Working as a surgical tech can be an exciting healthcare career. The operating room (OR) is a place where precision, skill, and teamwork converge to save lives and improve patient outcomes. At the heart of this environment is the surgical technologist, often called a surgical tech, who plays a crucial role in ensuring surgeries run smoothly. If you’ve ever considered a career in healthcare that places you in the middle of the action, keep reading to learn more about the surgical tech job description, responsibilities, and how to embark on this rewarding path.

Become a surgical technician by training at Dorsey College

What is the Surgical Tech job description?

A surgical technologist’s job requirements involve supporting surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff in the operating room. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that surgeries are performed efficiently and safely. Surgical techs are responsible for tasks such as:

• Preparing the operating room for procedures.
• Sterilizing instruments and equipment.
• Ensuring surgical supplies are readily available.
• Assisting the surgical team by passing instruments during the procedure.
• Maintaining a sterile environment to minimize infection risks.

Overall, a surgical tech’s job description involves technical expertise, strong communication skills, and attention to detail.

The Day-to-Day Role of a Surgical Tech

The work of a surgical tech varies depending on the type of surgery and healthcare facility, but their responsibilities can generally be divided into three phases: before surgery, during surgery, and after surgery.

Before Surgery

Preparation is key in the operating room. Before a procedure begins, surgical techs:

• Review the surgical schedule to understand the requirements of each procedure.
• Sterilize instruments, equipment, and surgical areas to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
• Lay out tools and supplies on the sterile field for easy access during surgery.
• Assist in positioning patients and preparing them for surgery.

During Surgery

Once the procedure begins, surgical techs become integral members of the surgical team. They need to practice active listening, assertive communication, and they need to follow instructions from the surgeon or nurses in the room. Keeping a cool head under pressure is critical! Other surgical tech job requirements during surgery may include:

• Passing instruments and supplies to surgeons and assistants.
• Managing the sterile field to prevent contamination.
• Handling specimens for lab analysis as directed.
• Monitoring equipment and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

After Surgery

Post-operative duties are just as important as the work that happens before and during surgery. Once a procedure is completed, surgical techs may be responsible for:

• Cleaning and sterilizing instruments for future use.
• Restocking the operating room with necessary supplies.
• Assisting with patient transport from the OR.
• Preparing the room for the next procedure.

Skills and Traits of a Successful Surgical Tech

From what you’ve learned so far, it may come as no surprise that to work as a surgical tech, you’ll need a strong stomach and a cool head under pressure. Blood and other bodily fluids are common in the day-to-day life of a surgical technician. Stressful situations can also crop up where it’s important to remain calm and react appropriately.

In addition to these traits, surgical technologists must possess a unique blend of technical and interpersonal skills. To excel in this role, consider developing the following:

• Attention to Detail: Precision is critical in ensuring patient safety and surgical success.
• Strong Communication Skills: Collaborating effectively with surgeons and other team members is essential.
• Stamina and Dexterity: Surgical techs are often on their feet for long periods and must handle delicate instruments with precision.
• Commitment to Sterility Procedures: Maintaining a sterile field requires strict adherence to protocols that help keep patients safe.

Why Pursue a Career as a Surgical Tech?

• Growing Demand: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for surgical techs is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations, driven by advancements in medical technology and an aging population requiring more surgical procedures.1 This can make a surgical technician career a promising path to take.
• Career Satisfaction: Many surgical techs find their work fulfilling because they play a direct role in improving patients’ lives. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference. Every day is different, which makes it a great choice for people who don’t want a traditional 9-to-5 or monotonous job.
• Opportunities for Growth: With experience and additional education, surgical techs can specialize in areas such as cardiovascular surgery, pediatrics, organ transplantation, plastic surgery, and more.

Some surgical technicians can also advance to roles like surgical first assistants. Others pursue additional education to transition into other healthcare careers like nurses, paramedics, or even doctors.

How to Get Started as a Surgical Tech

• Education Path: Becoming a surgical tech typically requires completing an accredited surgical technology program and/or attending an accredited school. These programs provide the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the role. Expect to learn crucial skills in surgical care, surgical tools, and more.
• Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is a vital part of surgical tech training. Many programs include clinical experiences, where students work alongside professionals in real-world settings.
• Networking & Job Search: Building connections during clinical training and joining professional organizations like the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) can open doors to job opportunities.
• Continuing Education: Surgical techs can stay current with industry advancements by pursuing certifications and attending workshops or conferences. Staying up to date with changing medical breakthroughs and technology is a crucial part of the job.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Although this is a rewarding and exciting career path, working as a surgical tech can also be demanding. It’s important to keep these challenges in mind as you consider the job requirements of a surgical tech. Some of the top challenges include:

• Long Hours: Surgeries often extend beyond scheduled times as complications or changes come up during the procedure. Building physical endurance and managing time effectively can help.
• Emotional Stress: Witnessing critical or emergency situations can be emotionally taxing. Practicing self-care and seeking support when needed is crucial so you don’t “take work home with you” and become burned out.
• Maintaining Sterility: The responsibility of preventing contamination is immense. Attention to detail and adhering to training protocols are essential for success. There are no shortcuts in this job field.

A career as a surgical tech is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in healthcare while working in an exciting, fast-paced environment. With the right training and dedication, you can thrive in this essential role.

Pursue Surgical Technician Training in Michigan at Dorsey College

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a rewarding career as a surgical tech, consider enrolling at Dorsey College in Michigan. Our comprehensive surgical technician program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to prepare students for success in this dynamic field. Don’t wait to start your journey toward becoming a skilled surgical tech—contact us today to learn more about our Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program and how we can help you succeed.

1.https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/surgical-technologists.htm