What Is a Surgical Scrub Technician?
A surgical scrub technician works in operating rooms at hospitals and surgical centers. Some other job titles include surgical technologist and operating room technicians. Surgical technicians may perform duties under the direction of a registered nurse or an operating surgeon.
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Basic Duties
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Scrub technicians perform basic duties ranging from helping surgical patients with preliminary surgical grooming to placing surgical instruments within a surgeon's reach. Assisting surgical teams with sterile clothing also can be performed by a technician.
Intermediate Duties
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Surgical technologists might hand sterile equipment to surgical staff and resupply the operating room with supplies and surgical instruments. Transporting surgical patients may be assigned.
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Education and Training
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Training programs might last from nine to 24 months with coursework ,including surgical procedures and infection control. Certification may be obtained from programs such as the National Center of Competency Testing.
Work Environment
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Surgical technologists often work nontraditional hours, since hospitals operate 24 hours a day. Scrub technicians work within sterile environments to minimize patient infections during surgical procedures.
Salary and Growth Opportunities
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As of 2009, salaries for surgical technicians can range from $30,000 to $44,000 a year, based on geographical region and experience. Growth opportunities include managing central supply departments or specializing in certain areas, such as as cardiac care.
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