Get all the information you need to know about what a surgery tech is, what they do, and how to become one.
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Job Description
A surgery tech, also called a surgical technologist, is an allied health professional who works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel to ensure that operative procedures are carried out safely and effectively. Surgical techs play a critical role in the surgical team and are responsible for a variety of tasks, from preparing the operating room for surgery to handling the instruments during the procedure.
Duties of a Surgery Tech
Surgery techs are a vital part of the operating room team. They work alongside surgeons andregistered nurses to ensure that surgical procedures are carried out safely and efficiently.
The duties of a surgery tech vary depending on the type of surgical procedure being performed, but generally include preparing the operating room for surgery, sterilizing equipment, transporting patients to and from the operating room, and assisting surgeons during surgery. Surgery techs must have a basic understanding of human anatomy and physiology, as well as knowledge of surgical instruments and procedures.
In some cases, surgery techs may also be responsible for post-operative care, such as wound dressing and suture removal. Surgery techs typically work in hospital operating rooms, but may also work in outpatient surgery centers or doctor’s offices.
Education and Training
Surgery techs are allied health professionals who work alongside surgeons, registered nurses and other members of the surgical team. They are trained in a variety of surgical specialties and are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is clean and sterile, and that the surgical instruments are properly sterilized.
How to become a Surgery Tech
A surgery tech, also called a surgical technologist, is a member of the surgical team who works alongside surgeons, nurses and anesthesiologists during surgeries. Surgery techs prepare operating rooms, select and set up surgical instruments and equipment, and pass instruments to surgeons during surgeries. Many surgery techs also transport patients to operating rooms and care for them before and after surgeries.
To become a surgery tech, you will need to complete a formal education program. Most surgery tech programs take about nine months to a year to complete and lead to a certificate or an associate degree. You can also complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in surgical technology, although this is not required for most positions. In addition to completing an educational program, you will also need to pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Salary and Job Outlook
A surgery tech, or surgical technologist, is a medical professional who works alongside surgeons, nurses and other surgical staff during medical procedures. They are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is clean and sterile, as well as setting up and sterilizing medical equipment. Surgery techs typically work in hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers.
Job outlook for Surgery Techs
The job outlook for Surgery Techs is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median salary for a Surgery Tech is $48,700 per year, and the occupation is expected to grow by 7% from 2019-2029.