Scrub Tech Certification: An Overview

Scrub tech certification, also known as surgical technologist certification, is an important credential for individuals who work in the operating room to assist surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists, also called scrub techs or surgical techs, play a crucial role in ensuring that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently. This certification process helps to establish a standardized level of knowledge and skills required for the profession.

1. What is a Scrub Tech?

A scrub tech is a healthcare professional who works alongside surgeons and other medical staff during surgeries. Their main responsibilities include preparing the operating room, ensuring the surgical instruments are sterile and ready for use, assisting during the surgery by handing instruments to the surgeon, and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the procedure. They may also be responsible for helping to dress the surgical site, monitoring patients during surgery, and documenting relevant information.

2. What is Scrub Tech Certification?

Scrub tech certification is a process in which a surgical technologist proves their proficiency in the skills required to work in the operating room. It typically involves completing a training program in surgical technology and passing a certification exam. Certification is often required by employers and ensures that surgical technologists are competent in their duties, particularly when it comes to maintaining sterile techniques and assisting in surgical procedures.

The certification is granted by various organizations, with the most recognized certification being from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The credential granted is often referred to as Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

3. The Path to Certification

The path to scrub tech certification typically includes the following steps:

• Education: Aspiring scrub techs must complete a surgical technology program, which is typically offered at accredited community colleges, vocational schools, and universities. These programs usually last about 9 to 24 months and include both classroom education and clinical experience.
• Training: In addition to the theoretical aspects of the program, students are required to gain hands-on experience in clinical settings. This experience helps students understand the dynamics of the operating room and apply what they have learned.
• Certification Exam: After completing the required education and training, candidates can sit for the certification exam. The exam typically covers topics such as surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, surgical instruments, and patient safety. The exam is designed to assess the candidate's knowledge and ability to perform the duties of a surgical technologist in a safe and effective manner.

4. Importance of Certification

The certification process serves several important functions:

• Competence: Certification ensures that a scrub tech has a thorough understanding of the surgical environment, surgical procedures, and proper sterilization techniques. It also indicates that the individual is capable of performing their duties effectively and safely.
• Professionalism: Certification elevates the status of surgical technologists by recognizing their expertise in the field. It demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality care to patients.
• Employability: Many hospitals and surgical centers require surgical technologists to be certified in order to be hired. Certification is often seen as a mark of professionalism and proficiency, which can help job seekers stand out in a competitive job market.
• Continuous Learning: Certification is not a one-time achievement. In many cases, scrub techs are required to complete continuing education or periodic re-certification exams to maintain their credentials. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with the latest surgical practices and technologies.

5. Skills Required for Scrub Tech Certification

Scrub techs are required to have a variety of skills to ensure the success of surgical procedures. These skills include:

• Sterilization and Infection Control: A primary role of the scrub tech is maintaining a sterile environment in the operating room. This includes cleaning and preparing instruments, ensuring sterile techniques are followed, and preventing infection during surgeries.
• Attention to Detail: Scrub techs need to be highly detail-oriented to accurately hand instruments to the surgeon, keep track of surgical supplies, and ensure nothing is left behind in the surgical site.
• Knowledge of Surgical Procedures: A strong understanding of various surgical procedures and how the operating room functions is essential. Scrub techs must be familiar with the different steps of surgeries and the instruments required.
• Communication and Teamwork: Scrub techs must work closely with surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals. Clear communication and teamwork are crucial to ensure that procedures go smoothly.

6. Challenges and Considerations

While scrub tech certification can lead to a rewarding career in the healthcare field, the profession does come with challenges:

• Stressful Work Environment: The operating room can be a high-pressure environment, requiring surgical technologists to remain calm and focused under pressure.
• Physical Demands: The role often requires long hours on your feet, as well as the physical dexterity to handle and arrange surgical instruments with precision.
• Exposure to Infectious Diseases: While the risk is minimized through sterile techniques, scrub techs work in environments where they may be exposed to infectious materials. Proper protective equipment and adherence to infection control guidelines are essential.

7. Conclusion

Scrub tech certification plays a significant role in ensuring the quality and safety of surgical procedures. Becoming a certified surgical technologist involves completing a formal education program, gaining clinical experience, and passing a certification exam. With the right skills, training, and certification, surgical technologists can pursue a career in a vital healthcare role, supporting surgeons and ensuring successful patient outcomes.