How to Be Surgical Technologist Lead - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 5, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of the Surgical Technologist Lead is essential in ensuring the successful completion of surgical procedures. This position requires a keen eye for detail, strong organizational skills, and an ability to lead a team. As a result, these professionals can have a significant effect on patient outcomes, as they are responsible for ensuring sterile instruments are available, equipment is functional, and personnel are properly trained.

they can help reduce the risk of infection by ensuring all instruments and surfaces are properly cleaned and disinfected after each procedure. By providing strong leadership and quality assurance, Surgical Technologist Leads help to ensure that operations are successful and patients receive the best possible care.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers prefer applicants with at least a high school diploma or GED. If you don't have a high school diploma, then you should enroll in an accredited GED program.
Enroll in an accredited surgical technology program. To become a Surgical Technologist Lead, you must complete an accredited surgical technology program. This program typically takes anywhere from 12 months to two years to complete and includes lecture and lab courses.
Become certified. To become a Surgical Technologist Lead, you must obtain certification from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). You must pass the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam in order to become certified.
Obtain experience. Most employers require that you have at least two to three years of experience as a surgical technologist before you can become a Surgical Technologist Lead.
Become licensed. Depending on the state you live in, you may be required to become licensed as a surgical technologist. Licensing requirements vary by state, so you should check with your state's board of licensing for details.
Obtain additional certifications. Employers often prefer applicants with additional certifications in areas such as infection control and sterile processing. You can obtain these certifications through organizations such as the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).
Apply for the position. Once you have obtained the necessary qualifications and certifications, you can apply for the position of Surgical Technologist Lead. Most employers prefer applicants with previous leadership experience, so make sure to highlight any relevant experience on your resume.

As a Surgical Technologist Lead, staying ahead and competent requires a commitment to professional and personal development. To do this, one must continuously expand their knowledge and abilities through continuing education and training, staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and safety protocols, and developing excellent communication skills. Continuous learning and self-improvement allows for a deeper understanding of the patients needs, the procedure executed, and post-operative care, which in turn leads to better patient outcomes.

strong interpersonal skills are key to effectively working with doctors, nurses, and other members of the surgical team in order to ensure that the procedure is completed properly and efficiently. By dedicating time to learning, understanding, and improving, Surgical Technologist Leads have the ability to stay ahead of the curve and provide superior care.

You may want to check Surgical First Assistant, Surgical Scheduler, and Surgical Technologist Supervisor for alternative.

Job Description

Assist in the preparation and maintenance of operating room equipment and supplies.
Demonstrate proficiency in the technical skills of the surgical technologist profession.
Ensure that all instruments, equipment and supplies are available and properly functioning in the operating room.
Assist in the development, implementation and evaluation of policies and procedures regarding the use of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies.
Provide instruction and mentorship to surgical technologists.
Monitor and ensure compliance with safety standards in the operating room.
Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists and other healthcare team members to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Take vital signs and document patient information before, during and after surgeries.
Act as a scrub during surgical procedures.
Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of surgical procedures, instruments, and supplies
Ability to read and interpret operating room policies and procedures
Expertise in aseptic technique and infection control protocols
Ability to maintain accurate and complete records
Experience in operating room set-up and preparation for cases
Expertise in sterilization techniques and equipment
Ability to provide leadership and guidance to other surgical technologists
Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare personnel
Ability to anticipate surgeons needs during procedures
Knowledge of the laws, regulations, and standards governing the practice of surgical technology
Ability to maintain an organized and efficient operating room environment
Proficiency in sterile processing
Exceptional physical stamina and dexterity to stand for long periods of time, as well as lift, move, and position patients
Proficiency in using computers for data entry and documentation

Surgical technologist leads play an important role in the operating room. Their responsibilities include organizing supplies, setting up instruments, and assisting the surgeons during the procedure. These duties require a number of key skills, such as organization and time management.

As surgical technologist leads are often responsible for coordinating and overseeing the workflow of the OR, they must have strong communication and leadership skills. They must also have a strong knowledge of anatomy and physiology, and be able to recognize potential risks and take steps to prevent them. Without these essential skills, a surgical technologist lead will be unable to ensure the safety and efficiency of the OR environment.

the success of any surgical procedure depends on the skill and expertise of the surgical technologist lead.

