Almost everyone is mighty familiar with the word “Scrubs”. It became famous by the medical comedy series from ABC Studios. Technically, a “scrub “technician or a surgical technologist is an allied health professional who work in a team. They provide surgical care to patients. To become a surgical technologist, one needs a high school diploma and needs to do an accredited program including theory and practical clinical training which could be available in Universities, hospitals, community colleges and vocational schools. The duration of the program may range from 1 to 2 Years. Once qualified a whole vista of opportunities open up for a surgical technician. He or she could opt to work in a variety of medical organizations, which include a General Hospital, Physicians offices, Outpatient care centres, Dental Clinics, and Specialty Hospitals.
The duties and responsibilities of a surgical technologist spans over the three phases of patient care in the case of a surgery. The three phases are clearly demarcated as this involves a whole gamut of duties starting with the preparation of the operation room or the organizing the equipment that will be required during the surgery and making sure they are sterile. Make sure all the necessary supplies for the procedure are present and also checking on non sterile equipment. It help the surgeons and other team members prepare to enter the sterile area. It is advisable to begin the process of the surgery by removing the sterile drapes
Here are some tips that will be helpful for each technologist. It is advisable to maintain a high level of sterility through the process of the surgery. Assisting the surgeon and his team during the surgery by passing the required equipments and supplies the procedure calls for. To prepare the medication that may be necessary during the procedure. Handling suction machines, lights and other equipment is the important to consider. Other thing you must consider is specimen care/disposal of specimens and dressing Application.
In the postoperative phase it is necessary to maintain a high level of sterility in the room until the patient is prepared for transportation. This preparation involves collection of all equipments, and supplies and instruments used in the operative procedure and the undertaking the necessary, maintenance for them. Then only transport the patient safely back to the recovery room. Hence the main role of a surgical technician is in the Surgery and OR procedures.
There is a role for the ST as the Circulating Surgical Technician. His or her duties involve prep and interview a patient before the surgical procedure. Open sterile instruments from their packing to hand to surgical assistants. Note down a written account of the surgical procedure. Manage specimens and organize for additional equipment or supplies needed during the procedure.
To be successful as a surgical technologist, one has to evolve in his or her role and adapt to work with precision to detail accuracy and anticipate a number of activities. It is of utmost importance to develop a trait of staying calm and collected even under the most stressful situations. Performing smoothly in an emergency environment is a prerequisite. A sense of empathy to the patient, a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to the chosen profession and inherent need to be helpful and compassionate has to be a second nature of for a surgical technologist professional.
If you’re interested in a fast-paced, rewarding career as a surgical technologist, then contact us today at the American College of Healthcare and Technology.