If you’re preparing for a surgical technician interview, expect questions on surgical procedures, sterilization techniques, and patient care. Familiarize yourself with common questions and devise responses to showcase your expertise and readiness for the role.
| Job Description | A Surgical Technician, also known as a scrub, scrub tech, surgical technologist or operating room technician, is an allied health professional working as a part of the team delivering surgical care. They work as a part of the surgical team to ensure that the operating room environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. |
| Skills | Attention to Detail, Dexterity, Physical Stamina, Technical Skills, Communication Skills, Critical Thinking, Ability to Work Under Pressure |
| Industry | Healthcare, Hospitals, Surgery Centers, Outpatient Care Centers |
| Experience Level | Entry-Level to Mid-Level |
| Education Requirements | Completion of an accredited Surgical Technician program, Associate’s degree in Surgical Technology, or Bachelor’s degree in a related field. Certification as a Surgical Technologist is typically required. |
| Work Environment | Surgical technicians work in clean, well-lit, sterile environments such as hospitals, surgery centers, and outpatient care centers. They often stand for long periods and must wear special clothing and protective coverings. |
| Salary Range | According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for surgical technologists was $48,300 in May 2019. |
| Career Path | Surgical Technicians could advance to become a Surgical Assistant, or could specialize in a specific area of surgery. They could also advance to administrative roles such as Operating Room Director. |
| Popular Companies | HCA Healthcare, Tenet Healthcare, Kaiser Permanente, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic |
Surgical Technician Interview Questions
Can you describe a situation where you had to handle a high-pressure situation during surgery and how you managed it?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to assess your ability to handle stress, maintain focus, and make critical decisions during high-pressure situations. Start by describing the situation briefly, then focus on the steps you took to manage it, and finally discuss the outcome. Be sure to highlight your ability to remain calm, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team.
Example:
During one of the surgeries I assisted in, the patient started having an adverse reaction to the anesthesia. It was a high-pressure situation as we needed to stabilize the patient quickly. I kept my calm and immediately informed the surgeon and anesthesiologist. I then followed their instructions accurately to administer medications and adjust the patient’s position. I also helped monitor the patient’s vitals until they were stable. My ability to remain focused and act quickly helped us successfully manage the situation.
How do you maintain sterility during a surgical procedure?
How to Answer:
The candidate should explain the steps they take to maintain sterility during a surgical procedure. They should mention their understanding of sterile techniques, how they apply them, and how they handle situations where sterility might be compromised.
Example:
Maintaining sterility during a surgical procedure is of utmost importance. I always begin by correctly scrubbing in, ensuring all tools and equipment are properly sterilized, and maintaining a sterile field at all times during the procedure. I use sterile drapes and wear appropriate protective equipment. In cases where sterility might be compromised, for example, if a non-sterile person or item comes into contact with the sterile field, I alert the surgical team immediately and take necessary steps to re-establish sterility.
What steps would you take if you noticed a surgeon was about to make a mistake?
How to Answer:
The answer should demonstrate the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively and assertively, and their understanding of the importance of patient safety. It’s important for them to show respect for hierarchy while not being afraid to speak up when necessary. They should also discuss any relevant procedures or protocols for such situations.
Example:
First, I would double-check my observation to ensure it’s not a misunderstanding. If I’m certain a mistake is about to happen, I would politely and assertively communicate my concern to the surgeon. I understand that the operating room is a high-stress environment and it’s crucial to communicate concerns in a respectful, clear, and concise manner. If the surgeon disregards my concern and I still believe a mistake is imminent, I would escalate the issue to the charge nurse or another superior. Patient safety is always the top priority, and it’s crucial to have checks and balances in place.
Can you describe your experience with different types of surgical procedures and the roles you played in them?
How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to show your versatility and adaptability in different surgical environments. Discuss your experiences with various types of surgeries, the roles you’ve played during these procedures, and any specific skills or knowledge you’ve acquired. Additionally, highlight your ability to work as part of a team and your understanding of the different roles in an operating room.
Example:
In my previous role at XYZ Hospital, I participated in various types of surgeries including orthopaedic, cardiovascular, and neurosurgery procedures. During these surgeries, my role involved preparing the operating room, sterilizing and arranging the surgical instruments, and assisting surgeons during the procedures. For instance, in neurosurgery procedures, I had to be particularly careful with the equipment due to the delicate nature of the surgery. This experience has made me proficient in handling and maintaining a wide range of surgical instruments and has also enhanced my knowledge of various surgical procedures.
