Overview
An O.R Technician, known more formally as a surgical technologist, is a member of the surgical team in an operating room. The O.R. Technician works under direct supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, and other operating room staff.
It is the O.R. technician's responsibility to assist as needed during surgical procedures. Typical responsibilities include preparation and draping of the operating suite prior to surgical procedures; the assembling of both sterile and non-sterile equipment; prepping patients for surgical procedures by shaving and disinfecting incision sites; and transporting of patients to the operating suite. During surgery the technician may pass instruments as requested; count sponges, needles, etc.; assist in applying dressings; and prepare and care for laboratory specimens. Other duties may include transportation of patients to the recovery area and restocking of supplies
Training
O.R. or Surgical Technicians generally receive training through a formal educational program. These programs may be found at colleges, vocational schools, the military, and some hospitals. Training programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and typically last from nine months to two years. Voluntary professional certification may be obtained by successfully completing a CAAHEP accredited program and passing a national certification examination. The certified technician may use the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) designation.
Another option for certification is through successful passing of an exam given by the National Center for Competency Testing. To qualify the candidate must either complete training from an accredited program; complete a 2 year hospital based on the job training program; or acquire seven years working in the field. The designation for certification through this method is Tech in Surgery-Certified, TS-C (NCCT). Both methods of certification will require on-going continuing education requirements and license renewal.
Job Prospects
The majority of O.R. Technicians are employed in hospitals, usually either in the operating room or the labor and delivery area. Non hospital jobs can be found in outpatient clinics and ambulatory surgery centers. Most employers will require certification as a condition of employment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the median salary for O.R. Technicians was $36,080 in May 2006. The job prospects for O.R. Technicians is very good with jobs expected to grow at a rate much faster than average through 2016.
Related Reference Materials
Surgical Anatomy and Physiology for the Surgical Technologist
Surgical Technology for the Surgical Technologist: A Positive Care Approach
CST Exam Secrets Study Guide: CST Test Review for the Certified Surgical Technologist Exam
