Provided by

Surgical Technologist

A surgical technologist, also called "scrub tech," "surgical technician," or "operating room technician", is an allied health professional working as a part of the team delivering surgical care in some countries. They possess knowledge and skills in sterile and aseptic techniques. There are few mandatory professional requirements for surgical technologists, and the scope of practice varies widely across countries and jurisdictions. Surgical technologist attend junior colleges and technical schools, and many are trained in military training schools. In the military they perform the duties of both the circulator and the scrub. The bulk of training is done in the operating room, and they are trained by giving them progressively more difficult surgical cases to scrub, until they are able to scrub all types of surgical procedures, this can take a few years. The goal is for surgical technologist to be able to anticipate the next move the surgeon is going to make in order to make the procedure as smooth and efficient as possible.

In the United States, surgical technologists are unlicensed assistive personnel who work under the supervision of a surgeon, registered nurse (RN), or other surgical personnel (such as a more senior Technologists), to help 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. They handle the instruments, scrubs, medications, and other supplies and equipment necessary during the surgical procedure. They perform basic tasks such as checking patients' medical charts and consent forms, preparing sterile dressings, and closing incisions. Surgical Technologists also train other OR personnel such as new technologists and new circulating RNs.

In Mozambique, they provide advanced surgical services, often working autonomously in the absence of a physician. In other countries, professions with similar titles include 'Clinical officers', 'Clinical associates', or 'Assistant Medical Officers', but which can mean different things subject to local circumstances.