What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Surgical technicians, also known as surgical technologists or scrub techs, are vital members of the healthcare team in the operating room. They play a crucial role in ensuring surgeries go smoothly and patients receive the best care possible. But what does a surgical tech do exactly? In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities and duties of surgical technicians in the operating room.

Role and Responsibilities

1. Preparation of the Operating Room

One of the primary responsibilities of a surgical tech is preparing the operating room for surgery. This involves ensuring that all necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies are sterile and readily available. Surgical techs arrange the surgical instruments, sterilize them, and set up the sterile field in the operating room.

2. Assisting the Surgical Team

During surgery, surgical techs serve as an integral part of the surgical team. They pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon and surgical assistant, anticipate the needs of the surgeon, and maintain a sterile field by adhering to strict aseptic techniques. Surgical techs are responsible for keeping track of all surgical instruments and supplies used during the procedure.

3. Operating Surgical Equipment

Surgical techs are trained to operate various surgical equipment, including suction devices, lights, and diagnostic equipment. They ensure that all equipment is functioning correctly and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during surgery.

4. Patient Care

Surgical techs also play a role in patient care by helping to position the patient on the operating table, draping the patient to maintain a sterile field, and ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure. They may also assist with transporting the patient to and from the operating room.

5. Infection Control

Maintaining a sterile environment is a critical aspect of the surgical tech’s role. They are responsible for ensuring that all surfaces and equipment in the operating room remain sterile and that infection control protocols are strictly followed.

6. Collaboration and Communication

Effective communication and collaboration are essential for surgical techs. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the smooth flow of the surgical procedure. They must be able to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond quickly to requests.

Specializations

Surgical techs may also specialize in specific types of surgery, such as orthopedics, cardiovascular, neurosurgery, or obstetrics. Specialized surgical techs have additional training and expertise in their chosen field, allowing them to assist in more complex procedures.

Education and Certification

To become a surgical tech, individuals typically complete a formal education program in surgical technology, which can lead to a diploma, certificate, or associate’s degree. Many employers prefer or require certification through organizations such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).

Conclusion

In conclusion, surgical technicians play a critical role in the operating room, ensuring that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, assisting the surgical team, operating equipment, providing patient care, maintaining a sterile environment, and facilitating communication among healthcare professionals. With their expertise and attention to detail, surgical techs contribute significantly to the success of surgical procedures and the overall well-being of patients.