If you’re interested in a career as a surgical tech and are wondering what they actually do, you’re in the right place.
In this article, we’ll discuss about surgical techs, their work environment, the other names that refer to them, specialized areas, earning potential, and their job prospects.
We’ll also discuss about their roles and responsibilities from preparing the operating room to postoperative duties, then we’ll take a detailed look at a day in their life.
Finally, you’ll learn about the skills that you might need as an aspiring surgical tech to perform your duties to the best of your abilities, with a perfect scenario to help you understand why developing that skill is important.
So, without further due, let’s get started!
What is a Surgical Tech?
Surgical Techs are skilled professionals who assist surgeons and other surgical team members before, during, and after surgical procedures, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
They play an important role in the operating room by ensuring every aspect of the surgical process is managed with precision and care.
This comprehensive role makes them indispensable members of the healthcare team, contributing significantly to patient outcomes and the overall functioning of surgical services.
Read -> What is a Surgical Tech?
They are also referred to as
Surgical Techs are also known by several other titles, including Operating Room Technicians or the OR Tech, Scrub Techs, Surgical Technicians, and Surgical Technologists. These terms all refer to the same essential role within the surgical team.
Work Environment
Surgical Techs primarily work in hospital operating rooms, but they can also be found in outpatient surgical centers, clinics, and private physician offices.
Their work environment is fast-paced and requires precision, as they handle sterile instruments, prepare patients for surgery, and ensure the operating room remains clean and organized.
Specialized Areas
Surgical Techs can specialize in various fields of surgery, each with its unique demands and procedures.
Some of the specialized areas where Surgical Techs are commonly found include:
General Surgery: Assisting in routine surgical procedures such as appendectomies and gallbladder removals.
Cardiology: Supporting heart-related surgeries like bypass operations and heart valve replacements.
Neurosurgery: Working on surgeries involving the brain and spinal cord.
Organ Transplantation: Assisting in complex surgeries to transplant organs like kidneys, liver, and heart.
Orthopedic: Supporting surgeries on bones, joints, and muscles.
Pediatric Surgery: Assisting in surgical procedures specifically for children.
Plastic Surgery: Helping in reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries.
Earning Potential
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2023, the average annual salary for Surgical Techs is $60,370, with an average hourly wage of about $29.
The top 10% of Surgical Techs earn more than $83,150 annually, reflecting factors such as experience, specialization, education, and certification. However, the lowest 10% earn around $40,640 per year.
Job Prospect
The job outlook for Surgical Techs is promising. The BLS projects a 5% growth rate in employment for surgical assistants and technologists over the next decade, translating to approximately 8,600 new job openings annually.
In 2022, Surgical Techs held about 109,200 jobs, with hospitals being the largest employers. This high demand underscores the vital role that Surgical Techs play in the healthcare system.
Read More:
-> Surgical Tech Job Description
What Does a Surgical Tech Do? Top Job Duties
A Surgical Tech plays an integral role in the operating room from preoperative preparations to postoperative care.
They are crucial team members who assist surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that surgeries are performed efficiently and safely.
Their duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, each critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of the operating room.
Here are the top job duties of a surgical tech –
Preparing the Operating Room
Preparing the operating room is a meticulous process. Surgical Techs start by thoroughly cleaning and sterilizing the room and all surfaces. They then arrange surgical instruments and equipment, making sure everything is organized and easily accessible. Surgical Techs also set up sterile drapes and ensure that the operating table is correctly positioned and ready for the patient.
Proper preparation prevents infections and ensures that the surgery proceeds without delays or complications. A well-prepared operating room contributes to a smooth surgical process and optimal patient outcomes.
Patient Preparation
Just before the surgery, they prepare patients by cleaning the incision site and positioning them on the operating table. They ensure the patient is properly draped and ready for the procedure.
Proper patient preparation reduces the risk of infection and ensures that the surgical team has optimal access to the surgical site, facilitating a successful procedure.
Maintaining the Sterile Field
Surgical Techs are vigilant in maintaining the sterile field throughout the surgery. This involves constantly monitoring the environment and ensuring that no non-sterile objects or surfaces come into contact with sterile areas.
