Surgical TechnicianSurgical room technicians (technologists) are responsible for the preparation of the patient and the operating room before and during the surgical procedure. They check for needed surgical tools and make sure the tools are sterilized and in the proper position for easy access during the surgery. They prepare the patient (prep) by cleaning and removing hair from the surgical field and draping the area to be incised.
The surgical technician may help during the surgical procedure by assisting the surgeon and nurses to don gloves and gowns; by monitoring vital signs and by handing needed equipment to the surgical team as requested.
Training for the surgical technician career is provided in community and junior colleges, the military, trade and vocational schools and in teaching hospitals. Over 360 accredited programs currently exist in the United States and training terms range from 9 to 24 months. The successful completion of the surgical technician courses means a certificate, diploma or even an Associate of Applied Science degree.
Two different organizations certify competency in the field of surgical technology. Each has different pre-requisites and terms. The Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologists is voluntary and is good for four years. Continuing education credits and retesting are required to maintain the certification. The National Center for Competency Testing is good for 5 years and also provides for continuing Education credits and retesting to maintain licensure.
Job outlook for the field is very favorable and salary expectations were in the $31,000 annual range in 2002.
Additional information can be found at the websites listed below.
Association of Surgical Technologists (www.ast.org)
The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) (www.nbstsa.org)
Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology (www.arcst.org)
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