Allied Health - Surg Tech-OR

Surgical Technologist (Surgical Tech)

A Surgical Technologist, also known as a Scrub Tech or Operating Room Technician, is a healthcare professional who assists in surgical operations. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other medical personnel to ensure surgeries are carried out safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

• Preoperative Duties: Prepare operating rooms by setting up surgical instruments, sterile drapes, and equipment. Ensure all tools are sterilized and functioning properly. Assist in prepping patients for surgery (e.g., sterilizing the incision site).
• Intraoperative Duties: Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon during procedures. Maintain a sterile field to avoid contamination. Anticipate the surgeon's needs and respond promptly. Operate or assist with equipment such as suction machines or retractors.
• Postoperative Duties: Count sponges, needles, and instruments to ensure none are retained in the patient. Dispose of used supplies and sterilize equipment. Assist with applying dressings and transferring patients to recovery.
• Administrative/Support Tasks: Maintain surgical logs and inventory. Order and restock supplies. Support operating room cleanliness and safety protocols.

Qualifications:

• Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program (typically a diploma, certificate, or associate degree).
• Certification through NBSTSA (National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting) or NCCT (National Center for Competency Testing) preferred or required based on state.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification often required.
• Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Licensing and Certification Requirements by State (U.S.):

• State Certification or Licensure Requirement Mandatory Certification Texas Certification required (CST through NBSTSA). Indiana Must be certified unless grandfathered. South Carolina Certification required. Tennessee Must be certified or currently enrolled in an accredited program. Idaho Certification required. Nevada Must be registered and certified. New Jersey Must be certified (CST) unless grandfathered. Oregon Registration and certification required.
• Voluntary or Not Required California Not required, but many employers prefer it. Florida Not required by state law. New York Not required, but employers often require certification. Illinois Not mandatory, but preferred by employers. Georgia Not required, certification preferred.
• Note: Always check with the state licensing board or health department for the most current regulations, as requirements may change.