Surgical Tech
Job description, Salary, Resume, and Interview Questions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WHAT DOES A Surgical Tech DO?
Surgical Technologists play a critical role in the operating room by assisting surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff during surgeries. This position involves preparing surgical instruments, maintaining sterile fields, and ensuring the proper handling and setup of surgical equipment. Surgical Techs also assist with patient positioning, manage surgical supplies, and ensure that all procedures are followed according to medical and safety protocols.
Successful Surgical Technologists possess excellent organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments. They demonstrate proficiency in surgical instruments, patient care protocols, and infection control procedures. Their ability to stay calm and efficient in high-stress situations ensures patient safety and contributes to the overall success of surgical procedures.
AVERAGE SALARY FOR Surgical Techs
Salaries can vary depending on factors such as geographical location, experience, educational background, and industry sector.
$98,800
Surgical Tech Job Descriptions
Below are four types of Surgical Tech job descriptions, detailing the range and expectations of the role:
Job Description:
We are seeking a skilled Surgical Technologist to assist in surgical procedures and maintain sterile environments in the operating room. The ideal candidate will be responsible for preparing surgical instruments, assisting the surgical team, and ensuring all aspects of the operation run smoothly.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments and supplies.
- Assist the surgical team during procedures by passing instruments, sutures, and other materials.
- Monitor the sterile field to ensure no contamination occurs.
- Maintain a clean and organized operating room before, during, and after surgeries.
- Help with patient positioning and prepare patients for surgery.
- Document and maintain records of the procedure and patient care.
Qualifications:
- Certification in Surgical Technology from an accredited program.
- Experience in an operating room or clinical setting preferred.
- Ability to handle stress and multitask in high-pressure environments.
- Strong knowledge of sterile techniques and surgical procedures.
Job Description:
We are seeking an experienced Surgical Tech specializing in Orthopedic procedures. This role focuses on assisting orthopedic surgeons during surgeries, preparing specialized instruments, and ensuring optimal patient care before, during, and after surgery.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare orthopedic instruments, implants, and supplies for surgery.
- Assist the orthopedic surgeon by passing instruments and managing the sterile field.
- Provide patient care, including positioning and prepping the surgical site.
- Maintain records of procedures and help manage orthopedic surgical materials.
- Communicate with the surgical team to ensure all necessary tools are available.
Qualifications:
- Certification in Surgical Technology with a focus on Orthopedic specialties.
- Experience in orthopedic surgery or a similar surgical setting.
- Knowledge of orthopedic instruments and equipment.
- Ability to work efficiently in a team-oriented, high-pressure environment.
Job Description:
We are seeking a skilled Pediatric Surgical Technologist to assist with surgeries involving children. The ideal candidate will have experience working with pediatric surgical teams and be able to provide exceptional patient care in the operating room.
Responsibilities:
- Prepare and sterilize instruments, ensuring they are appropriate for pediatric procedures.
- Assist pediatric surgeons by handing them instruments and managing the sterile field.
- Help position pediatric patients and ensure they are prepared for surgery.
- Maintain a clean and organized operating room, ensuring patient safety.
- Monitor patient status and document surgical details for medical records.
Qualifications:
- Certification in Surgical Technology, with experience in pediatric surgery preferred.
- Strong understanding of pediatric anatomy and surgical needs.
- Ability to stay calm and focused in stressful situations.
- Experience working with children in a healthcare setting is a plus.
Job Description:
We are looking for a skilled Surgical Technologist with expertise in Cardiothoracic procedures. The ideal candidate will assist surgeons during heart and lung surgeries, maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring all equipment is in place for complex surgeries.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with the preparation and sterilization of cardiovascular instruments and equipment.
- Ensure that the sterile field is maintained throughout cardiothoracic surgeries.
- Pass surgical instruments and supplies as needed during heart and lung surgeries.
- Assist with patient positioning and help monitor patient status during surgery.
- Ensure all equipment is functioning properly before and during the procedure.
Qualifications:
- Certification in Surgical Technology with a focus on Cardiothoracic surgery.
- Experience in cardiovascular or cardiothoracic surgery is highly preferred.
- Strong knowledge of specialized surgical instruments and equipment.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and collaborate with the surgical team.
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Candidate Certifications to Look For
Consider the following certifications and qualifications when evaluating candidates:
Earned after completing an accredited surgical technology program and passing the certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). This certification is essential for entry-level surgical technologists and required for employment in most healthcare settings.
Earned after obtaining CST certification and passing additional exams through the NBSTSA. This advanced-level certification qualifies surgical technologists to assist in surgeries directly, playing a critical role in the surgical team by handling instruments and assisting surgeons during procedures.
HOW TO HIRE A Surgical Tech
Securing a skilled Surgical Tech requires a strategic approach to identifying professionals with expertise in surgical procedures, excellent knowledge of sterilization techniques, and the ability to maintain a sterile and efficient operating room environment. Here are key strategies to help you hire top surgical technologist talent:
Comprehensive Job Descriptions: Clearly articulate the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for the role to attract candidates who meet the specific needs of your organization.
Surgical Technologist Competency Assessments: Use hands-on surgical procedure simulations, instrument handling exercises, and sterile technique scenarios to evaluate candidates’ proficiency in assisting during surgeries, maintaining a sterile field, and ensuring patient safety throughout the procedure.
Focus on Detail Orientation: During interviews, ask questions designed to assess candidates’ attention to detail and their methods for ensuring accuracy in patient care and documentation.
Highlight Opportunities for Growth: Emphasize any potential for career advancement or skill development within the organization to attract candidates who are looking for long-term opportunities.
Leverage Healthcare-Specific Platforms: Post job listings on platforms dedicated to healthcare roles, such as those catering to phlebotomists, nurses, doctors, medical technicians, and laboratory professionals, to connect with a broader pool of qualified candidates.
Sample Interview Questions
- How do you ensure accuracy and precision when preparing surgical instruments and assisting with procedures?
- Describe your experience with surgical tracking systems and operating room management tools. Which features do you rely on most?
- What strategies do you use to manage multiple tasks and equipment during complex surgeries, especially in high-pressure settings?
- Can you share an example of a time when you encountered a challenge during a procedure? How did you handle it?
- How do you stay organized when preparing surgical tools, assisting the surgeon, and maintaining sterile conditions during surgery?
- Describe a challenging interaction you’ve had with a surgeon or medical team member. How did you handle it to ensure smooth operation during the procedure?
- How do you maintain patient confidentiality and securely handle sensitive surgical data?
- In your opinion, what is the most complex aspect of assisting during surgeries, and how do you manage it?
- How do you approach quality assurance in your work, particularly in maintaining a sterile field and minimizing surgical errors?
- What steps do you take to stay updated on new surgical techniques, safety protocols, or technological advancements in the operating room?
THREE EASY WAYS TO COMPLETE YOUR TEAM
TemPositions can assist you in finding the right fit for your team. Here are three ways to complete your team:
- Utilize TemPositions, a specialized staffing agency.
- Post your job on leading job boards.
- Leverage your professional network in the office sector. TemPositions offers access to a network of pre-screened and qualified professionals, saving time and ensuring you find the right fit for your team.
NEED HELP HIRING A Surgical Tech
Discover how TemPositions can elevate your hiring process with tailored staffing solutions. Contact us today to experience a partnership that transforms your recruitment strategy and connects you with top-tier talent.