Maintaining a sterile field is crucial to preventing infections and complications. It ensures that the patient remains safe from potential contaminants throughout the surgery.
Assisting During Surgery
Surgical Techs hold retractors and help manage the sterile field. During surgery, they stand beside the surgeon, ready to pass instruments and supplies as needed. They anticipate the surgeon’s needs and provide them the tools quickly.
Their assistance allows surgeons to focus on the procedure without interruptions. Quick and accurate handling of instruments is critical for the efficiency and success of the surgery.
Handling Surgical Specimens
Surgical Techs carefully handle, label, and transport surgical specimens to the laboratory for analysis. They follow strict protocols to ensure the integrity of the specimens.
Accurate handling of specimens is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. It ensures that samples are not compromised and that the patient receives appropriate follow-up care.
Managing Surgical Instruments
They are responsible for counting and tracking all surgical instruments and sponges before, during, and after surgery. This involves a detailed inventory to ensure nothing is left inside the patient.
Proper management of instruments prevents foreign objects from being left inside the patient, which can cause severe complications and require additional surgeries.
Sterilizing Instruments and Equipment
Surgical Techs meticulously clean and sterilize all surgical instruments and equipment using autoclaves and other sterilization methods. They also check each instrument to ensure it is in proper working order.
Sterilization prevents infections, ensuring that the surgical environment remains free from contaminants. This is essential for patient safety and recovery.
Postoperative Duties
After the surgery, Surgical Techs clean and disinfect the operating room. This ensures the OR is ready for the next procedure.
Efficient postoperative duties help maintain a continuous flow of surgeries, minimizing downtime and ensuring that the surgical suite is always prepared for emergencies or scheduled procedures.
Documentation
They document the details of the surgical procedure, including the instruments used and the patient’s condition. Accurate documentation is crucial for medical records, providing a detailed account of the surgery for future reference and follow-up care.
Also Read:
-> How To Become A Surgical Tech?
-> Pros And Cons Of Being A Surgical Tech
-> How To Become A Certified Surgical Tech?
-> How Long Does It Take To Become A Surgical Tech?
A Day In The Life Of A Surgical Tech
A Surgical Tech’s day is filled with a variety of tasks that ensure surgeries are performed smoothly and safely. It is demanding yet rewarding.
From the early morning preparations of the operating room to assisting during surgery and handling postoperative duties, Surgical Techs play a critical role in ensuring surgeries are conducted safely and efficiently.
Their meticulous work under pressure and commitment to patient care makes them indispensable members of the healthcare team.
Let’s take a detailed look at what a typical day in the life of a Surgical Tech involves, from the early preparations to the final post-operative duties.
Early Morning -> Preparing the Operating Room
The day begins with sterilizing all surgical instruments and equipment. Surgical Techs use autoclaves and other sterilization techniques to ensure every tool is free of contaminants.
They meticulously check all surgical equipment to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Any malfunctioning equipment is either fixed or replaced immediately.
Surgical instruments are laid out in the order they will be used during the procedure. This organization is crucial for the smooth flow of the surgery.
This meticulous preparation prevents infections, ensures all necessary tools are available, and helps the surgical team work efficiently.
Mid-Morning -> Patient Preparation
Patients are positioned on the operating table according to the type of surgery. This might involve securing them with straps to prevent movement.
The incision site on the patient’s body is cleaned and disinfected thoroughly to minimize infection risk. Sterile drapes are placed around the surgical site, creating a sterile field.
Proper patient preparation is essential for minimizing infection risks and ensuring the surgical team has optimal access to the surgical site.
Late Morning -> Assisting During Surgery
Surgical Techs pass instruments to the surgeon and surgical assistants as needed. They must anticipate the surgeon’s needs and provide the right instruments promptly.
They may hold retractors or other instruments to keep the surgical site open and accessible.
Throughout the procedure, they ensure that the sterile field is maintained and that there are no breaches in protocol.
Finally, any tissue or fluid samples taken during surgery are carefully handled, labeled, and transported to the lab for analysis. Accurate handling of specimens is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.
