Surgical Technologists

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Maintain a proper sterile field during surgical procedures.
2. 02Count sponges, needles, and instruments before and after operation.
3. 03Scrub arms and hands and assist the surgical team to scrub and put on gloves, masks, and surgical clothing.
4. 04Provide technical assistance to surgeons, surgical nurses, or anesthesiologists.
5. 05Prepare patients for surgery, including positioning patients on the operating table and covering them with sterile surgical drapes to prevent exposure.
6. 06Hand instruments and supplies to surgeons and surgeons' assistants, hold retractors and cut sutures, and perform other tasks as directed by surgeon during operation.
7. 07Prepare, care for, and dispose of tissue specimens taken for laboratory analysis.
8. 08Wash and sterilize equipment, using germicides and sterilizers.
9. 09Monitor and continually assess operating room conditions, including patient and surgical team needs.
10. 10Operate, assemble, adjust, or monitor sterilizers, lights, suction machines, or diagnostic equipment to ensure proper operation.
11. 11Prepare dressings or bandages and apply or assist with their application following surgery.
12. 12Clean and restock operating room, gathering and placing equipment and supplies and arranging instruments according to instructions, such as a preference card.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading