What Is A Surgical Tech Role? Career Guide

Surgical technologists, also known as surgical techs or operating room technicians, play a vital role in the healthcare system. They are allied health professionals who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are conducted safely and efficiently. The role of a surgical tech is multifaceted, requiring a combination of technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Primary Responsibilities:

1. Preparing the Operating Room: Surgical techs are responsible for setting up the operating room, including arranging equipment, supplies, and instruments according to the surgeon’s preferences.
2. Maintaining a Sterile Environment: They must maintain a sterile environment during surgical procedures, which includes sterilizing equipment, preparing sterile supplies, and ensuring that the operating room remains contamination-free.
3. Assisting the Surgical Team: Surgical techs assist the surgical team during procedures, which may include handing instruments to the surgeon, cutting sutures, and helping to maintain a clear surgical site.
4. Instrument Management: They are responsible for managing surgical instruments, including counting, sorting, and sterilizing them before and after each procedure.
5. Patient Care: Surgical techs may also be involved in patient care, including preparing patients for surgery, transferring them to the operating room, and providing emotional support during the procedure.

Education and Training:

To become a surgical tech, one typically needs to complete a postsecondary certificate or associate’s degree program in surgical technology. These programs are usually offered at community colleges, vocational schools, or universities and include both classroom instruction and clinical training. Coursework may cover topics such as:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Surgical procedures and techniques
• Patient care and safety
• Sterilization and disinfection methods
• Surgical instrumentation and equipment

Certification and Licensure:

While certification is not always required, it is highly recommended for surgical techs. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) offers the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential, which demonstrates a level of competence and expertise in the field. Additionally, some states may require licensure or registration to practice as a surgical tech.

Career Outlook and Salary:

The demand for surgical techs is expected to grow 7% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and an increased need for surgical services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for surgical techs was 51,420 in May 2020. However, salaries can range from 35,000 to over $70,000 depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer.

Work Environment:

Surgical techs work in a variety of settings, including:

1. Hospitals: This is the most common work setting for surgical techs, where they may work in inpatient or outpatient surgical departments.
2. Ambulatory Surgical Centers: These centers provide outpatient surgical services, and surgical techs may work here to assist with procedures.
3. Physician Offices: Some surgical techs may work in physician offices, assisting with minor surgical procedures or providing patient care.
4. Clinics: Surgical techs may also work in clinics, such as urgent care centers or specialty clinics, where they may assist with procedures or provide patient care.

Key Skills and Qualities:

To be successful as a surgical tech, one should possess:

1. Attention to detail: The ability to maintain a sterile environment and ensure that instruments and equipment are properly sterilized is crucial.
2. Communication skills: Surgical techs must be able to communicate effectively with the surgical team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses.
3. Physical stamina: Surgical techs may be required to stand for long periods, lift heavy equipment, and work in a fast-paced environment.
4. Emotional stability: The operating room can be a high-stress environment, and surgical techs must be able to remain calm and composed under pressure.
5. Continuing education: The field of surgical technology is constantly evolving, and surgical techs must be committed to ongoing education and professional development to stay current with new techniques and technologies.

Specializations:

Surgical techs may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as:

1. Cardiovascular surgery: Surgical techs may work in cardiovascular surgery, assisting with procedures such as heart transplants or coronary artery bypass grafting.
2. Neurosurgery: They may work in neurosurgery, assisting with procedures such as brain surgery or spinal surgery.
3. Pediatric surgery: Surgical techs may work in pediatric surgery, assisting with procedures such as cleft palate repair or pediatric orthopedic surgery.
4. Robotic surgery: With the increasing use of robotic technology in surgery, surgical techs may specialize in robotic surgery, assisting with procedures such as robotic prostatectomy or robotic hysterectomy.

Conclusion:

The role of a surgical tech is a rewarding and challenging career that requires a unique combination of technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. With the demand for surgical services expected to grow, the career outlook for surgical techs is promising. By understanding the primary responsibilities, education and training requirements, and key skills and qualities necessary for success, individuals can make informed decisions about pursuing a career in this field.

Pros and Cons of a Career as a Surgical Tech

Pros:

• Job security and stability
• Opportunities for advancement and specialization
• Variety of work settings and schedules
• Sense of satisfaction and fulfillment from helping patients

Cons:

• High-stress environment
• Physical demands of the job
• Emotional challenges of working in a high-stakes environment
• Continuous need for education and training to stay current