Surgical Technologist

Scope of Practice

Role Description 

• Limited direct patient care under direct supervision of RN. Activities may include:
  • Handling instruments, supplies, and equipment essential to the surgical procedure
  • Displaying understanding of the procedure being performed and anticipating the needs of the surgeon
  • Maintaining the sterile field
  • Cleaning and preparing instruments for disinfection and terminal sterilization
  • Assisting other members of team with room turnover and terminal cleaning
  • Assisting in the preparation of the procedure room for the next patient
   

Work Setting 

• Surgical clinics
• Hospitals
• Ambulatory surgery centers

Required Education / Preparation 

• High School graduate
• On the job training may be available at healthcare facilities

Preferred Education / Preparation 

• Graduate of an accredited surgical technology program.

Professional Development

Career Preparation 

• AORN - Who We Are 
• View sample resumes 
• Attend career days at healthcare facilities
• Shadow an OR nurse
• Review literature (Associate membership includes the AORN Journal)

 Education 

• Clinical experiences in perioperative nursing
• Periop 101: A Core Curriculum™ may be offered through the school or in conjunction with local hospitals.
• The Perioperative Nursing Course Directory is an online database of perioperative programs available throughout the USA for nurses and student nurses who are interested in a career in perioperative nursing.

Resources 

• AORN associate membership 
• Professional organizations