Who Is a Surgical Technologist?

A Surgical Technologist, sometimes referred to as a scrub tech or operating room technician, is an allied health professional who plays a crucial role before, during, and after surgery. These specialists are responsible for preparing the operating room, organizing surgical instruments, and directly assisting the surgeon throughout the procedure.

The job of a Surgical Technologist begins well before the first incision. They ensure that all tools are sterile, properly arranged, and functioning. During surgery, they provide instruments to the surgeon, maintain a sterile field, and help manage surgical equipment like retractors, suction machines, or electrocautery devices. After the procedure, they help with clean-up, instrument sterilization, and patient transfer.

The Role of the Operating Room Nurse

An Operating Room Nurse, often called a perioperative nurse, is a registered nurse who specializes in surgical patient care. Their duties cover a broader scope that spans preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases.

There are different types of Operating Room Nurses:

• Circulating Nurse: Manages the operating room, coordinates patient care, and ensures all surgical safety protocols are followed.

• Scrub Nurse: Works directly alongside the Surgical Technologist in passing instruments and assisting the surgeon.

• RN First Assistant (RNFA): Takes a hands-on role during the surgery, helping control bleeding, suturing, and monitoring vital signs.

Together with the Surgical Technologist, the Operating Room Nurse ensures a sterile, organized, and safe environment for the surgical team and the patient.

How They Work Together

Though their responsibilities differ, the Surgical Technologist and Operating Room Nurse must function as a cohesive unit. Communication is critical. For instance, while the Surgical Technologist focuses on the tools and surgical field, the circulating nurse ensures proper documentation, handles specimen collection, and manages unexpected needs or emergencies.

During surgery, timing and anticipation are everything. A skilled Surgical Technologist can predict the surgeon’s next move and have the instrument ready. At the same time, the Operating Room Nurse monitors the patient’s condition and keeps the procedure running smoothly. Their collaboration minimizes delays, enhances patient safety, and supports positive surgical outcomes.

Education and Training

To become a Surgical Technologist, one typically needs to complete an accredited surgical technology program, which may result in a diploma, certificate, or associate degree. Certification through organizations like the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is highly recommended and often required by employers.

On the other hand, becoming an Operating Room Nurse requires earning a nursing degree (ADN or BSN), passing the NCLEX-RN, and receiving specialized perioperative training. Nurses may also pursue certification as a CNOR (Certified Nurse Operating Room) to demonstrate expertise.

Skills and Attributes

Both professions require technical knowledge, focus, and physical stamina. A Surgical Technologist must be highly detail-oriented and capable of maintaining a sterile field for extended periods. They must also have excellent hand-eye coordination to assist with precision instruments.

Operating Room Nurses need strong clinical judgment, emotional resilience, and the ability to adapt quickly to evolving situations in the OR. Both roles demand excellent teamwork and communication skills.

Career Outlook and Opportunities

The healthcare sector continues to grow, and with it, the demand for both Surgical Technologists and Operating Room Nurses. As the aging population requires more surgical interventions, these roles are becoming increasingly essential.

Surgical Technologists can advance to roles such as surgical first assistants, or specialize in areas like neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, or orthopedics. Operating Room Nurses may progress into leadership roles, education, or nurse practitioner positions with additional schooling.