What Do Surgical Techs Do?

Surgical technologists, often referred to as surgical techs or scrub techs, are integral members of the surgical team in healthcare settings. They play a critical role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly and safely. If you’re considering a career as a surgical tech or want to understand their responsibilities, this article will provide insights into what surgical techs do in the operating room.

Preparing the Operating Room

Surgical techs are responsible for preparing the operating room before surgery. Their duties include:

• Ensuring all necessary surgical instruments and equipment are sterile and ready for use.
• Arranging the surgical instruments and supplies in an organized and accessible manner.
• Verifying that all equipment, such as lights and anesthesia machines, is in working order.
• Confirming that all needed medications and solutions are available.

Assisting the Surgical Team

During surgery, surgical techs serve as a crucial assistant to the surgical team, which typically includes surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. Their responsibilities include:

• Handing sterile instruments and supplies to the surgeon and surgical nurses.
• Anticipating the needs of the surgical team by providing the right instruments and equipment in a timely manner.
• Counting surgical instruments and sponges before and after the procedure to ensure nothing is left inside the patient.
• Managing and passing sutures and other materials used for wound closure.
• Assisting with patient positioning and draping to maintain a sterile field.

Ensuring Sterile Conditions

Maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room is paramount. Surgical techs are responsible for:

• Creating and maintaining a sterile field around the surgical site.
• Wearing sterile gowns and gloves and ensuring that all members of the surgical team adhere to strict sterile procedures.
• Monitoring and addressing any breaches of sterility to minimize the risk of infection.

Handling Surgical Equipment

Surgical techs are skilled in the use of various surgical instruments and equipment. They are responsible for:

• Setting up and operating equipment such as suction devices, electrocautery devices, and surgical lasers.
• Maintaining and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment.
• Troubleshooting and assisting with any technical issues that may arise during surgery.

Post-Operative Responsibilities

After surgery, surgical techs help with the cleanup and post-operative procedures, including:

• Safely disposing of used supplies and equipment.
• Assisting with wound dressings and bandaging.
• Transporting the patient to the recovery area or the intensive care unit (ICU).
• Updating surgical records and ensuring accurate documentation of the procedure.

Team Collaboration

Effective communication and collaboration with other members of the surgical team, including surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists, are essential for surgical techs to perform their duties efficiently and ensure patient safety.

Conclusion

Surgical techs are essential professionals in the operating room, working diligently to support surgical procedures and maintain patient safety. Their responsibilities include preparing the operating room, assisting the surgical team, ensuring sterile conditions, handling surgical equipment, and participating in post-operative care. Surgical techs play a crucial role in ensuring that surgeries are conducted smoothly, efficiently, and with a focus on patient well-being.