Can you explain the process you would follow to prepare surgical instruments before a procedure?
How to Answer:
This question tests your understanding of the crucial process of preparing surgical instruments. It’s important to detail your knowledge of sterilization methods, the importance of checking each instrument, and the organization of the surgical tray. Emphasize your attention to detail and understanding of the importance of this task for patient safety.
Example:
Before a surgical procedure, I would first ensure that all the instruments needed for the surgery are present and in good condition. Next, I would sterilize the instruments using the appropriate method, usually autoclaving. After sterilization, I would check each instrument again to make sure they are still in good condition and fully functional. Finally, I would arrange the instruments on the surgical tray in the order they will be used to maximize efficiency and minimize the surgeon’s need to search for the right instrument during the procedure.
How do you keep track of the surgical instruments before, during, and after a procedure?
How to Answer:
Discuss your method for keeping inventory, including any checklists or systems you use to ensure no instrument is left inside a patient. Highlight your attention to detail and the importance of this task in patient safety.
Example:
Before the procedure, I count all the instruments and sponges. During the operation, I maintain a checklist and work closely with the surgeon to keep track of the used instruments. After the surgery, I perform another count and cross-check it with my initial inventory. If there are discrepancies, I immediately notify the surgical team. Patient safety is my top priority, and I understand that keeping track of every instrument plays a crucial role in that.
Can you explain how you handle stress and fatigue during long surgeries?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to understand how you manage your stress levels and remain focused during long surgeries. Give examples of techniques or methods you use to keep yourself calm and alert. It’s also important to communicate that you understand the importance of maintaining a high level of performance, regardless of the situation.
Example:
During long surgeries, I understand the importance of staying alert and focused. To manage stress, I ensure that I’m well-rested before any procedure and maintain a healthy lifestyle outside of work. I also practice deep-breathing exercises to help stay calm in high-pressure situations. Fatigue can be combated by staying hydrated and taking brief moments to rest when possible. I always prioritize patient safety and understand that my ability to handle stress and fatigue impacts the outcome of the surgery.
How do you ensure your knowledge and skills as a Surgical Technician are up to date?
How to Answer:
The candidate should express their commitment to continuous learning and professional development. They should mention any relevant certifications, training courses, or seminars they have attended. They could also talk about reading industry publications, attending industry events, or being part of professional organizations. The candidate should also demonstrate an understanding of the importance of staying updated with the latest technology and procedures in the surgical field.
Example:
I am committed to continuous learning and professional development. I regularly attend training courses and seminars to enhance my skills and knowledge. I’m also a member of the Association of Surgical Technologists which provides me with valuable resources and updates on the latest advancements in the surgical field. Additionally, I read medical journals and research papers to stay updated with the latest surgical procedures and technologies.
Describe a time when you had to communicate effectively with a surgeon during a procedure. What was the situation and how did your communication skills impact the outcome?
How to Answer:
The interviewer is looking to understand your communication skills and your ability to handle potentially stressful situations. In your response, describe the situation, the actions you took, and the outcome of the situation. Be sure to highlight how your communication skills made a positive impact.
Example:
During a complex cardiac surgery, the surgeon was focused on a particular issue and didn’t notice a small piece of surgical equipment was missing. I calmly and clearly communicated the issue to the surgeon, who was able to rectify the situation quickly. This prevented any potential complications and the surgery was successful. I believe my ability to effectively communicate under pressure was crucial in this situation.
Can you describe the procedure you follow for handling and disposing of biohazardous waste after a surgery?
How to Answer:
A good answer would demonstrate your knowledge of proper biohazardous waste disposal protocols. It’s important to include the steps you take to ensure safety and the prevention of contamination, as well as your understanding of the importance of these procedures in maintaining a clean and safe environment in the surgical suite.
Example:
After a surgical procedure, all biohazardous waste such as used gloves, gauze, needles, and other sharps are disposed of in designated biohazard waste containers. I ensure that all sharps are discarded in a sharps container and not mixed with other biohazard waste. I am also careful to ensure that the waste containers are not overfilled and are sealed properly to prevent spillage. Once the waste is secured, I follow the hospital’s protocol for waste removal. I understand the importance of proper waste disposal to prevent contamination and maintain a safe environment in the OR.