Surgical technicians work under the supervision of a surgeon or physician and are responsible for tasks such as:
* Preparing the operating room and instruments
* Assisting with surgeries by holding retractors, passing instruments, and suctioning fluids
* Applying sterile dressings and bandages
* Monitoring the patient's vital signs
* Providing postoperative care
LPNs, also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are licensed healthcare professionals who provide a wide range of nursing care to patients in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities. LPNs can perform many of the same tasks as surgical technicians, but they have additional training and responsibilities, including:
* Administering medications
* Starting IVs
* Taking blood samples
* Performing physical examinations
* Developing and implementing patient care plans
* Educating patients and their families about their care
In order to become a surgical technician, a candidate must typically complete a one-year certificate program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and pass a national certification exam. LPNs must complete an approved LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam in order to practice.
Surgical technicians and LPNs are essential members of the healthcare team, but they have different roles and responsibilities. A surgical tech cannot work as an LPN without the additional education and training required for LPN licensure.