Surgical Assistant

What does a Surgical Assistant do?

Physicians and other primary care providers often depend upon a variety of trained technologists, aides and assistants. A description of a surgical assistant follows:

Surgical assistants aid the surgeon in performing surgical procedures, positioning patients for surgery, draping and preparing the operative site, and retracting and exposing the operative field during the procedure. The surgical assistant secures the best possible exposure of the anatomy incident to the operative procedure. The skilled surgical assistant anticipates the moves and needs of the surgeon.

What might a Surgical Assistant do in a workday?

Surgical assistants:

• confirm procedures with surgeons.
• determine specific equipment needed per procedure.
• review permit to confirm procedure and special needs.
• clamp and cut tissue per surgeon’s directive.
• maintain integrity of sterile field.
• perform any other duties or procedures incident to the surgical procedure deemed necessary and as directed by the surgeon.

Developing a Career as a Surgical Assistant

The surgical assistant also performs preoperative and postoperative duties to better facilitate proper patient care. During the operation, the surgical assistant works under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. Certified surgical assistants assist in a variety of surgical specialties.

How much salary do Surgical Assistants make?

Annual Mean Wage
$45,090

How do I become a Surgical Assistant?

It is preferred that those interested in becoming a certified surgical assistant complete baccalaureate education in the area of biology, chemistry, nursing, exercise science or allied health. Prior operating experience is not required as an entry requirement to the surgical assisting program.