subject: Surgical Technologist Schools: Becoming Part of the Surgical Team [print this page] Surgical Technologist Schools: Becoming Part of the Surgical Team
If you are considering a career as a surgical technologistoften referred to as a scrub, or operating room technicianthen you need to research surgical technologist schools. Working as a surgical technologist makes you part of a surgical team as you work with the surgeon, nurses, and anesthesiologist.
The surgical technologist sets up the operating room. They sterilize the equipment and instruments. They make sure all of the equipment is assembled and working properly. Next, they help prepare the patients for surgery. This can include bathing the patient and even shaving and sterilizing the surgical site. The patient is transported to surgery by the surgical technologist. The technologist transports them to the operating table and gets them ready for the surgeon to arrive. The technologist assists the surgeon and the other members of the team to get their gloves and gowns on. They monitor the patient, check the chart and the vital signs.
Once the surgery begins, the surgical technologist hands out the supplies and the instruments. They also hold instruments, such as retractors or suction machines. They may help cut sutures, and manage other instruments needed for the procedure. Any specimens generated by the surgery must be cared for and their arrival at the laboratory ensured. This is the responsibility of the surgical technologist.
Once the operation ends, the surgical technologist assists with the transfer of the patient into the recovery room. They also clean up the operating room and get it restocked and ready for the next surgery.
Surgical technologist schools help you prepare for an important role in the health care field. Be aware you are training for a physically demanding position. You will stand for long periods of time. You are also exposed to communicable diseases, as well as unpleasant smells, sights, and sounds. This is not a position for the squeamish. The work hours are typically stable, although there may be times you are asked to work weekends and holidays.
Most surgical technologist schools will take about twenty-four months to complete and at the conclusion of the training you will receive an associate's degree. Coursework for this field of study will include pharmacology, physiology, anatomy, microbiology, ethics, and terminology. The handling of instruments and sterilization will also be topics of study. Certification is required to gain employment as a surgical technologist.
Possible candidates for this career field need to be possess good dexterity and the ability to think quickly on their feet. Organization and orderliness are important characteristics. Emotional stability is important as this can be an emotionally taxing field.
Ongoing education will be required as a part of this position. The job outlook is very good and finding a position should be fairly easy. This is a job that one can work anywhere in the country.
Attending surgical technologist schools allows you to prepare for a rewarding career inside the health care field. When you are researching schools, be sure to look into the following:
