As with any profession, surgical technologists need certain skills to perform well in the job. What are the basic skills necessary for this job? Are there any skills beyond the basics that can help in this role?
The Basics
Given the nature of the job, surgical technologists can find themselves in high-pressure situations. Not surprisingly, candidates for surgical technology work need to be team players, able to resolve conflict and maintain a level head in stressful situations. There are a few other essentials: stress management skills and attention to detail are musts for surgical procedures.
Clearly, this role is not suitable for anyone who is squeamish about anatomy or the sight of blood. If you’re more fascinated than scared by the human body, being a surgical technician could be the right role in the health care field. There are a few other factors that are vital to success in this role: Curiosity and a willingness to learn and help wherever you’re needed are great qualities for a successful surgery technician.
Be Prepared for the Challenge
A surgical technologist is part of a team, and the surgeon is the head of the team. The surgical technologist is responsible for several challenging functions, including working under the supervision of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures, ensuring that the operating room environment is safe, the equipment functions properly, and maximizing patient safety.
With experience, a surgical technologist may learn to anticipate what the surgeon needs prior to a verbal command. In addition, surgical technologists need to be able to identify and ameliorate stress levels; eating right, exercising, and meditating may help a surgical technologist maintain a keen sense of focus.
Make the Most of Strengths
Strength comes in many forms. For a surgical technologist, strong nerves are a top priority. A shaky hand is a surgical tech’s worst nightmare. It is essential to remain calm and focus…nervous energy can become infectious in an operating room. How about a strong stomach? Any hands-on healthcare job has unpleasant to downright disgusting moments, but as a surgical tech, you will be smack dab in the presence of more exposed innards than you’d probably care to share.
Strong organizational skills are important, too: The surgical tech must keep a watchful eye on sponges, needles, and instruments, to ensure no member of the operating team is injured by a sharp instrument, and that nothing is left inside the patient.
We’d Like to Talk with You
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. Whether you are a surgical tech or a healthcare professional in a different specialty, we’d love to talk with you. Give us a call at 310.436.3650 today.