A surgical technologist (also known as a surgical tech or scrub tech) is a member of the surgical team who is responsible for preparing the operating room, setting up instruments and equipment, and assisting the surgeon during the procedure. They typically do not perform surgical procedures themselves, but instead act as an assistant to the surgeon.
A surgical first assistant (SFA) is also a member of the surgical team, but they have additional responsibilities and training. An SFA is responsible for performing surgical procedures, under the direct supervision of a surgeon. They may also assist in positioning the patient, retracting tissue, and providing hemostasis (control of bleeding) during the procedure. SFAs are typically nurses, physician assistants, or surgical technologists who have received additional training and certification.
In summary, the main difference between a surgical technologist and a surgical first assistant is that the latter is trained and allowed to perform surgical procedures, while the former is not.
What does a surgical technologist do?
A surgical technologist (also known as a surgical tech or scrub tech) is a member of the surgical team who is responsible for preparing the operating room, setting up instruments and equipment, and assisting the surgeon during the procedure. Their responsibilities include but not limited to:
Preparing the operating room by setting up instruments, equipment, and sterile drapes
Assisting the surgeon during the procedure by passing instruments, holding retractors, and performing other tasks as needed
Maintaining a sterile field during the procedure
Preparing and handling surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment
Counting sponges, needles, and instruments before and after the procedure
Preparing the patient for surgery by cleaning and disinfecting the surgical site
Following all surgical procedures, protocols and standards to ensure patient safety
Helping to move the patient to the recovery room after the procedure.
Surgical technologist are also responsible for maintaining equipment and stocking supplies, as well as keeping accurate records of surgical procedures. They may also be responsible for training new staff members and maintaining their own continuing education.
Surgical technologist vs. surgical first assistant: Job duties
The main difference in job duties between a surgical technologist and a surgical first assistant is that the latter is responsible for performing surgical procedures, while the former is not.
Job duties of a surgical technologist include:
Preparing the operating room by setting up instruments, equipment, and sterile drapes
Assisting the surgeon during the procedure by passing instruments, holding retractors, and performing other tasks as needed
Maintaining a sterile field during the procedure
Preparing and handling surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment
Counting sponges, needles, and instruments before and after the procedure
Preparing the patient for surgery by cleaning and disinfecting the surgical site
Following all surgical procedures, protocols and standards to ensure patient safety
Helping to move the patient to the recovery room after the procedure.
Job duties of a surgical first assistant include:
Performing surgical procedures, under the direct supervision of a surgeon
Assisting in positioning the patient, retracting tissue, and providing hemostasis (control of bleeding) during the procedure
Assisting the surgeon during the procedure by passing instruments, holding retractors, and performing other tasks as needed
Maintaining a sterile field during the procedure
Preparing and handling surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment
Counting sponges, needles, and instruments before and after the procedure
Preparing the patient for surgery by cleaning and disinfecting the surgical site
Following all surgical procedures, protocols and standards to ensure patient safety
Helping to move the patient to the recovery room after the procedure.
It’s worth noting that both Surgical technologist and Surgical first assistant work under the direct supervision of a surgeon and must follow all surgical procedures, protocols, and standards to ensure patient safety.