Surgical Assistants and Technologists

Written By Keandra Wilson

 1. OVERVIEW

Surgical assistants and technologists play crucial roles in the operating room. They help with surgical operations by preparing the operating room, sterilizing equipment, assisting surgeons, and ensuring a sterile environment. Surgical assistants work directly with the surgeons, whereas surgical technologists focus on preparing instruments, sterilization, and patient care.

  • 2024 Median Pay: $62,480 per year

  • Job Growth (2023–2033): 6% (Faster than average)

  • Typical Education: Postsecondary nondegree award (certificate or associate's degree)

  • Work Experience in a Related Occupation: None required

  • On-the-job Training: None required for technologists; surgical assistants may receive additional on-the-job training

  • Number of Jobs (2023): 134,000

  1. Role Breakdown by Level

Entry-Level Role: Surgical Technologist

    • Job Titles: Surgical Technologist, Operating Room Technician

    • Education: Postsecondary nondegree award or associate’s degree from an accredited program in surgical technology.

    • Experience: No prior experience needed; on-the-job training is often provided.

    • Certifications: Certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (CST) or the National Center for Competency Testing (TS-C). CPR or BLS certifications may be required.

    • Core Duties:

      • Prepare operating rooms, sterilize instruments, and ensure all necessary surgical supplies are ready.

      • Assist during surgery by passing instruments to surgeons and holding retractors.

      • Maintain a sterile environment to prevent infections.

    • Salary Range: $43,290 – $90,700 per year

    • Key Skills:

      • Attention to detail

      • Dexterity and physical stamina

      • Communication and team collaboration

Mid-Level Role: Surgical Assistant

    • Job Titles: Surgical First Assistant, Surgical Assistant

    • Education: Completion of a surgical assisting program (postsecondary certification) or significant experience as a surgical technologist.

    • Experience: Typically 2-5 years of experience in the operating room as a surgical technologist.

    • Certifications: Certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA).

    • Core Duties:

      • Assist surgeons directly during procedures by making incisions, suturing, or suctioning.

      • Handle tissues, organs, and perform other tasks under the surgeon’s guidance.

    • Salary Range: $60,290 – $102,390 per year

    • Key Skills:

      • Advanced knowledge of surgical procedures

      • Dexterity and precise movement

      • Problem-solving and quick decision-making

Senior-Level Role: Senior Surgical Assistant or Technologist

    • Job Titles: Senior Surgical Technologist, Surgical Technology Supervisor, Surgical Assistant Manager

    • Education: Associate’s degree in surgical technology or assisting, with potential advanced training or certifications.

    • Experience: More than 5 years of experience in surgical technology or assisting.

    • Certifications: Specialized certifications, including advanced surgical assistant certifications, and continued education in surgical technologies.

    • Core Duties:

      • Lead surgical teams, ensuring optimal equipment preparation and managing room logistics.

      • Mentor junior staff and oversee the sterilization process and preparation of instruments.

      • Ensure that surgical teams comply with all regulations and protocols.

    • Salary Range: $63,270 – $98,470 per year

    • Key Skills:

      • Leadership and team management

      • High-level problem-solving and organization

      • Advanced clinical and technical expertise

2. How to Become a Surgical Assistant or Technologist

    • Education Requirements:

      • Entry-Level: Typically requires a certificate or associate’s degree in surgical technology from an accredited institution.

      • Mid-Level: A few years of experience as a surgical technologist or additional training in surgical assisting.

      • Senior-Level: Advanced certifications and substantial clinical experience, often leading to supervisory roles.

    • Licenses and Certifications:

      • Surgical Technologists: Certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is often required.

      • Surgical Assistants: Certification through the National Commission for the Certification of Surgical Assistants (NCCSA).

    • Training: On-the-job training is common for surgical technologists; surgical assistants may also complete clinical fellowships.

      Skills & Tools

    • Core Skills:

      • Attention to Detail: Crucial for ensuring accuracy in the operating room.

      • Communication: Essential for relaying information in a high-pressure environment.

      • Dexterity and Physical Stamina: Must be able to perform tasks while standing for long periods.

      • Stress-Management: Ability to remain calm and focused during surgeries.

    • Tools & Equipment:

      • Surgical Instruments: Must be familiar with all types of surgical tools and their functions.

      • Sterilization Equipment: Used for disinfecting instruments and maintaining a sterile environment.

      • Surgical Robots: Familiarity with robotic-assisted surgery technologies may be required.

3. Work Environment

Setting: Most surgical assistants and technologists work in hospitals, outpatient care centers, or offices of physicians and dentists.

    • Work Schedule: Full-time, with many working weekends, nights, or being on call. Long shifts are common in hospital settings.

    • Physical Demands: Standing for extended periods, assisting in patient movement, and working in sterile environments.

4. Pay

    • Median Annual Wage (2024):

      • Surgical Assistants: $60,290 per year

      • Surgical Technologists: $62,830 per year

    • Salaries by Specialty:

      • Outpatient Care Centers: $73,600 per year

      • Hospitals (State, Local, Private): $70,200 per year

5. Job Outlook

    • Job Growth: 6% (Faster than average) from 2023 to 2033.

    • Annual Openings: Around 7,900 new openings each year due to replacement and growth.

6. Related Occupations

    • Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists: Perform laboratory tests to diagnose and treat diseases.

    • Dental Assistants: Provide support in dental procedures and patient care.

    • Medical Assistants: Handle administrative and clinical tasks, supporting healthcare providers.

7. Resource for Learning & Advancement

    • Books:

      • "Surgical Technology for the Surgical Technologist" by Joanna K. Gaines

      • "Introduction to Surgical Assisting" by Ronda L. Bowen

    • Online Courses:

      • LinkedIn Learning offers various surgical technology and assisting courses.

      • Coursera provides foundational courses in medical procedures and surgical assisting.

    • Certifications:

      • Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

      • Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C)

      • National Center for Competency Testing Certification

    • Communities:

      • Association of Surgical Technologists: Provides certification and professional development resources.

      • Reddit: r/SurgicalTechs for tips, advice, and career insights.

      • YouTube: Channels offering tutorials and real-life examples of surgical technologies and assisting roles.

Keandra Wilson
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