Surgical Technologist

Surgical Technologists work in the operating room helping to provide a safe, sterile environment and adding to the efficiency of the operating room team. These technologists check charts, position patients on the operating table, and provide emotional support. Surgical technologists prepare surgical instruments and materials using sterile techniques.  Also called operating room technicians (ORTs), surgical technologists prepare the skin and help apply equipment and monitoring devices. They maintain the sterility of the operating room by helping the surgical staff scrub, dress, and put on gloves and gowns. During an operation, surgical technologists operate lights, suction machines, and diagnostic equipment. They pass instruments, keep the operative site visible, apply sterile dressings, and prepare specimens for the lab.

Places of Employment
Hospitals

High School/General Preparation
High School diploma required

Special Education/Training
College programs range from certificates to Associate of Science degrees

School
Mount Hood Community College
www.mhcc.cc.or.us/academics/catalog/programs/surgtc.htm
www.mhcc.cc.or.us
morfittj@mhcc.cc.or.us

Southwestern Oregon Community College
www.southwestern.cc.or.us/academics/course_descript/surgical.html
www.southwestern.cc.or.us

Licensure, Certification, and Registration
Association of Surgical Technologists sets standards for Certified Surgical Technologists.
www.ast.org

Professional Organization
Association of Surgical Technologists
www.ast.org

© Copyright 2002 Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems