Surgical technologists play a crucial role in the operating room, ensuring that surgeries run smoothly and efficiently. Their expertise and attention to detail contribute significantly to the success of surgical procedures. From prepping the operating room to assisting the surgical team, here are 14 responsibilities that a surgical technologist handles every day.
1. Preparing the Operating Room
One of the primary responsibilities of a surgical technologist is preparing the operating room before a procedure. This involves ensuring that all necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies are ready for use. Sterilization of surgical instruments, arranging surgical tables, and setting up sterile drapes are all integral parts of this preparation process. Attention to detail is crucial to prevent any potential contamination that could compromise the patient's safety.
2. Assisting in Patient Preparation
Surgical technologists also assist in patient preparation, ensuring that the patient is properly positioned on the surgical table and adequately draped. They help in transferring patients safely and comfortably, often liaising between the patient and the surgical team to address any concerns or discomfort.
3. Handing Instruments to Surgeons
During surgery, surgical technologists are responsible for handing instruments and supplies to the surgeons and other members of the surgical team. They must have an in-depth knowledge of various instruments and their uses to anticipate the surgeon's needs and ensure a seamless flow of the procedure.
4. Anticipating Surgeon's Needs
A surgical technologist's ability to anticipate the surgeon's needs is crucial. They must be attentive, ready to provide instruments, sutures, and other supplies promptly. This anticipation is honed through experience and familiarity with various surgical procedures.
5. Maintaining a Sterile Field
Maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room is paramount to prevent infections. Surgical technologists ensure that sterile drapes and covers are properly placed and handle instruments with gloved hands in a way that doesn't compromise sterility.
6. Counting Instruments and Sponges
Before and after surgery, surgical technologists meticulously count all surgical instruments, sponges, and other items used in the procedure. This is a critical step to ensure that no foreign objects are left inside the patient's body, reducing post-operative complications.
7. Collaborating with the Surgical Team
Surgical technologists work closely with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals in the operating room. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to maintain a safe and efficient surgical environment.
8. Operating and Maintaining Equipment
Surgical technologists are often responsible for setting up and operating specialized equipment, such as surgical lights, suction machines, and cautery devices. They also perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise during surgery.
9. Handling Specimens
During surgical procedures, specimens are often collected for further analysis. Surgical technologists are responsible for properly handling and labeling these specimens, ensuring their accurate identification and traceability.
10. Assisting with Anesthesia
Surgical technologists provide assistance to the anesthesia team by helping position patients for anesthesia administration and monitoring patients' vital signs throughout the procedure.
11. Managing Surgical Waste
Proper disposal of surgical waste, including used supplies, instruments, and other materials, is a key responsibility of surgical technologists. They must adhere to strict protocols to ensure the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of these materials.
12. Providing Comfort and Support
Surgery can be an intimidating experience for patients, and surgical technologists often play a role in providing comfort and emotional support. They may answer questions, offer reassurance, and ensure that patients feel as comfortable as possible before and after surgery.
13. Responding to Emergencies
In the event of an emergency, such as a sudden change in the patient's condition or equipment malfunction, surgical technologists are trained to respond quickly and assist the surgical team in addressing the situation.
14. Maintaining Records
Accurate documentation is essential in the healthcare field. Surgical technologists are responsible for maintaining accurate records of the instruments used, supplies consumed, and any complications that arise during surgery. This documentation helps in evaluating the success of the procedure and ensures proper billing and reimbursement.
What Skills Do I Need to Become a Surgical Technologist?
Becoming a successful surgical technologist requires a unique combination of technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment. Here are the essential skills you'll need to excel in this role:
1. Technical Proficiency
A solid foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, and surgical procedures is fundamental. Surgical technologists must be well-versed in different types of surgeries, the instruments used, and the specific needs of each procedure.
2. Attention to Detail
The operating room demands meticulous attention to detail. From preparing instruments to ensuring a sterile environment, even the slightest oversight can have significant consequences. Surgical technologists must have a keen eye for accuracy.
3. Adaptability
The world of surgery is dynamic and ever-changing. Technologists need to be adaptable to new techniques, procedures, and technologies. Flexibility is essential to accommodate the varying needs of different surgeons and patients.
4. Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial when working alongside surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals. Surgical technologists need to convey information clearly, anticipate needs, and provide updates during procedures.
5. Dexterity
Surgical procedures require precise manual dexterity. Technologists should be adept at handling delicate instruments, sutures, and other equipment with precision, even in high-stress situations.
6. Sterilization and Infection Control
Maintaining a sterile environment is paramount. Surgical technologists must follow strict protocols for sterilizing instruments and setting up sterile fields to prevent infections and ensure patient safety.
7. Teamwork and Collaboration
The operating room is a collaborative environment where different healthcare professionals work together seamlessly. Surgical technologists need to be team players, contributing positively to the overall efficiency of the surgical team.
8. Problem-Solving Skills
Surgery can present unexpected challenges. Surgical technologists should be capable of quick thinking and problem-solving, especially when faced with equipment malfunctions or changes in the surgical plan.
9. Emotional Resilience
The nature of surgery can be emotionally demanding. Surgical technologists need to remain composed in high-pressure situations and manage any stress or emotional reactions that may arise.
10. Time Management
Surgeries have strict timelines. Surgical technologists must manage their time efficiently to ensure all preparations are completed before the procedure begins and that all steps are followed accurately.
11. Empathy and Patient Care
While technologists focus on technical aspects, they also interact with patients. Displaying empathy and providing emotional support to patients and their families helps create a more positive surgical experience.
12. Critical Thinking
Surgical technologists encounter diverse situations during surgeries. They need strong critical thinking skills to assess changing circumstances and make quick decisions that contribute to optimal patient outcomes.
If you're considering a career in this dynamic field, consider enrolling in the Surgical Technologist Bootcamp offered by Health Tech Academy. As an industry leader in accelerated education for aspiring surgical technologists, our program provides comprehensive training in all aspects of the profession.
