What Does a Surgical Tech Do?

Surgical technicians, also known as surgical techs or operating room (OR) technicians, are vital members of surgical teams. They play a crucial role in ensuring that surgical procedures run smoothly and safely. Here’s an overview of the duties and responsibilities of a surgical tech:

1. Preparation of the Operating Room:

• Surgical techs are responsible for preparing the operating room before a surgery takes place. This includes sterilizing and organizing surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies. They must ensure that everything is in its proper place and ready for use.

2. Assisting Surgeons and Nurses:

• During surgery, surgical techs assist surgeons and nurses by passing instruments and supplies, maintaining a sterile field, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team. They must be able to quickly and accurately provide the surgeon with the required tools and materials.

3. Patient Preparation:

• Before surgery, surgical techs help prepare patients for the procedure. This may involve cleaning and disinfecting the surgical site and positioning the patient on the operating table.

4. Sterile Technique:

• Maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room is paramount to prevent infections. Surgical techs must adhere to strict protocols for hand hygiene, gowning, gloving, and draping to minimize the risk of contamination.

5. Operating Room Maintenance:

• Surgical techs are responsible for keeping the operating room organized and ensuring that equipment is functioning correctly. They may troubleshoot technical issues with surgical instruments and machinery.

6. Counting Instruments and Supplies:

• Surgical techs participate in the process of counting surgical instruments, sponges, and other materials before and after surgery to ensure that nothing is left inside the patient.

7. Collaboration:

• They collaborate closely with other members of the surgical team, including surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and anesthesia technicians, to provide safe and efficient patient care.

8. Anticipating Needs:

• Surgical techs must anticipate the needs of the surgical team, ensuring that instruments and supplies are readily available. Their ability to think ahead and respond quickly is critical during surgery.

9. Postoperative Duties:

• After surgery, surgical techs assist with wound dressings, transferring patients to the recovery room, and cleaning and restocking the operating room for the next procedure.

10. Knowledge and Skills: – Surgical techs require a strong understanding of anatomy, surgical procedures, and medical terminology. They should be skilled in using various surgical instruments and equipment.

11. Adherence to Protocols: – Adhering to strict protocols, guidelines, and safety measures is essential for surgical techs to maintain a safe and sterile surgical environment.

12. Continuing Education: – To stay current in their field, surgical techs often pursue continuing education and certification. This helps them keep up with advancements in surgical techniques and technology.

Surgical techs play a critical role in ensuring the success of surgical procedures and the safety of patients. Their precision, attention to detail, and ability to work well under pressure make them valuable members of surgical teams in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and other healthcare facilities.