Surgical

Surgical Technologists held about 54,000 jobs in 1998. Most are employed by hospitals, mainly in operating and delivery rooms. Others are employed in clinics and surgical centers, and in the offices of physicians and dentists who perform outpatient surgery. A few, known as private scrubs, are employed directly by surgeons who have special surgical teams like those for liver transplants.

The need for surgical technologists is growing and new opportunities are being created.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, an agency within the U.S. Department of Labor

What does a Surgical Technologist do?

Surgical technologists, also called surgical or operating room technicians, assist in operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. Before an operation, surgical technologists help set up the operating room with surgical instruments and equipment, sterile linens, and sterile solutions. They assemble, adjust, and check nonsterile equipment Surgical students getting hands-on experience in a "mock" surgical suite. to ensure it is working properly.

Surgical Technologists also prepare patients for surgery by washing, shaving, and disinfecting incision sites. They may also transport patients to the operating room, help position the patient on the operating table, and cover the patient with sterile surgical drapes.

During surgery, technologists pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon assistants. The surgical technologist 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 may help apply dressings. Some surgical technologists operate sterilizers, lights, or suction machines, and help operate diagnostic equipment. See www.bls.gov/oco/ocos106.htm