Surgical Technologists

A Day in the Life

As a surgical technologist, you are a critical member of the surgical team. You ensure patient safety and directly assist surgeons, nurses, and other team members during surgery. You maintain the sterile field and set up instruments and equipment.

A typical day might begin with preparing and transporting the patient to the operating room while offering calm reassurance. You ready surgical instruments and gown and glove the surgical team. During the procedure, you pass instruments to the surgeon and suction incisions as directed. You constantly monitor the sterile field to maintain patient safety.

Depending on your team role, you may spend more time with patients, directly assisting with surgery, or maintaining the operating room. Your major duties are likely to be:

• Maintaining the sterile field in the operating room
• Stocking and arranging surgical instruments
• Assisting surgeons and nurses during procedures
• Taking patients to and from the operating room
• Preparing patients for surgery

If you are a circulating surgical technologist, you'll have more interaction with patients. You'll prepare patients for procedures, see to their comfort, and provide reassurance. In addition, you'll commonly perform these duties:

• Verifying patient charts and paperwork
• Procuring and maintaining supplies
• Recording information during surgery
• Handling specimens

As a second assisting surgical technologist, you'll directly assist in the surgical procedure. During surgery, you'll follow the surgeon's direction in performing tasks that don't involve manipulating tissue. Tasks include:

• Holding instruments
• Cutting sutures
• Suctioning surgical sites
• Dressing closed incisions

As you gain experience, the field offers opportunities to specialize in specific areas of surgery such as cardiovascular and obstetrics. If you work in an outpatient setting, you'll assist with lower-risk procedures such as cataract surgery.