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Surgical technologists work closely with surgeons,
anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel
to deliver appropriate patient care before, during, and after surgery.
They are responsible for preparing the operating
room by selecting and opening sterile instruments and assembling,
adjusting, and checking non-sterile equipment. They provide physical
and emotional support for the patients prior to the surgery. They
also help position the patients, connect and apply the surgical
equipment, and prepare the incision site.
Surgical
Technologist
During surgery, surgical technologists are
responsible for using sterilizers, lights, suction machines, electrosurgical
units and diagnostic equipment, and also maintaining the sterile
field between the patient and the surgical team. Before, during,
and after the surgery they are also responsible for counting the
sponges, needles, and instruments to ensure there are still the
same number as before the surgery. They label and handle sterile
specimens, apply sterile dressings, and help transfer the patients
to recovery. Surgical technologists must be able to perform under
pressure in stressful and emergency situations. They must also possess
a stable temperament, be very responsible, patient, detail-oriented,
quick, yet accurate, and have a great deal of manual dexterity and
physical stamina.
Areas of Specialization
Surgical technologists may specialize in a particular type of surgery
such as open heart surgery, neurosurgery, organ transplantation,
plastic surgery, and orthopedic surgery.
Work Environment
Surgical technologists work with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and
registered nurses in hospitals, physicians' offices, and surgical
centers that have operating room, delivery room, or emergency room
facilities. The work environment is usually well-lighted and cool.
Most surgical technologists work 40-hour weeks. There are part-time
schedules available. However, most workplaces require 24-hour coverage
or expect on-call assignments for emergencies.
Job Outlook
The number of surgical technologists employed in Florida in 2006
was 5,439. It is projected that in 2014 there will be 6,560, an
annual average growth rate of 2.6 percent or an annual increase
of ~140 positions.
Advancement
With experience and/or further education, surgical technologists
may advance to sales positions with surgical supply companies, inventory
control management, surgical assistants, and surgical nurses.
Length of Training/Requirements
Training programs may vary from eight months to two years. The curriculum
may include courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology,
introduction to surgical technology, surgical specialties, surgical
techniques, sterile techniques, pharmacology and anesthesia, psychology,
biology, microbiology, computing, medical law and robics.
Licensure/Certification
No special license is required for surgical technologists; however,
most hospitals require certification. Surgical technologists can
become Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) by completing a CAAHEP-accredited
surgical technology program and passing an examination given by
the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologists
(LCC-ST). Surgical technologists must renew their certification
every four years. They may participate in continuing education hours
or retake the certifying examination.
Updated: 2009 |
