Interested in a career in surgical technology? Find out where your degree or certificate
from Harper College can take you.
A Surgical Technologist is an allied health professional who works closely with surgeons,
anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and other surgical personnel to ensure the safe
and efficient conduct of surgical procedures.
Primary Responsibilities:
Prepare the operating room by setting up sterile instruments, equipment, and supplies.
Maintain strict adherence to aseptic and sterile techniques to prevent infection.
Assist the surgical team during procedures by passing instruments and supplies, retracting
tissues, and handling specimens.
Monitor and maintain the sterile field throughout the procedure.
Perform counts of instruments, sponges, and sharps with the circulator to ensure nothing
is retained in the patient.
Participate in preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care and clean-up,
including preparing instruments for sterilization.
Work Environment:
Surgical technologists are employed in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and
specialty practices. They typically work in operating rooms, often standing for extended
periods, and must be able to respond quickly in high-pressure environments.
Skills and Attributes:
Strong knowledge of surgical procedures and instrumentation
Attention to detail and manual dexterity
Ability to work well under pressure
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Commitment to patient safety and sterile technique
Education and Certification:
Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program is required. Graduates are
eligible to take the national certification exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) through the NBSTSA.
