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The Role and Responsibilities of a Traveling Surgical Tech

The Role and Responsibilities of a Traveling Surgical Tech

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Health Carousel Travel Nursing
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Surgical Tech Travel Jobs

In the intricate world of surgical procedures, the role of a surgical technologist, also known as a surgical tech or operating room tech, is indispensable. These skilled healthcare professionals form an integral part of the surgical team, collaborating closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to establish and maintain safe and sterile operating room environments. Their meticulous responsibilities span from preparing surgical instruments and equipment to passing tools to surgeons in a sterile manner during procedures, showcasing a commitment to minimizing contamination risks.

As a leading staffing agency, Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health specializes in placing highly qualified surgical technologists and other allied health professionals into rewarding travel assignments at top healthcare facilities across the country.

What Do Surgical Techs Do?

A surgical technologist, also called a surgical tech or operating room tech, is a skilled healthcare professional who works closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses to ensure safe and sterile operating room environments. The primary responsibilities of surgical techs involve:

Preparing operating rooms before procedures by:

  • Laying out surgical instruments like scalpels, clamps, retractors
  • Arranging equipment like electrosurgical units, suction, irrigation
  • Preparing sterile drapes
  • Checking supplies needed for the type of surgery
  • Ensuring all surfaces are disinfected and sterile

During surgeries:

  • Passing necessary sterile instruments and equipment directly to surgeons
  • Holding retractors and cutting sutures
  • Assisting with equipment adjustments like lights, tables, microscopes,
  • Anticipating the needs of surgeons due to anatomy knowledge
  • Monitoring inventory and restocking supplies when needed

After procedures:

  • Accounting for all instruments, supplies, and specimens
  • Breaking down and disinfecting sterile setups
  • Transporting specimens to pathology
  • Preparing an operating room for the next case

Because surgical assistants are so essential, this can be a lucrative, fulfilling career for healthcare professionals. If you're curious about surgical tech jobs and opportunities, look to Health Carousel Nursing & Allied Health.

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Salary and Growth Projection

Surgical technologists earn a mean salary of around $55,000 per year in permanent positions. However, travel surgical techs have the potential to earn much higher incomes.

Traveling surgical techs typically make upwards of $97,000 annually, with top earners exceeding $100,000. With stipends, overtime, and bonuses, six-figure salaries are common among travel techs.

Total compensation packages often range from $2,000 - $2,100 per week when factoring in base pay, housing allowances, completion bonuses, overtime, and benefits.

There will likely be many opportunities for career advancement and pay increases based on skills, experience, and assignments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a surgical tech job stressful?

Surgical technologists work in high-stakes environments and have serious responsibilities, which can be stressful for some. However, with proper training and experience, this can be a fulfilling career that challenges you to be your best.

What is a surgical RN called?

A registered nurse who works in the operating room assisting with surgical procedures is specifically called an Operating Room Nurse (OR nurse).

OR nurses require specialized training and certification beyond traditional RN licensure. They gain expertise in surgical procedures, equipment, and safety protocols. Their nursing skills combined with surgical knowledge make OR nurses a vital part of the operating team.

How do I know if surgical tech is right for me?

If you're considering a career in surgical tech, research the role, requirements, and responsibilities to see if they align with your goals. In addition, consider talking to surgical techs who can share more about their experiences with surgical operation, so you can get a better idea of the role and what it entails.

GET STARTED IN

Land your dream job faster when you travel with us. Get started with top local and national travel nurse jobs in On Demand.

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GET STARTED IN

Land your dream job faster when you travel with us. Get started with top local and national travel nurse jobs in On Demand.

GET STARTED IN

Land your dream job faster when you travel with us. Get started with top local and national travel nurse jobs in On Demand.

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