Review the Surgical Technology policy manual for more program specific information.
Surgical technologists, also called scrubs, surgical technicians or operating room technicians, assist in surgeries under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses or other surgical personnel. Surgical technologists are members of operating room teams, which most commonly include surgeons, anesthesiologists and circulating nurses.
Before an operation, surgical technologists help prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes and sterile solutions. They assemble both sterile and non-sterile equipment and ensure it's working properly.
Technologists also prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving and disinfecting incision sites. They transport patients to the operating room, help position them on the operating table and cover them with sterile surgical drapes. Technologists also observe patients' vital signs, and assist the surgical team with putting on sterile gowns and gloves.
More About Surgical Technology
During surgery, technologists pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgical assistants. They may hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies and instruments. Surgical technologists help prepare, care for, and dispose of specimens taken for laboratory analysis and assist in applying dressings.
Some surgical technologists operate sterilizers, lights or suction machines, and assist with diagnostic equipment. Surgical technologists may help transfer patients to the recovery room following surgery and clean and restock the operating room.