Early Afternoon -> Postoperative Duties
Surgical Techs count all instruments and sponges to ensure nothing is left inside the patient. They clean and sterilize the operating room, preparing it for the next procedure. This includes disposing of used materials and restocking supplies.
These duties ensure the operating room is ready for the next surgery and that no foreign objects remain in the patient, which could cause severe complications.
Besides that, they document the details of the surgery, including the instruments used, the steps performed, and the patient’s condition. Accurate documentation is crucial for medical records, follow-up care, and any potential future procedures.
Read:
-> Is Surgical Tech School Hard?
Top Skills of a Surgical Tech
A Surgical Tech is an essential member of the surgical team, possessing a unique set of skills that ensure surgeries are conducted smoothly and safely.
The role of a Surgical Tech is multifaceted, requiring a blend of technical skills, manual dexterity, and the ability to perform under pressure.
By mastering these top skills, Surgical Techs play a crucial role in the success of surgical procedures, contributing significantly to patient care and the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.
Here’s a closer look at the top skills required for this vital role:
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail prevents infections, ensures all necessary tools are available, and helps the surgical team work efficiently.
For Instance:
It’s early morning, and the Surgical Tech meticulously prepares the operating room. They check each piece of equipment, ensuring it is clean and functioning correctly.
They arrange instruments in the exact order needed for the upcoming procedure. This careful preparation is crucial to avoid any disruptions during surgery and to maintain a sterile environment.
Also Read:
-> Surgical Tech Certification
-> Can You Be A Surgical Tech Without Certification?
Manual Dexterity
Manual dexterity ensures that the surgical team can perform their tasks without interruption, contributing to the overall success of the surgery.
For Instance:
During a complex surgery, the surgeon needs various instruments quickly and accurately. The Surgical Tech deftly handles and passes instruments, ensuring that the surgeon receives the right tool without delay.
Their ability to handle delicate instruments with precision helps keep the procedure on track.
Anticipation
Anticipation minimizes delays and disruptions, allowing the surgical team to maintain focus and efficiency.
For Instance:
Midway through a procedure, the surgeon requests a tool that wasn’t immediately planned for.
Anticipating the needs of the surgical team, the Surgical Tech already has the instrument ready, having learned to read the flow of the surgery and predict what will be needed next.
Communication Skills
Good communication prevents misunderstandings and errors, ensuring that the surgical team can work together seamlessly.
For Instance:
In the operating room, clear and concise communication is essential. The Surgical Tech communicates effectively with the surgeon, nurses, and other team members, ensuring that everyone is aware of the current status and any changes in the procedure.
Stress Management
Effective stress management ensures that the Surgical Tech can maintain high-performance levels even under pressure, which is critical for patient safety and successful outcomes.
For Instance:
Unexpected complications arise during surgery, creating a high-pressure environment. The Surgical Tech remains calm and composed, continuing to perform their duties efficiently despite the stress.
They assist the surgical team in navigating the complications, providing necessary support without faltering.
Technical Knowledge
Technical knowledge ensures that the Surgical Tech can handle all aspects of the operating room environment, supporting the surgical team with expertise and confidence.
For Instance:
The operating room is equipped with various advanced medical technologies and instruments. The Surgical Tech is proficient in using and troubleshooting these technologies, ensuring that everything works correctly throughout the procedure.
They are familiar with the latest surgical techniques and tools, continuously updating their knowledge.
You May Also Like:
-> Online Surgical Tech Programs
-> Surgical Tech Classes & Courses
-> Surgical Tech Program & Training
-> Surgical Tech Certificate Program
-> Surgical Tech Programs And Schools
Conclusion
Surgical Techs play a critical role in ensuring surgeries are conducted safely and efficiently. Their duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, each critical to maintaining the safety and efficiency of the operating room.
We hope this article could enlighten you about the surgical techs and the different aspects of this career, from salary to specialization, and duties to skills.
Ultimately, if you’re really serious about this career and want to become job-ready as a surgical tech without driving to college, without expensive tuition costs, and without student debt; but from the comfort of your home, then you should check out Preppy’s Surgical Tech Certification Training Program.
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