Surgical Technician Career Guide

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Overview

Surgical Technicians, sometimes called Operating Room Technicians, play a crucial role in the operating room by assisting surgical teams before, during and after procedures. Their expertise in sterilizing instruments, preparing surgical equipment and ensuring a sterile environment is essential for safe and successful surgeries.

Essential Job Functions:

Surgical Technicians work closely with surgeons, nurses and other healthcare professionals to prepare

Education

To become a Surgical Technician, candidates typically need a postsecondary certificate or diploma from an accredited surgical technology program. These programs are often available through technical schools, community colleges and hospitals. The educational curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience.

Qualifications

CST

Certifications

Licensing

Skills

Successful Staff and Travel Surgical Technicians possess a strong understanding of surgical procedures, sterile techniques and operating room protocols. They have excellent hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity and the ability to work as part of a team. Attention to detail, adaptability and effective communication skills are crucial for seamless collaboration with the surgical team.

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Responsibilities

Surgical Technicians prepare the operating room, sterilize and organize surgical instruments, assist with patient positioning and anticipate the surgeon's needs during procedures. They handle specimens for laboratory analysis, ensure all equipment is functional and properly positioned and assist with wound closure. Post-surgery, they help with cleaning and restocking the operating room.

Salary Insights

Salary guide

Compare your pay with the most up-to-date job market data using our comprehensive salary calculator.

Surgical Technician

$1,492-2,240/week

The average salary for a Surgical Technician is $1,857.31 per week.

Last updated on October 30, 2024. Based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

Pros & Cons

Becoming a Surgical Technician offers several advantages. The role is integral to the medical team and provides the satisfaction of contributing to positive patient outcomes. The demand for surgical technicians is projected to grow, offering stable job prospects. Additionally, the relatively short education period compared to other medical professions can appeal to those seeking a quicker entry into the healthcare

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