Chapter 1: Surgical Technology the Profession and the Professional

Surgical Technologist

A member of the Allied Health Professionals, involved in patient care and technical expertise in surgery.

CST

Certified Surgical Technologist who performs various roles in surgical settings.

Scrub Role

The sterile team member who dons sterile gowns and gloves and participates actively in surgery.

Assistant Circulator

Non-sterile team member responsible for preparing non-sterile equipment and supporting patient care.

Second Assistant

Assists the surgeon with tissue retraction, suction, and wound dressing.

Emergency Duty

Refers to STs being on call to be available outside of regular working hours.

Preparation of Surgical Instruments

Cleaning, disinfecting, sterilization, assembly, and storage of surgical tools.

Patient Care

Direct care provided to patients, including emotional support and safety measures.

NBSTSA

National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, which certifies surgical technologists.

Continuing Education Credits

Required activities to maintain certification as a surgical technologist.

AST

Association of Surgical Technologists.

AORN

Association of Operating Room Nurses, responsible for developing training manuals.

AORT

Association of Operating Room Technicians, aimed at improving training for surgical technologists.

CAAHEP

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, overseeing education standards.

ARC/STSA

Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.

ABHES

Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools, an organization that evaluates educational programs.

FFST

Foundation for Surgical Technology, an organization that supports surgical technologists.

JC

The Joint Commission, an organization that accredits healthcare organizations.

Professional Ethics

The standards for conduct expected from healthcare professionals.

Integrity

Adherence to moral and ethical principles, crucial for professionals.

Empathy

The ability to understand and share in the feelings of others, especially patients.

Professional Code of Ethics

A set of guidelines to help professionals conduct their work honorably.

Do No Harm

An ethical principle in healthcare that emphasizes preventing injury to patients.

Tact & Discretion

The ability to handle sensitive situations with care and respect.

Manual Dexterity

The skillful use of hands, crucial for surgical technologists.

Organizational Skills

The ability to arrange tasks and responsibilities efficiently.

Problem Solving

The ability to find solutions to complex issues during surgical procedures.

People Skills

Interpersonal abilities that facilitate communication and team dynamics.

Self Regulation

The ability to manage one's emotions and behaviors in a professional setting.