Surgical Technologist
Career Description
Surgical technologists work as members of the surgical team to prepare operating rooms for surgery, assist during surgery and perform the proper postoperative procedures. Technologists ensure the operating room is prepared for surgery and all instruments are sterilized properly. They also ensure patients are ready for surgery by preparing the incision site, transporting the patient to the operating room, positioning patients for surgery and assisting the surgical team during and after the procedure.
A scrub technologist assists surgeons by handing them instruments during the surgery and ensuring the immediate surgical field remains sterile.
A circulating technologist is the unsterile member of the surgical team who is responsible for managing the operating room. Circulating technologists dispense sterile items to the scrub technologist, monitor supplies, keep records of the procedure, assist anesthesia personnel and perform other functions.
Annual Salary
| Entry: $28,309 | Mean: $35,776 | Experienced: $43,243 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Hourly Wage
| Entry: $13.61 | Mean: $17.20 | Experienced: $20.79 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Academic Requirements
Usually, a high school diploma is a prerequisite for admission to these programs, which may be offered through community and junior colleges, hospitals and vocational-technical institutions. The length of training ranges from nine months to 24 months, depending on if a certificate, diploma or associate’s degree is awarded.
Schools
Colorado Technical University North Kansas City
816/472-7400
High Tech Institute
866/502-2627
Penn Valley Community College
816/759-4000
Wright Business College
800/555-4003
Professional Associations
National
Association of Surgical Technologists
State
Missouri Assembly - Association of Surgical Technologists
Additional Information
Learn More About Technical Instrumentation
Read Personal Accounts of Current Surgical Technologists
