What does a surgical technologist do?
Surgical technologists are allied health professionals and essential members of the surgical team. Duties include preparing the operating room for surgery, helping surgeons during surgery by passing instruments and other sterile supplies, helping to prepare patients for surgery, and other important patient safety duties. Most surgical technologists perform their responsibilities on their feet and work in hospitals.
Surgical technologists typically need an associate degree, and some employers may require certification such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). For assistance in locating a Surgical Technology program, please visit our Resources page or contact us.
Career advancement: Surgical technologists can choose to advance their career by a move into leadership, by becoming post-secondary teachers in the field, or by expanding into other areas of health care such as nursing.