Training and Education

A surgical technician must be trained through a formal program that is offered through a vocational school, community college, junior college, university, or hospital. According to the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), there were 400 accredited surgical technician programs in the United States in 2005.

Typical coursework necessary to become a surgical technician includes physiology, anatomy, pharmacology, microbiology, medical terminology, and professional ethics. Other courses may include sterile techniques, patient safety during surgery, and surgical procedures. A typical surgical technician program can last anywhere from nine to 24 months.

Job Description

A surgical technician is a person that assists the surgeon during operations. As such, the surgical is supervised by registered nurses, surgeons, and other surgical personnel while still remaining a member of the operating team.

Prior to the surgery, the surgical technician is responsible for preparing the operating room by setting up the sterile and nonsterile equipment and instruments. Surgical technicians also sets up the sterile drapes and solutions. The surgical technician may also be responsible for getting the patient prepped for surgery, which usually includes shaving, washing, and disinfecting the area where the incision is to be made. The surgical technician then transports the patient to the operating room and helps get him or her in position on the operating table.

After getting the patient to the operating the table, the surgical technician covers him or her with sterile surgical drapes. Then, the surgical technician checks the patient’s vital signs and charts. During surgery, the surgical technician hands instruments to the surgeo and may also hold retractors, count sponges and other supplies, and cut sutures.

Salary and Job Outlook

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for a surgical technician are expected to grow faster than the average occupation. This is largely due to the fact that the number of surgeries necessary over the next several years is expected to increase. The Bureau reports that the median annual salary for a surgical technician in 2004 was $34,010.

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