and growing career field with opportunities for advancement. As a surgical tech, you will play a vital role in the operating room, working alongside surgeons to ensure that procedures are carried out effectively and efficiently. In order to become a surgical tech, you will need to complete a certification program.
Surgical tech certification
Surgical tech certification is not required in all states, but employers often prefer to hire surgical technologists who are certified. There are several certification options available, and each has different requirements.
The most common certification for surgical technologists is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible for the CST exam, candidates must have completed an accredited surgical technology program and must have graduated from high school or have a GED. Candidates must also pass a criminal background check.
The CST credential is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking Exam C or passing Exam R, a recertification exam. Candidates who do not pass Exam C or Exam R may retake the examination after one year.
Other certification options for surgical technologists include the Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician (CBSPD) credential offered by the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM), and the Surgical Assisting Certification offered by the National Commission on Certification of Surgical Assisting (NCCSA).
