Most surgical technicians, also called surgical technologists, are employed at hospitals. Others work at outpatient care centers or physician private practices. Technicians work as part of an operating team alongside surgeons, assistant physicians, anesthesiologists and registered nurses. A surgical tech places all the necessary instruments and supplies in the operating room, and makes sure all diagnostic equipment is functioning properly. During the operation, the technician hands instruments to the surgeon, monitors the patient's vital signs, and mains the supply of fluids such as blood and plasma.
Surgical technician training programs require a high school diploma or successful completion of the General Educational Development tests. Two or three high school math and science classes, as well as good writing and communication skills, provide a solid background. Coursework includes anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, microbiology, nursing assistant training, operating room techniques and surgical procedures, along with patient care. Some students can obtain scholarships from the Foundation for Surgical Technology based on academic merit and financial need.
Many surgical technician programs include supervised clinical training in the program, providing hands-on experience for the student and an excellent credential for a resume. Another avenue is an unpaid internship at a hospital, which can count for college credit as well as valuable experience.
Although certification is voluntary, it offers much better chances for job placement and advancement. Certification requires passing a state-administered written test after a certain specific level of training or experience.
Most surgical technicians have a regular full-time work schedule, but it may include nights and weekends. They may be on call on a rotating basis. Surgical technicians can be standing for many hours, and must cope with unpleasant sights and odors. Accuracy and organization are important, along with the ability to stay calm during stressful situations. Technicians are expected to keep up with important advances in their field through continuing education.
The median annual salary in 2006 was about $36,000 for surgical technicians, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. About 80 percent earned between $25,500 and $51,000. Job growth is expected to be faster than average through 2012 because the aging population will need increasing medical care.
Once employed, a technician can learn to specialize in neurosurgery, orthopedic, organ transplants, or another type of surgery, and can then earn a higher salary. Many surgical technicians advance to surgical first assistant, where they work more closely with surgeons and have a more hands-on role during operations.