A day in the life of a surgical technologist

Starting the Day

My day starts with a check of my surgery case carts containing the supplies and instruments for my assigned surgeries. I must be sure I have everything the surgeons will need. Then, the team in my room discusses the cases to ensure we are all well-informed.

Next we begin to open our sterile supplies and instruments; I scrub in and set up the sterile field in an organized manner. Since we reviewed the surgery case, I know what the surgeon will need. Our nurse brings the patient into the OR with the anesthesia provider. We try to make the patient at ease and as comfortable as possible. We then do our "time out" which is a process involving all team members (CSTs, RN, surgeon and anesthesia provider) to ensure we have the right patient, operative site, procedure, instruments and supplies needed.

Time for Surgery

We start our surgery by applying sterile drapes around the surgical site, always watching and maintaining sterility. During the procedure, I anticipate the needs of the surgeon, handing instruments and providing exposure to help the case go along safely and smoothly.

After the procedure is complete I assist anestheisa in safely waking the patient. Then I take the instruments down to sterile processing to be reprocessed.

Sometimes you have to relieve in a case that is ongoing, while having to think on your feet, and quickly involve yourself in the procedure. I get a report from the CST I am relieving to make the transition safe and seamless.

Challenging but Rewarding

This job can be very challenging and demanding, but it also very rewarding and fulfilling to make such an impact on a patient's life. In this career you learn something new every day. The medical field is an ever changing field to be in. I highly recommend becoming a surgical technologist to anyone who wants an upbeat, exciting and fulfilling career.

"A surgeon only has two hands, and his or her focus is on the patient. Techs set up the room, keep equipment available and make sure the surgery progresses on time. They are also very helpful with dressing and sutures. A good tech is extremely organized and can anticipate what the surgeon will need next."