Top 10 Questions for Surgical Scrub Technologist (Surgical Scrub Tech) Interview

1. Describe the sterile field and unsterile field in the operating room (OR).

The sterile field is the area within the OR that is free of microorganisms. It includes the surgical table, the surgical instruments, the surgical drapes, and the surgical gowns and gloves worn by the surgical team. The unsterile field is the area outside the sterile field that may contain microorganisms. It includes the floor, the walls, the ceiling, and the equipment used to transport patients and supplies into and out of the OR.

2. What are the different types of surgical instruments and their uses?

Sutures

• Used to close wounds and hold tissues together.
• Come in a variety of materials, sizes, and shapes.

Staples

• Used to close wounds and hold tissues together.
• Faster and easier to apply than sutures.

Electrocautery

• Used to cut and cauterize tissue.
• Can be used to control bleeding and remove tumors.

Lasers

• Used to cut and cauterize tissue.
• More precise than electrocautery and can be used in delicate areas.

Robotics

• Used to perform complex surgeries with greater precision and control.
• Can be used to reach areas that are difficult to access with traditional surgical instruments.

3. What are the steps involved in setting up the sterile field?

• Clean the surgical table and surrounding area with a disinfectant.
• Place a sterile drape over the surgical table.
• Open the sterile instruments and place them on the sterile drape.
• Put on sterile gloves and gowns.
• Create a sterile boundary around the surgical field using sterile drapes.

4. What are the important considerations when choosing a surgical instrument?

• The type of surgery being performed.
• The size and location of the incision.
• The type of tissue being cut or manipulated.
• The surgeon’s preference.

5. What are the different types of surgical dressings and their uses?

Gauze

• Used to absorb blood and other fluids.
• Can be used to pack wounds or cover incisions.

Bandages

• Used to hold dressings in place and protect wounds.
• Come in a variety of materials and sizes.

Sutures

• Used to close wounds and hold tissues together.
• Come in a variety of materials, sizes, and shapes.

Staples

• Used to close wounds and hold tissues together.
• Faster and easier to apply than sutures.

Skin adhesives

• Used to close small wounds and incisions.
• Less painful and more convenient than sutures or staples.

6. What are the different types of surgical drains and their uses?

Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain

• Used to drain fluid from a surgical wound.
• Consists of a bulb and tubing that is inserted into the wound.

Hemovac drain

• Used to drain fluid from a surgical wound.
• Consists of a canister and tubing that is inserted into the wound.

Penrose drain

• Used to drain fluid from a surgical wound.
• Consists of a long, flat piece of rubber that is inserted into the wound.

7. What are the different types of surgical gowns and their uses?

Disposable gowns

• Used for short procedures and minor surgeries.
• Made of a lightweight, non-sterile material.

Reusable gowns

• Used for longer procedures and major surgeries.
• Made of a heavier, sterile material.

Isolation gowns

• Used to protect the wearer from exposure to infectious agents.
• Made of a fluid-resistant material.

8. What are the different types of surgical gloves and their uses?

Latex gloves

• The most common type of surgical glove.
• Made from natural rubber latex.
• Provide good protection from blood and other fluids.

Nitrile gloves

• An alternative to latex gloves for people who are allergic to latex.
• Made from synthetic rubber.
• Provide good protection from blood and other fluids.

Neoprene gloves

• Another alternative to latex gloves.
• Made from synthetic rubber.
• Provide good protection from chemicals and solvents.

9. What are the different types of surgical masks and their uses?

Procedure masks

• Used to protect the wearer from exposure to respiratory droplets.
• Made of a lightweight, non-sterile material.

Surgical masks

• Used to protect the wearer from exposure to blood and other bodily fluids.
• Made of a heavier, sterile material.

Respirators

• Used to protect the wearer from exposure to airborne hazards.
• Made of a variety of materials, including rubber, plastic, and metal.

10. What are the different types of surgical caps and their uses?

Bouffant caps

• Disposable caps that cover the hair and ears.
• Used to prevent hair and skin flakes from falling into the surgical field.

Skull caps

• Reusable caps that fit snugly around the head.
• Used to prevent hair and skin flakes from falling into the surgical field.

Berets

• Caps that are worn over the hair and ears.
• Used to prevent hair and skin flakes from falling into the surgical field.

Surgical Scrub Technologists (Surgical Scrub Techs), hold a wide array of responsibilities in the operating room, including:

1. Pre-Operation Preparation

Preparing the operating room for surgery, including setting up and checking surgical instruments and equipment.

2. Sterilization and Asepsis

Sterilizing surgical instruments and maintaining a sterile environment throughout the surgery.

• Adhering to strict aseptic techniques to prevent the introduction of infection into the surgical site.
• Monitoring the sterilization process and ensuring the proper functioning of sterilization equipment.

3. Assisting the Surgical Team

Assisting the surgeon and other members of the surgical team during the surgery, such as passing instruments and suctioning the surgical site.

• Anticipating the needs of the surgeon and providing necessary instruments and supplies.
• Maintaining a clear and organized surgical field by removing soiled instruments and excess fluids.

4. Post-Operation Cleanup

Cleaning and disinfecting the operating room and surgical instruments after surgery.

• Disposing of biohazardous waste and ensuring proper disposal of surgical specimens.
• Maintaining a clean and safe environment for subsequent surgeries.

5. Communication and Teamwork

Communicating effectively with the surgical team and other healthcare professionals.

• Providing clear and concise information to the surgeon and other team members.
• Working collaboratively with the surgical team to ensure the smooth and efficient flow of the surgery.

Preparing thoroughly for the interview can significantly increase your chances of success.

1. Research the Position

Research the specific role and the healthcare facility you are applying for.

• Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s mission, values, and recent achievements.
• Understand the scope of responsibilities for the surgical scrub tech position within the facility.

2. Practice Your Responses

Anticipate potential interview questions and prepare your answers.

• Review common interview questions and develop concise, informative responses.
• Practice delivering your answers out loud to improve your articulation and confidence.

3. Dress Professionally

First impressions matter, so dress professionally for your interview.

• Wear clean, pressed attire, such as a suit or business casual clothing.
• Pay attention to grooming and ensure your appearance is neat and polished.

4. Arrive on Time

Punctuality demonstrates respect for the interviewer’s time and the interview process.

• Plan your route and allow ample time for any unexpected delays.
• If you do encounter unexpected circumstances, call or email the interviewer promptly to inform them.

5. Follow Up

Following up after the interview shows your continued interest in the position.

• Send a thank-you note within 24 hours, expressing your gratitude for the interviewer’s time.
• Inquire about the next steps in the hiring process and reiterate your interest in the position.