Top 10 Questions for Surgery Technician (Surgery Tech) Interview

1. Describe the process of setting up and maintaining a sterile field in the operating room?

Setting up and maintaining a sterile field in the operating room is critical to preventing infection. The process begins with cleaning the surgical site and draping it with sterile towels. A sterile table is then brought in and covered with sterile drapes. The surgical team then scrubs and gowns, and puts on sterile gloves. The instruments are then opened and placed on the sterile table. The surgical team must be careful not to touch anything that is not sterile, and they must follow all of the sterile technique protocols.

2. How do you prepare surgical instruments for use?

Sterilization

• Clean instruments thoroughly with soap and water.
• Soak instruments in a sterilizing solution.
• Rinse instruments with sterile water.
• Dry instruments with a sterile towel.

Assembly

• Assemble instruments according to the surgeon’s instructions.
• Check instruments for sharpness and proper function.

3. What are the key responsibilities of a surgery technician during an operation?

The key responsibilities of a surgery technician during an operation include:

• Setting up and maintaining a sterile field
• Preparing surgical instruments
• Assisting the surgeon with the operation
• Monitoring the patient’s vital signs
• Providing supplies and equipment to the surgeon
• Cleaning and sterilizing the operating room after the operation

4. How do you prioritize your tasks in a busy operating room environment?

1. Emergencies
2. Surgeon’s requests
3. Patient’s needs
4. Administrative tasks

In addition to these priorities, surgery technicians also need to be aware of the time constraints of the operation and the need to keep the operating room running smoothly.

5. How do you deal with stress in the operating room?

Working in the operating room can be stressful, but surgery technicians need to be able to remain calm and focused under pressure. Some tips for dealing with stress in the operating room include:

• Be prepared. Know your responsibilities and the steps of the operation.
• Stay organized. Keep your work area clean and your supplies within reach.
• Communicate effectively. Let the surgeon and other members of the surgical team know what you are doing and what you need.
• Take breaks. Step away from the operating table for a few minutes to clear your head.
• Talk to someone. If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to the surgeon, a nurse, or another member of the surgical team.

6. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a surgery technician?

Strengths

• Excellent technical skills
• Strong knowledge of surgical procedures
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Calm and focused under pressure

Weaknesses

• I am still relatively new to the field of surgery, so I do not have as much experience as some other surgery technicians.
• I can sometimes be a bit too detail-oriented, which can slow me down at times.

7. Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult patient or family member.

I was working as a scrub tech in the operating room when a patient’s family member became very upset and demanding. The patient was going into surgery for a serious illness, and the family member was worried about the outcome. I took the family member aside and listened to their concerns. I explained the surgery in detail and answered their questions. I also reassured them that the surgeon was very experienced and that the patient was in good hands. The family member was still worried, but they were more understanding after talking to me.

8. What are your career goals?

• Short-term goal: To become a certified surgical technologist.
• Long-term goal: To become a surgical first assistant.

I am passionate about surgery and I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge. I am confident that I have the skills and dedication to achieve my career goals.

9. Why are you interested in this position?

I am interested in this position because it is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to use my skills and knowledge to help others. I am passionate about surgery and I am always looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge. I am confident that I have the skills and dedication to be a successful surgery technician.

10. What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful surgery technician?

• Technical skills
• Knowledge of surgical procedures
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Calm and focused under pressure

I believe that I possess all of these qualities and that I would be a valuable asset to your team.

Surgery Technicians are allied health professionals who perform a variety of tasks to support surgical procedures. They work closely with surgeons, nurses, and other members of the surgical team to ensure that patients receive safe and efficient care.

1. Preparing the Operating Room

Surgery Technicians are responsible for preparing the operating room for surgery. This includes setting up the surgical table, positioning equipment, and ensuring that all necessary supplies are available.

• Set up the surgical table and position the patient.
• Prepare and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment.
• Drape the patient and the surgical field.
• Assist the surgeon with gowning and gloving.

2. Assisting the Surgeon

Surgery Technicians assist the surgeon throughout the surgical procedure. They may hold retractors, suction fluids, or pass instruments to the surgeon.

• Hold retractors to expose the surgical site.
• Suction fluids and blood from the surgical field.
• Pass instruments to the surgeon.
• Assist with suturing and wound closure.

3. Monitoring the Patient

Surgery Technicians monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the surgical procedure. They may also observe the patient for any signs of complications.

• Monitor the patient’s vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respirations.
• Observe the patient for any signs of complications, such as bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions.
• Report any changes in the patient’s condition to the surgeon or nurse.

4. Cleaning and Sterilizing Equipment

Surgery Technicians are responsible for cleaning and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment after each use. This helps to prevent the spread of infection.

• Clean and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment.
• Maintain the operating room and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.
• Dispose of medical waste properly.

Preparing for a surgery technician interview can be daunting, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Here are a few tips to help you ace your interview:

1. Research the Position and Company

Before you go to your interview, it’s important to do your research. This includes learning about the specific position you’re applying for, as well as the company itself.

• Visit the company’s website to learn about their mission, values, and culture.
• Read online reviews to see what other employees have said about working for the company.

2. Practice Your Answers to Common Interview Questions

There are a few common interview questions that you’re likely to be asked. Take some time to practice your answers to these questions so that you can deliver them confidently and clearly.

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why are you interested in this position?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

3. Be Prepared to Talk About Your Experience and Skills

The interviewer will want to know about your experience and skills as a surgery technician. Be prepared to talk about your previous experience in the field, as well as your skills and abilities.

• Highlight your experience in preparing the operating room, assisting the surgeon, monitoring the patient, and cleaning and sterilizing equipment.
• Discuss your skills in using surgical instruments and equipment, as well as your ability to work as part of a team.

4. Dress Professionally and Arrive on Time

First impressions matter, so it’s important to dress professionally for your interview. You should also arrive on time for your interview. This shows the interviewer that you’re serious about the position and that you respect their time.

• Wear a suit or business casual attire.
• Be on time for your interview.
• Be polite and respectful to everyone you meet.