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Frequently Asked Questions
of A Surgical Tech

 

What gives the greatest pleasure in my work?clinic.gif (12313 bytes)

The fact that you have helped to save someone's life or that you have helped to improve the quality of someone's life through surgical interventions.  The wonderful feeling of happiness when a baby is born by way of Cesarean Section.  That first cry is so exciting!

What do I like least about my job?

The long hours of standing in one place alongside the operating room table, being exposed to bloodborne diseases, but most of all the feeling of helplessness when there is nothing you can do to help a patient especially in cases such as cancer that has spread to different parts of the body.

Why did I choose this career?

Surgery is a very exciting career!  There is no other field that can compare to it.  It is totally different from any other area of work.  Most of all, I enjoy being able to see how the human body functions, and I really love being able to help my patients.  I enjoy taking care of people.

What kind of hours are involved?

Most hospitals have normal eight hour shifts along with extra hours for assigned or voluntary trauma call duties.  When you are taking trauma call, you have to be available in case there's an emergency that requires surgery.

Surgical Technologist Job Responsibilities

The surgical technologist must have the ability to integrate an understanding of anatomy and physiology.  Along with surgical procedures, the surgical technologist must have excellent manual dexterity, and be able to act quickly to convey and receive instruments from the surgeon, must be able to communicate effectively and to function efficiently and calmly in an extremely stressful environment.  Careful attention to detail is required to ensure maintenance of a sterile field.

Personality Traits for My Profession

You must maintain a professional attitude, be responsible, caring, and be able to function during extreme emergency situations.

Training Required for my Job

Training is based on both classroom and hospital experience.  Other requirements/recommendations are as follows:

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For more information:
contact John Ratliff, Surgical Technology Program Manager,
at
jratliff@yorktech.com or 803-981-7071

 

This page is maintained by the Health and Human Services Division and was last edited on 09/14/09

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