The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for surgical techs or technicians will increase by 24 percent over the next two decades, resulting in 21,000 new jobs.
Operating Room Set-Up
Before surgery begins, surgical techs ready the operating room by placing all necessary utensils, instruments and equipment within convenient reach of those who will use them during the procedure.
Pre-Procedure Patient Care
Before a procedure, surgical techs assist surgeons by cleaning and shaving the area of the patient that will be operated upon. Then, techs escort the patient to the operating room and get her in position for the procedure.
Early Surgery
Once a patient is in place, the surgical tech checks his vital signs, such as heartbeat, blood pressure, body temperature and reflexes. The tech looks over the patient's medical records for allergies or conditions the attending physician needs to know. The tech assists members of the surgical team with their masks, scrubs and gloves as necessary.
During Surgery
Surgical techs assist the medical room team in any way that is requested. This might include passing instruments, operating equipment, and handling biopsies and tissue samples.
After Surgery
After the procedure, the surgical tech will help the patient to her room, then return to the operating room to clean it. The tech is responsible for sterilizing instruments and returning equipment to its proper place.
