Where Do Surgical Technologists Work?

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Years have passed with few regular people knowing about the mere existence of surgical technologists. Registered nurses, nurse anesthetists, radiology techs, and other entities are popular professions that are familiar to everyone. However, surgical technologists are not only hidden behind a mask; they are also hidden behind surgeons, back tables, patients, and many sets of double doors with limited access and big red warnings.

Hospitals

Few hospital operating rooms are complete without the prowess of the well-trained surgical technologist. He or she may be found in every invasive department. In the cardiac catheterization lab, they may be assisting the cardiologist or preparing a setup for an enthralling emergency. In labor and delivery, they prepare for a vaginal delivery, tubal ligation, or C-sections; both scheduled and unscheduled.

In the operating room, surgical technologists play an extremely important role in preparation and performance of many surgical procedures. Few surgical techs are limited to one specialty. Hospital operating rooms demand a lot from these individuals because emergent problems in this department wait for no one. When emergencies happen, surgical techs are usually in the mainstream of solving problems, as well as cleaning up the mess.

Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Ambulatory surgery centers often specialize in particular types of procedures. Surgical technologists abound here because of their ability to flex into other positions. Most of these techs have been trained to sterilize instruments and order supplies or help the nurses with some of their duties in order to flow in teamwork atmospheres. Even though the pay scale may be a bit lower, the days aren’t as long, no weekends, and no call. This is quite attractive to many professionals who have young children or may be nearing retirement.

Private Offices and Clinics

Plastic surgeons often hire surgical technologists to work in private clinics. Surgical techs can take vital signs, do some charting, help with purchasing, sterilize instruments, suture small wounds or remove sutures, and many other tasks that may be foreign to clerical staff. They may also shave or prep patients for surgical procedures or administer local anesthetics with direct supervision from the surgeon. Few facilities reap the benefits of surgical technologist like private offices and clinics.

Another group that uses surgical techs is that of oral surgeons. These knowledgeable techs are beneficial to oral surgery offices because of expertise with small power tools, instruments, surgical understanding and excellent people skills. Surgical techs also understand the importance of staying on schedule and that procedures and plans can change in a heartbeat. Being flexible is a must.

Surgical techs must have excellent stamina. Their work may be physically demanding, as they may be on their feet for long periods of time. Surgical technologists may also need to help move patients or lift heavy trays of medical supplies. At times, they may be exposed to communicable diseases and unpleasant sights, odors, and materials.

Ophthalmology is another specialty that surgical technologists may gravitate toward. Cataract surgery along with pediatric muscle repair, demand a special touch, special personality and special ability to handle tiny instruments with knowledge and skill. Eye surgeons usually have a keen respect for these professionals and welcome them into their operating arenas.