Surgical Technology Degree
Associate of Science Degree

1. Able to stand, bend, stoop, and/or sit for long periods of time in one location with minimum/no breaks.
2. Able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds. (this is 50 pounds at most health systems for hiring)
3. Able to refrain from nourishment or restroom breaks for periods up to 6 hours.
4. Demonstrate sufficient visual ability enough to load a fine (10-0) suture onto needles and needle holders with/without corrective lenses and while wearing safety glasses.
5. Demonstrate sufficient peripheral vision to anticipate and function while in the sterile surgical environment.
6. Hear and understand muffled communication without visualization of the communicator's mouth/lips and within 20 feet.
7. Hear activation/warning signals on equipment.
8. Able to detect odors sufficient to maintain environmental safety and patient needs.
9. Manipulate instruments, supplies and equipment with speed, dexterity, and good eye-hand coordination.
10. Ambulate/move around without assistive devices.
11. Able to assist with and/or lift, move, position, and manipulate the patient who is unconscious with or without assistive devices.
12. Communicate and understand fluent English both verbally and in writing.
13. To be free of reportable communicable diseases and chemical abuse.
14. Able to demonstrate immunity (natural or artificial) to Rubella, Rubeola, Tuberculosis, and Hepatitis B, or be vaccinated against these diseases, or willing to sign a waiver of release of liability regarding these diseases.
15. Possess short-and long-term memory sufficient to perform tasks such as, but not limited to, mentally tracking surgical supplies and performing anticipation skills intraoperatively.
16. Able to make appropriate judgment decisions
17. Demonstrate the use of positive coping skills under stress.
18. Demonstrate calm and effective responses, especially in emergency situations.
19. Exhibit positive interpersonal skills during patient, staff, and faculty interactions.

Occupational Hazards

Occupational Hazards for a Surgical Technologist working in the Operating Room (OR)

1. Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens – Risk of infection from exposure to blood and bodily fluids (HIV, Hepatitis B & C).
2. Sharps Injuries – Accidental cuts or punctures from scalpels, needles, and other sharp instruments.
3. Surgical Smoke Inhalation – Exposure to toxic smoke produced by electrocautery or laser surgery.
4. Latex Allergy – Allergic reactions due to frequent contact with latex gloves and equipment.
5. Chemical Exposure – Contact with disinfectants, sterilizing agents (glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde), and anesthesia gases.
6. Musculoskeletal Injuries – Strains and injuries from standing for long periods, lifting patients, or handling heavy surgical equipment.
7. Slips, Trips, and Falls – Wet floors, cluttered workspaces, or fast-paced environments increase the risk of falls.
8. Radiation Exposure – Risk from frequent use of X-rays, fluoroscopy, and other imaging equipment.
9. Noise Exposure – High levels of noise from surgical instruments, alarms, and equipment can contribute to hearing loss over time.
10. Burns – Contact with hot instruments, cautery devices, or sterilization equipment.
11. Eye Injuries – Risk from splashes of bodily fluids, chemicals, or debris during surgery.
12. Fatigue and Stress – Long shifts, high-pressure situations, and emergency procedures can lead to burnout and mental health issues.
13. Electrical Hazards – Malfunctioning equipment, frayed cords, or improper use of electrical devices pose a risk of shock.
14. Inhalation of Anesthetic Gases – Potential exposure to waste anesthetic gases, which can have long-term health effects.
15. Workplace Violence – Risk of aggressive behavior from patients, family members, or stressed colleagues in high-stress situations.

Surgical technologists must follow proper safety protocols, use protective equipment, and stay vigilant to minimize these risks in the operating room.

Background check: Clinical facilities require that Nebraska Methodist College perform drug testing and background checks on all students before they are allowed to participate in clinical experiences. Therefore, students will be required to have a background check performed and submit to drug screening before being allowed into clinical practice.

It is your responsibility to understand the duties, responsibilities, skills and abilities required for your chose program/profession. In addition to the technical standards as described above, please review the information regarding Surgical Technology at the O*NET website here.