![]() After they complete training, aspiring surgical technologists take a national certification exam. While the position doesn't always require a degree, some programs do result in receiving an associate degree in the field. Most often, completing the training program results in certification. Here are details about how training and education differ for surgical technologists and surgical assistants: Surgical technologistīecoming a surgical technologist requires a one- to two-year training program. Related: Useful Tips on How To Become a Surgical Tech Training and education They aid in performing the surgery itself, accomplishing minor tasks, performing smaller medical procedures and allowing the surgeon to focus on the primary task at hand. They also anticipate the surgeon's needs by ensuring the room is well-equipped and prepared to handle surgery.Ī surgical assistant serves as an extra team member during surgery. While both aim to provide support to a surgeon in an active operating room by handling more minor responsibilities, they each focus on one specific area within the room. A surgical technologist monitors the operating room and equipment around both the surgeon and the patient to ensure it's a safe and sterilized environment for surgery. Perhaps the biggest differences between a surgical technologist and a surgical assistant are the specific responsibilities each job demands. Here are the biggest differences that separate the two from one another to more clearly define each and help determine which might be a better fit for you: Responsibilities Related: 30 Well-Paying Medical Jobs To Pursue With Limited Schooling Surgical technologist vs. surgical assistant: What's the difference?Īlthough their job titles are similar, and there's some overlap between the two positions, there are many differences between a surgical technologist and a surgical assistant. Holding incisions open while the surgeon operates Monitoring and maintaining normal blood flow and clotting (hemostasis) Handling the suction machine to maintain a clean surgical target Selecting correct surgical tools when needed The main surgical assistant duties and responsibilities include: They can perform all of the same tasks as a surgical technologist, but have a broader scope of practice enabling them to further assist the surgeon. Related: How Much Does a Surgical Intern Make? What is a surgical assistant?Ī surgical assistant sometimes referred to as a first or non-physician assistant is an operating room attendant who provides hands-on aid to the surgeon during active surgery. Handing the surgeon the correct instruments when needed Maintaining a sterile environment for surgery Sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment Setting up, testing and monitoring surgical equipment The main job duties of a surgical technologist include: Having someone responsible for basic safety within the operating room allows the surgeon to focus on the patient for the duration of the surgery. ![]() They also ensure a sterile, safe environment for the surgery to take place. They're primarily responsible for overseeing the condition and sterilization of the tools a surgeon needs to complete an operation. The team includes a registered nurse and a surgical tech who sets up and maintains the operating room and the equipment within it. What is a surgical technologist?Ī surgical technologist sometimes referred to as a surgical technician or surgical tech, is a member of the surgical team. In this article, we define what surgical assistants and technologists are, list their job duties and point out their major differences to help you choose which path is the right one for you. Knowing the differences between these two positions and the responsibilities expected of each can aid you in making an informed career decision. For those interested in working in an operating room without seeking a nursing or an advanced medical degree, there are a few options. Surgical assistants and surgical technologists both assist the surgeon during an operation, but their similar titles and duties can make choosing a career path challenging.
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