CST

At ScionHealth, we empower our caregivers to do what they do best. We value every voice by caring deeply for every patient and each other. We show courage by running toward the challenge and we lean into new ideas by embracing curiosity and question asking. Together, we create our culture by living our values in our day-to-day interactions with our patients and teammates.

Job Summary

The Certified Surgical Technician (CST) works under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse to assist in surgical operations. The CST is responsible for ensuring the surgical suite is prepared, maintaining a sterile environment, passing instruments to surgeons during procedures, and assisting in room turnover. The CST plays a vital role in patient safety, infection control, and operational efficiency in the surgical setting.

Essential Functions

• Prepare the operating room with sterile instruments, equipment, supplies, and solutions required for surgical procedures.
• Maintain aseptic technique and sterile field throughout the procedure.
• Pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon and surgical team during procedures.
• Accurately track sponges, needles, and instruments before, during, and after surgical procedures to ensure nothing is retained.
• Assist with room turnover before and after procedures, including waste disposal and equipment reprocessing.
• Operate and monitor sterilization equipment in accordance with AAMI, AORN, TJC, and OSHA standards.
• Assist in processing specimens for laboratory analysis.
• Ensure proper documentation of instrument counts, procedures, and sterilization indicators.
• Comply with infection control, personal protective equipment, and safety protocols.
• Support performance improvement and risk management initiatives.
• Maintain readiness and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment.  

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Must read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Demonstrated knowledge of surgical procedures, instrumentation, and sterile techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work accurately under pressure.
• Effective interpersonal and team collaboration skills.
• Must demonstrate regular and reliable attendance. 

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Successful completion of a program in surgical technology accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) required.

Licenses/Certifications

• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential required within time frame required by facility policy.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required.
• De-escalation training required within time frame required by facility policy.

Experience

• 12 to 18 months of acute care operating room experience preferred.