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Scrub techs are an important part of the medical team. They are responsible for making sure the operating room is clean and sterile.
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Scrub Tech Definition
A scrub tech, also called a surgical technologist, is an allied health professional who works under the supervision of a licensed surgeon to ensure a sterile operating environment. Scrub techs are responsible for preparing the operating room for surgery and sterilizing all instruments. They also setup any needed equipment and help position patients on the operating table. During surgery, scrub techs provide surgeons with any needed instruments and supplies. They also assist with wound closure and post-operative dressing changes.
Scrub tech job Description
A scrub tech, also called a surgical technologist, is a member of the surgical team. Scrub techs are responsible for making sure the operating room is clean and sterile and that all of the instruments needed for the surgery are ready. They also help the surgeon by passing instruments during the surgery.
Pre-op Procedures
The pre-op phase of a surgical procedure is when the surgical team preps the patient and operating room for surgery. During this phase, the scrub tech will set up the sterile field and all of the necessary instruments and supplies for the surgery. The scrub tech may also help to position the patient on the operating table and prepare them for anesthesia.
Intra-op Procedures
The scrub tech, also called a surgical technologist, is an allied health professional who works alongside surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other operating room personnel during surgical procedures. Scrub techs are trained in the care and preparation of the operating room suite and instruments, as well as the sterile techniques required to maintain aseptic conditions throughout the procedure.
In most cases, scrub techs will enter the operating room suite ahead of the surgeon and prepare the instruments, supplies and equipment needed for the procedure. Once the patient is brought into the operating room and anesthesia has been induced, the scrub tech will help position the patient on the operating table and prepare them for surgery. During the procedure, scrub techs may be responsible for passing instruments to the surgeon or holding retractors to keep tissue clear of the surgical site.
After the surgery is complete, scrub techs will assist in transferring the patient to recovery and cleaning and sterilizing the operating room suite for the next procedure.
Post-op Procedures
After the surgery is completed, the surgical tech will help the surgeon with any post-operative procedures that need to be done. This may include checking the patient’s vital signs, starting an IV, or helping the patient to the recovery room. The scrub tech may also need to clean and sterilize the operating room before the next surgery.
Scrub Tech Salary
The average scrub tech salary is $39,290 per year, or $18.93 per hour. The top 10 percent of earners make more than $57,580 per year, while the bottom 10 percent earn less than $26,560 per year.
Scrub Tech Training
A scrub tech, also called a surgical technologist, is a medical professional who works alongside surgeons and other medical staff during surgeries. Scrub techs are responsible for setting up the operating room before surgery, sterilizing equipment, and making sure that everything the surgeon needs is within easy reach. They also often help to position patients on the operating table and may even assist in minor procedures.
Scrub techs must complete an accredited surgical technology program before they can begin working in the OR. Many programs take about two years to complete, and some scrub techs also choose to earn certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Sterile Processing. Once they have finished their education and training, scrub techs can find employment in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
Scrub Tech Certification
There are a variety of certification and training programs available to become a scrub tech. Many hospitals offer on-the-job training, while others may require completion of a formal program. There are also several professional organizations that offer certification, such as the National Healthcare Association and the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management.
Most scrub techs enter the field with at least a high school diploma although some may have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Some employers may require certification from one of the professional organizations mentioned above. Scrub techs must be able to follow complex instructions and pay close attention to detail. They must also be able to work well under pressure and maintain a positive attitude in order to provide excellent patient care.