Surgical Technician Lead, Surgical Coordinator, and Surgical Physician Assistant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a Surgical Technologist Lead?
What methods do you use to maintain sterility in the operating room?
Describe a challenging situation you faced in a previous role and how you handled it.
How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple surgeries?
Describe how you would handle a difficult surgeon or patient.
What strategies do you use to ensure patient safety in the operating room?
How do you stay current in the latest technologies and techniques used in the operating room?
How have you collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure positive patient outcomes?
What processes have you implemented to increase efficiency in the operating room?
What experience do you have with training and mentoring new surgical technologists?

Common Tools in Industry

Surgical Instruments. Used for various surgical procedures, such as cutting, suturing, and cauterizing (e. g. scalpel, forceps, suture needles).
Sutures. Used to close wounds or incisions in the skin, muscle, and other tissues (e. g. absorbable sutures, non-absorbable sutures).
Scrub Suit. Protective clothing worn by the scrub tech while in the operating room to ensure sterility (e. g. surgical gown, gloves, face mask).
Sterilization Trays. Containers used to store and sterilize surgical instruments and supplies (e. g. autoclave, gas sterilization).
Wound Care Supplies. Used for cleaning, dressing, and protecting wounds (e. g. gauze, antiseptic solution).
Anesthesia Supplies. Used to administer anesthetics before, during, and after surgery (e. g. syringes, IV catheters).
Operating Room Supplies. Items used to maintain a clean and safe environment in the OR (e. g. drapes, towels).
Surgical Lights. Lights used to illuminate the surgical field during surgery (e. g. halogen lights, LED lights).

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Surgical Technologists (AST)
Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
American College of Surgeons (ACS)
National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA)
International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM)
National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF)
American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS)
American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)

We also have Surgical ICU Nurse, Surgical Center Administrator, and Surgical Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Asepsis. A practice that prevents the spread of infection by keeping surfaces and instruments free from germs.
Surgical Instruments. A variety of tools used by surgeons to perform surgery.
Surgical Drapes. Sheets of fabric used to cover a patient during a surgical procedure in order to maintain a sterile environment.
Surgical Gowns. Specialized clothing worn by medical personnel during a surgical procedure to protect the patient and medical personnel from infection.
Sterilization. The process of killing or removing all living organisms from an object.
Scrubbing. The process of thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the skin with soap and water prior to surgery.
Surgical Counts. A process that involves counting all surgical instruments before, during and after a procedure in order to prevent the risk of retained foreign objects.
N95 Respirator Masks. Masks worn during medical procedures to protect medical personnel from airborne particles and other infectious agents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What education is required to become a Surgical Technologist Lead? A1: To become a Surgical Technologist Lead, you must have at least a two-year associate degree in surgical technology from an accredited college or university. Q2: What are the expected duties of a Surgical Technologist Lead? A2: A Surgical Technologist Lead is responsible for assisting the surgical team in various tasks, such as sterilizing equipment, preparing the operating room, and helping to position the patient. They must also be knowledgeable about the procedures taking place, as well as safety and infection control protocols. Q3: What skills are required to be a successful Surgical Technologist Lead? A3: To be successful as a Surgical Technologist Lead, you need to have excellent communication skills and be able to think quickly in a fast-paced environment. You should also be detail-oriented and have the ability to follow instructions accurately. Q4: What is the average salary of a Surgical Technologist Lead? A4: According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Surgical Technologist Lead is $49,000 per year. Q5: What type of environment does a Surgical Technologist Lead work in? A5: A Surgical Technologist Lead typically works in an operating room or sterile environment. They may also assist in other areas of the hospital, such as the emergency room or labor and delivery.

Web Resources

Surgical Technologist - Explore Health Care Careers - Mayo college.mayo.edu
Surgical Technologist | Office of Human Resources - rochester.edu www.rochester.edu
What Is a Surgical Technologist? | NEIT www.neit.edu