Scrub Nurse vs. Surgical Tech: What’s the Difference?
In the high-stakes world of the operating room, where precision and teamwork are key, two essential roles play an important part in the seamless execution of surgical procedures: the scrub nurse and the surgical tech. But what sets these two professions apart?
Scrub nurses, also called operative or perioperative nurses, manage the overall flow and coordination in the operating room, while the surgical techs focus on handling and passing the instruments during surgery. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the distinctions between these roles, shedding light on their unique responsibilities, skill sets, and invaluable contributions they have to the surgical team.
What Is a Scrub Nurse?
Scrub nurses are specialized registered nurses who play an important role in the operating room during surgical procedures. These nurses work closely with surgeons, surgical techs, and other members of the operating room team to contribute to the success and safety of surgical procedures. Some of their key responsibilities are:
- Coordinating logistics: They coordinate and manage overall operating room logistics for a smooth workflow.
- Overseeing instrument sterilization: They oversee the sterilization and proper handling of surgical instruments.
- Reviewing medical charts: They thoroughly review patients’ medical histories, allergies, and other relevant information before the surgery.
- Administering medication: They may administer medications before, during, or after surgery as prescribed by the medical team.
- Collecting medical samples: They may draw labs throughout the surgical procedure for analysis and monitoring.
- Following safety checks: They conduct safety checks before and during the operation to maintain a secure surgical environment and ensure patients’ safety.
- Monitoring health status: They vigilantly monitor patients’ vital signs and health signals to detect any potential complications during surgery.
- Advocating for patients: They advocate for the patients’ well-being during the surgical process.
- Documenting the process: They adhere to documentation best practices, such as maintaining accurate records of procedures, instruments used, and other relevant information.
What Is a Surgical Tech?
Now, you might be asking yourself, “What do surgical techs do?” The key responsibilities of these operation room professionals are:
- Preparing surgical instruments: They sterilize and organize surgical instruments required for procedures.
- Preparing patients for surgery: They may be responsible for shaving and performing other essential tasks to ready a patient for surgery.
- Managing equipment: They ensure proper functioning and availability of equipment in the operating room.
- Assisting surgeons: They anticipate and fulfill the requirements of the surgical team.
- Handling equipment: They pass instruments and supplies to surgeons during surgery.
- Adhering to aseptic techniques: They adhere to aseptic techniques to maintain a sterile surgical environment.
These differences highlight the specific areas of focus for each role, with surgical techs concentrating on instrument preparation and assistance to surgeons, while scrub nurses taking care of broader tasks like surgery coordination, patient care, and maintaining a sterile environment. However, in the real world, their responsibilities may overlap. Have a look at a sample scrub nurse job description template for more insight.
How to Become a Scrub Nurse
Becoming a scrub nurse involves a combination of education, training, and gaining practical experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Pursue a Nursing Degree
Enroll in a nursing program to earn either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. BSN programs may offer a broader educational foundation.
2. Get a Nursing License
After completing your nursing program, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to become a licensed registered nurse (RN).
3. Gain Clinical Experience
Work as a registered nurse to gain clinical experience, ideally in areas such as med-surg nursing, progressive care, or acute care. This experience will provide you with a solid foundation for transitioning into the operative room career.
4. Earn a CNOR Certification
Consider obtaining certification as a Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) through the Competency and Credentialing Institute. While certification is not always mandatory, it can advance your career possibilities.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Scrub Nurse?
Considering these steps, it takes about four to six years, depending on your program, clinical practice time, and extra training. The fastest way to become a nurse is by completing an associate degree in nursing program, which may take as little as 16 months.
How to Become a Surgical Tech
Becoming a surgical tech requires fewer steps than becoming an operating room registered nurse. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Earn a Degree or Certificate
Apply and enroll in a relevant educational program. To qualify for such a program, all you need is a high school diploma or equivalent. These programs typically lead to a diploma, certificate, or associate degree.
2. Gain Experience
After completing your surgical tech program, you are all set to start looking for job opportunities in hospitals, surgical centers, or other healthcare facilities.
3. Apply for Certification
Consider applying for certification through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) to become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).
Remember that specific requirements may vary by location and institution, so always check with relevant licensing boards and potential employers for the most accurate and current information.
Surgical Tech vs. Scrub Nurse Salary
When comparing earnings in the healthcare field, registered nurses earn $89,010 annually, while the average surgical tech salary is notably lower at $57,500.
Top 5 highest-paying states for RNs:
Top 5 highest-paying states for surgical techs:
Overall employment for RNs, including scrub nurses, is projected to grow 6% in the next 10 years — faster than the average. The job growth for surgical techs, in contrast, is expected to grow 5% in the same time frame.
Find Nursing Jobs You Love
Now that you know the key difference between a scrub nurse vs. surgical tech, you’re ready for the next exciting step in your nursing journey — job application. We can help you find work you love. Learn how IntelyCare can match you with nursing jobs that suit your unique talents and preferences.