The program seeks to:

How the operating room works

Successful surgical procedures require a group effort. It involves a team of competent, caring professionals and a great deal of teamwork in the operating room (OR). With their masks on, the team members all look the same. They do, of course, have different responsibilities. For more information go to www.ast.org

Surgical Technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. This allied health profession was developed during World War II when there was a critical need for assistance in performing surgical procedures and a shortage of qualified personnel to meet that need. Individuals were educated specifically to assist in surgical procedures. From that need, the profession of surgical technology has grown to meet the continuing demand for well-educated, highly skilled, and versatile men and women who work with the surgeon and other skilled professionals to deliver the highest possible level of patient care.

Role Definitions and Qualifications

The surgical technologist works under medical supervision to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures. This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room or environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique and combines the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures, and implementation tools and technologies to facilitate a physician's performance of invasive therapeutic and diagnostic procedures.

Responsibility of a CST

Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) often function as the sterile member of the surgical team who passes instruments, sutures, and sponges during surgery. After "scrubbing," they don gown and gloves and prepare the sterile setup for the appropriate procedure. CSTs must also be able to anticipate the needs of surgeons, pass instruments and provide sterile items in an efficient manner.

Under the supervision of the surgeon, CSTs may also be involved in holding retractors or instruments, sponging or suctioning the operative site, or cutting suture material. They may also be involved in preparing and applying sterile and non-sterile dressings. After surgery, they may prepare the operating room for the next patient.

CSTs also may perform the role of the circulator, which is a nonsterile position. The circulator is not gowned and gloved during the surgical procedure and is available to respond to the needs of the members of the sterile field. The circulator is responsible for keeping the written account of the surgical procedure and may participate in the counting of needles, sponges, and instruments.

With additional specialized training or education, CSTs also may act in the role of surgical first assistant. The surgical first assistant provides aid in exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other technical functions that will help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient.

Personal Characteristics

The ability to perform under pressure in stressful and emergency situations is a quality essential to CSTs. A stable temperament, a strong sense of responsibility, considerable patience, and concern for order are required. Manual dexterity and physical stamina are vital. They must be able to work quickly, but accurately, and must be oriented to detail, yet able to integrate a number of activities according to priority. They must be keenly sensitive to the needs of the patient as well as to the needs of other members of the surgical team. Individuals who practice this profession have a strong desire to help others and make a valuable contribution to society.