What Is a Surgical Technologist?

A surgical technologist is an allied health professional who works in the operating room as an essential member of the surgical team.

Surgical technologists help create and maintain a safe, sterile environment for surgery. They prepare the operating room, set up instruments and equipment, and assist the surgeon and surgical team before, during, and after procedures.

Surgical technologist preparing instruments in a hospital operating room.
Certified Surgical Technologist

The Role of a Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists work under the direction of a surgeon and alongside anesthesia professionals, nurses, and other perioperative team members to support safe, efficient surgical care.

They prepare the operating room, organize and count instruments and supplies, maintain the sterile field, and anticipate the needs of the surgeon throughout the procedure.

Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) demonstrate advanced competency through national certification and ongoing continuing education.

In simple terms…

A surgical technologist prepares the operating room, sets up sterile instruments and equipment, and assists the surgeon and team so every procedure can proceed safely and smoothly.

Gloved surgical technologist passing a surgical instrument over the sterile field.

What Surgical Technologists Do Before, During, and After Surgery

Before Surgery (Preoperative)

  • Prepare the operating room with the correct equipment, instruments, and supplies.
  • Open sterile supplies and arrange instrument tables for the procedure.
  • Check equipment for safety and proper function.
  • Help position and prepare the patient as directed by the team.

During Surgery (Intraoperative)

  • Maintain the sterile field and monitor sterile technique.
  • Pass instruments, sutures, and supplies to the surgeon and assistants.
  • Anticipate the surgeon’s needs based on the steps of the procedure.
  • Handle specimens, sharps, and counts according to policy.
Operating room team including a surgical technologist working around a draped patient.

After Surgery (Postoperative)

  • Participate in final counts of instruments, sponges, and sharps.
  • Help apply dressings and prepare the patient for transfer.
  • Break down the sterile field and send instruments for decontamination.
  • Assist with preparing the room for the next case.

Explore the Surgical Technologist Career in More Detail

Now that you know what a surgical technologist is, dive deeper into day‑to‑day job duties, work environments, and specialty pathways.

Surgical Technologist Job Duties Work Environment Specialties Overview