Impact on Patient Lives
Surgical technologists have the satisfaction of knowing that their expertise and skills make a difference in the lives of patients undergoing surgery, making it a truly rewarding profession
Assisting Surgeons
They assist surgeons during operations by passing instruments and supplies and maintaining a sterile field, which is essential for successful surgical outcomes.
Dynamic Environment
The fast-paced nature of the operating room keeps the job engaging, with each day presenting new challenges and opportunities for learning and growth.
Career Advancement
Surgical technologists are lifelong learners who are exposed to numerous opportunities for career growth in healthcare education and management.
Patient Care
Surgical technologists play a crucial role in ensuring that the operating room is prepared, sterile, and equipped for surgical procedures, directly contributing to patient care
Specialization
Surgical technologists work in a variety of medical settings supporting a diverse array of medical specialties, including OB/GYN, pediatric care, urgent care, outpatient care, and more.
Surgical Technologist Educational Standards
Education
Program | Certificate or Degree Program Accreditation | Associate
Degree Program Accreditation | Associate
Degree Program Accreditation | Credential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Surgical Technologist | CAAHEP
or ABHES | CAAHEP
or ABHES | CST preferred to TS-C |
Surgical Technologist Pay
Hourly pay for a surgical technologist is determined based on both skills and experience. Typical compensation by percentile (Pct) for surgical technologists in the Columbus, OH Metro Statistical Area based on skills and experience:
Region | Entry Level 10th Pct | 25th Pct | Median Salary 50th Pct | 75th Pct | 90th Pct |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Columbus, OH | $19.98/hr | $24.00/hr | $28.29/hr | $30.92/hr | $33.55/hr |
May 2024
Surgical Technologist
Frequently Asked Questions
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A surgical technologist, also known as a scrub tech or an operating room technician, is a healthcare professional who assists surgeons, nurses and other surgical personnel in the operating room.
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Their primary responsibility is to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, sterile and properly equipped for surgical procedures.
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Surgical technologists can work in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, physician offices and other healthcare settings.
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Surgical technologists operate in a diverse array of medical specialties, enabling new surgical technologists to discover their preferred medical fields and work environment.
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To become a surgical technologist, you typically need to complete a formal education program, which may be a certificate, diploma or associate degree program in surgical technology. Some states may also require certification, which can be obtained by passing a national exam such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.
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This in-demand occupation is expected to grow as the healthcare industry continues to expand due to Central Ohio’s rapid population growth and aging population.
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With experience and additional training, they may advance to supervisory roles or specialize in specific surgical specialties.
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Important skills for surgical technologists include attention to detail, manual dexterity, strong communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure and a thorough understanding of surgical procedures and sterile techniques.
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A typical workday for a surgical technologist involves preparing the operating room for surgery, assisting during surgical procedures and ensuring that all equipment and supplies are properly sterilized and maintained.
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They may also collaborate with other members of the surgical team and provide support to patients before, during and after surgery.
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Surgical technologists play a key role in maintaining a sterile field during surgery to prevent infections.
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They follow strict protocols for sterilizing instruments, wearing appropriate protective gear and adhering to aseptic techniques.
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They also communicate effectively with other members of the surgical team to ensure that procedures are conducted safely and efficiently.
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While both surgical technologists and nurses provide patient care in medical settings, there are some key differences in their roles and responsibilities.
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Training is typically only one year to become a surgical technologist, and they focus on preparing operating rooms for surgery and assisting in surgical procedures.
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Nurses are licensed and registered by the state, requiring more advanced education and training by earning an associate’s degree (two-year program), allowing them to perform a broader range of clinical tasks and make independent nursing assessments and decisions.
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Chart Your Course
to This Career
Surgical technologists are truly at the heart of the action in the operating room. They play a critical role in ensuring that every operation runs smoothly, ultimately contributing to positive patient outcomes.
