Top 10 Questions for Operating Room Surgical Technician (OR St) Interview

1. Can you describe the steps involved in preparing the operating room for a surgical procedure?

Sure, here are the steps involved in preparing the operating room for a surgical procedure:

• Verify the surgical schedule and confirm the procedure and patient information.
• Check the operating room for cleanliness and proper equipment.
• Set up the operating table and other necessary equipment according to the surgeon’s instructions.
• Prepare and arrange surgical instruments and supplies on the sterile field.
• Assist the surgical team in donning sterile gowns and gloves.
• Create a sterile field around the surgical site.

2. What are the key responsibilities of an Operating Room Surgical Technician during a surgical procedure?

Circulating responsibilities

• Maintain a sterile environment throughout the procedure.
• Monitor the surgical field and provide assistance to the surgeon as needed.
• Manage the flow of supplies and equipment during the procedure.
• Maintain accurate records of supplies used and any unusual occurrences.
• Communicate with the surgical team and other healthcare professionals as necessary.

Scrub responsibilities

• Assist the surgeon with the surgical procedure by providing instruments and supplies.
• Maintain a sterile field around the surgical site.
• Anticipate the surgeon’s needs and provide assistance before being asked.
• Ensure the proper functioning of all surgical equipment.

3. How do you ensure the safety and well-being of patients during a surgical procedure?

Ensuring the safety and well-being of patients during a surgical procedure is of paramount importance. Here are some key measures I take to achieve this:

• строго adhere to established safety protocols and guidelines.
• Maintain a sterile environment throughout the procedure to prevent infections.
• Handle and use surgical instruments and equipment with precision and care.
• Monitor the patient’s vital signs and alert the surgical team to any changes or concerns.
• Assist in positioning the patient safely and comfortably.
• Communicate effectively with the surgical team to anticipate and address any potential issues.

4. What is your approach to managing and tracking surgical instruments and supplies?

Efficient management and tracking of surgical instruments and supplies are crucial to ensure a smooth and safe surgical procedure. Here’s my approach:

• Maintain a comprehensive inventory of all instruments and supplies.
• Utilize a system to track the usage and location of each item.
• Regularly inspect and maintain instruments to ensure they are in optimal working condition.
• Monitor and manage the proper storage and sterilization of instruments and supplies.
• Collaborate with the surgical team to anticipate and prepare the necessary instruments and supplies for each procedure.

5. How do you handle emergency situations that may arise during a surgical procedure?

In the event of an emergency situation during a surgical procedure, I remain calm and composed while taking swift and decisive action:

• Assess the situation and identify the immediate threat to the patient.
• Alert the surgical team and relevant personnel.
• Assist the surgeon in managing the emergency, such as controlling bleeding or administering medications.
• Retrieve and prepare any necessary equipment or supplies.
• Maintain a sterile field and assist in creating a safe environment for the patient.
• Document the emergency and any actions taken.

6. What is your understanding of aseptic technique, and how do you apply it in the operating room?

Aseptic technique is a set of practices designed to prevent contamination and maintain a sterile environment during surgical procedures. I strictly adhere to aseptic technique by:

• Thoroughly scrubbing my hands and forearms before entering the operating room.
• Wearing sterile gloves, gowns, and masks.
• Using sterile instruments and supplies.
• Creating and maintaining a sterile field around the surgical site.
• Properly handling and disposing of contaminated materials.

7. Can you explain the role of teamwork and communication in the operating room?

Teamwork and communication are essential in the operating room to ensure patient safety and a successful procedure:

• I actively participate in pre-operative briefings to understand the procedure and anticipate potential needs.
• Communicate effectively with the surgeon, nurses, and other surgical team members.
• Provide timely and clear information regarding the patient’s condition, instrument requirements, and any concerns.
• Respect and value the contributions of all team members.
• Maintain a positive and professional demeanor to foster a collaborative environment.

8. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in surgical technology and best practices?

Staying current with the latest advancements in surgical technology and best practices is crucial for providing optimal patient care:

• Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs.
• Read medical journals and research papers.
• Network with other surgical professionals.
• Utilize online resources and continuing education platforms.
• Actively participate in quality improvement initiatives and peer review processes.

9. How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively in the fast-paced environment of the operating room?

Prioritizing tasks and effectively managing time are essential in the demanding environment of the operating room:

• Assess the urgency and importance of each task.
• Create a mental or written checklist to keep track of responsibilities.
• Delegate tasks to other team members when appropriate.
• Avoid distractions and focus on the most critical tasks at hand.
• Communicate any potential delays or challenges to the surgical team.

10. Describe a situation where you faced a challenging patient or family member and how you handled it.

In the operating room, it’s important to maintain professionalism and composure when interacting with challenging patients or family members:

• I approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
• Listen attentively to their concerns and provide clear and informative responses.
• Use active listening techniques to demonstrate that I am engaged and trying to understand their perspective.
• Involve the surgeon or other healthcare team members as needed to address specific questions or provide support.
• Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor, even in stressful situations.

Operating Room Surgical Technicians (OR STs) are vital members of the surgical team, responsible for assisting in a wide range of surgical procedures. Their primary duties include:

1. Assisting the Surgeons

OR STs work closely with surgeons, assisting them with various tasks throughout the surgery. They may hold retractors, suction excess fluid or tissue, and pass instruments and supplies as needed.

2. Preparing and Maintaining the Operating Room

OR STs are responsible for preparing the operating room prior to surgery, ensuring that all necessary equipment and supplies are available and in proper working order. They also maintain the sterility of the operating environment throughout the procedure.

3. Monitoring the Patient’s Condition

OR STs closely observe the patient’s condition during surgery, monitoring vital signs and reporting any changes to the surgeon. They may also assist with patient positioning and comfort measures.

4. Assisting with Wound Closure

Once the surgical procedure is complete, OR STs assist with wound closure, dressing, and bandaging. They may also provide postoperative care instructions to the patient and family.

Preparing thoroughly for an interview is crucial for success. Here are some helpful tips for candidates applying for an OR ST position:

1. Research the Hospital and Position

Before the interview, take time to research the hospital where you are applying, as well as the specific role you are interested in. This will help you understand the hospital’s culture, values, and surgical focus, which you can then highlight in your responses.

2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

Prepare for common interview questions by practicing your answers. Consider questions related to your technical skills, patient care experience, and teamwork ability. You can use the Example Outline below as a guide for structuring your answers:

Example Outline:

• Tell me about your experience in the operating room.
• Describe a challenging situation you encountered in the OR and how you handled it.
• How do you prioritize your tasks in a fast-paced environment?
• Why are you interested in working at this hospital?
• What are your career goals?

3. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your relevant skills and experience during the interview. Showcase your proficiency in sterile technique, surgical instrument handling, and patient care. If you have any certifications or training related to operating room procedures, be sure to highlight them.

4. Be Professional and Enthusiastic

Dress professionally and arrive on time for your interview. Be polite and respectful to the interviewer and other staff members. Show enthusiasm for the position and convey your passion for working in the operating room environment.