What Are the Duties of a Scrub Tech?

The title of scrub tech is a commonly used name for a surgical technician or technologist. As part of the operating room team, scrub techs assist surgeons and help make sure each operation is performed in a sterile and safe environment.

Location

Most scrub techs work at hospitals, while many others are employed by doctor's offices, outpatient care centers and dental surgeons.

Prep Duties

Scrub techs sterilize instruments, set up operating rooms with supplies and equipment, and make sure all equipment is in good working order. Before each surgery, a scrub tech assists with gowning and gloving the surgeon, nurses and other members of the team.

Surgery Duties

During surgeries, scrub techs hand instruments to the surgeon, and they may perform sponging and suctioning procedures. They adjust lights, monitor vital signs and maintain the supply of plasma, blood and other fluids.

Post-Surgery Duties

After surgeries, scrub techs gather instruments for sterilization and dispose of sharps. They remove soiled patient drapes and other material, and they dispose of it properly. Scrub techs may assist in cleaning the room to make it ready for the next surgery.

Salary and Schedule

As of 2008, scrub techs were earning about $19 per hour on average--or $40,000 annually--according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Most scrub techs work full-time, and the schedule may involve nights, weekends and holidays.

References

• BLS: Surgical Technologist Careers
• BLS: Surgical Technologist Salaries
• Scrub Tech Duties

Resources

• Surgical Technician Careers