Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists, formerly referred to as operating room technicians, perform a variety of tasks before, during, and following surgery. In the scrub, or sterile person role, the technologist is the surgical staff member who works closest with the surgeon or surgeons performing the surgery. Duties include 1) helping the surgeon put on gloves and gown; 2) placing instruments, supplies, and equipment on sterile tables and stands; and 3) passing instruments and supplies, assisting in the retraction of tissues, cutting sutures, and operating special equipment. In the role of the circulator, or unsterile person, the surgical technologist prepares the patient for surgery and maintains surgical instruments and specimens. Surgical technologists must work with speed, accuracy, and concentration, and have good manual dexterity. They must work well under pressure, stand for long hours, and respond effectively to emergency situations.

Work Environment
Surgical technologists work with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and registered nurses in hospitals, physicians' offices, invasive diagnostic facilities, and surgical centers that have operating-, delivery-, or emergency-room facilities. Some workplaces require 24-hour coverage or expect on-call assignments for emergencies.

Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for surgical technologists in Texas is expected an annual growth rate of 28 percent.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Training programs range from eight to 12 months and up to two years, after which an associate degree is earned. The curriculum may include courses in medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, introduction to surgical technology, surgical specialties, surgical techniques, sterile techniques, and anesthesia. Some surgical technologists are trained on the job.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $25,000 - $42,000.

Educational Programs
Certificate Programs/Associate Degree
Alamo Community College District
Amarillo College
Austin Community College
Baptist Health System
Del Mar College
El Centro College
El Paso Community College
Houston Community College System
Kilgore College
Odessa College
St. Philip's College
San Jacinto College - Central
South Plains College
Tarrant County JC - Northeast
Temple College
Texas State Technical College - Harlingen
Trinity Valley Community College

Professional Associations
Association of Surgical Technologists
7108-C South Alton Way, Ste. 100
Englewood, CO 80112-2106
800/637-7433 or 303/694-9130
Fax: 303/694-9169