Surgical Technicians assist surgeons in operating rooms, and typically work under the supervision of a surgeon or surgical nurse. The Surgical Technician works with a team that includes a surgeon, anesthesiologist and nurses. They provide assistance before, during and after an operation.

Before the operation, the Surgical Technician assembles the equipment required for the operation, such as instruments, sterile drapes, and sterile fluids and solutions. They must also check all equipment to ensure it works correctly. The Surgical Technician is also involved in preparing patients for surgery and transporting them to the operating room. During the surgery, they observe the patient’s vital signs, ensure that each surgeon has the equipment they need, provide other surgical assistance such as cutting sutures and holding retractors to keep the incision site open, and help prepare laboratory specimens. After the operation, they clean equipment and restock any supplies used.

Surgical Technicians should have good manual dexterity, be reliable and responsible, and must be able to follow surgical protocols to ensure that the operating room and equipment remains sterile. They should be able to cope well with the pressure and demands of working in an operating room.