Surgical assistants work closely with surgeons in various settings, including hospitals and clinics. They prepare patients for surgery, sterilize equipment, monitor vital signs, and assist with post-operative care. There are different specialties within surgical assisting, including orthopedic, neurosurgical, obstetric, and cardiac surgery. Surgical assistants are supervised by the surgeon.
A surgical assistant, also known as a surgical technician or surgical technologist, is a professional who works closely with a surgeon on a daily basis. Many surgical assistant jobs can take place in a variety of settings, including hospitals, delivery rooms, clinics, or even outpatient treatment centers.
A surgical technician provides direct assistance, preparing patients for surgery, sterilizing and setting up equipment prior to procedures, and monitoring patients’ vital signs during operations to help perform safe and successful surgeries. Surgical assistant jobs also involve taking care of a patient after an operation, as well as cleaning and restocking the operating room.
There are several surgical assistant jobs available for those who want to enter this profession. While these same duties apply to most opportunities, each differs by area of expertise.
General surgeons are often referred to as “surgeons” and are often competent in a variety of fields. Surgical technicians in orthopedic surgery specialize in treating the musculoskeletal system through a variety of procedures, and may be responsible for administering injections, ordering x-rays, applying or removing dressings, splints, and casts, and documenting patient status.
Neurosurgical assistants are versed in central and peripheral nervous system functions, as well as spinal diseases. Spinal surgery assistants specialize in spinal procedures, while surgical technologists working in otolaryngology are trained in disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck. Obstetric surgical technicians pursue the study of women and childbirth and often assist in childbirth.
Gynecologic surgery technologists can expect to assist with female operating procedures, particularly those dealing with the reproductive system and disorders. Surgical assistant jobs in craniofacial surgery involve maxillofacial and plastic procedures, which deal with the head, neck, face, jaws, and mouth, as well as reconstruction and restoration.
In the genitourinary field, surgical technicians are educated in the reproductive and urinary systems. Cardiac surgery assistants are expected to help with heart and blood vessel procedures, while vascular surgery careers specialize in the circulatory system in general.
Surgery jobs in the field of trauma can include various critical care operations, including emergency procedures on the abdomen, chest, and neck, as well as central nervous system injuries. Finally, surgical assistant jobs in the field of ophthalmology can expect to work in eye procedures such as cataract or glaucoma surgery.
Surgical assistant jobs are supervised and directed by the surgeon himself.
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