Scrub Technician Duties

• Accredited programs in surgical technology are available in some community colleges and vocational schools. Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images

  Scrub technicians assist surgeons and registered nurses with surgical operations and other invasive procedures. They are often referred to as surgical technicians or operating room technicians. Most of these positions require at least one year experience, cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification and completion of a surgery technician course. Job duties range from sterilizing surgical tools to monitoring a patient's recovery progress.

Preoperative Duties

• Scrub technicians are responsible for preparing the operating room by setting up equipment and sterilizing tools necessary for an operation. They also make sure all instruments are in proper working condition, assembling any materials if needed. Scrub techs prepare patients for surgery by washing and disinfecting areas for operation. Other preoperative duties may include transporting a patient to the operating room and appropriately positioning the patient on the operating table. Scrub technicians also observe vital signs, check charts and assist the surgical team in dressing for the surgery.

Operative Duties

• In the process of surgery, scrub techs pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon. Tools they are required to be familiar with include retractors, cut sutures, sponges and needles. In addition, scrub technicians are responsible for disposing of used materials. They also may be helpful in assisting with laboratory analysis. Although they are not qualified to perform laboratory tests, scrub techs aid in recording data and preparing specimens for examination. It is not unusual for technicians to have to stand for long periods of time during surgery. Scrub technicians should be alert throughout a procedure and be ready to perform CPR in an emergency.

Postoperative Duties

• After the procedure, scrub techs assist in transporting patients to a recovery room. They may monitor the patient's recovery progress by checking vital signs, dressing wounds or administering medications. Scrub technicians also are responsible for cleaning the operating room in preparation for the next procedure. These duties include returning unused supplies to their proper location and stocking materials as needed in the operating room. Scrub techs work in clean, cool and sterile environments. It is crucial to respect these environments so the well-being of the patient is not compromised. Technicians are often exposed to disease, unpleasant sights, odors and smells. It is important for them to practice safety measures to maintain their own health.