Surgical Assistant
Assist in operations, under the supervision of surgeons. May, in accordance with state laws, help surgeons to make incisions and close surgical sites, manipulate or remove tissues, implant surgical devices or drains, suction the surgical site, place catheters, clamp or cauterize vessels or tissue, and apply dressings to surgical site.
At a Glance
Surgical Assistant. Typical education: Bachelor's degree. Experience: 2.5 years. Top skills: Operating Room (OR), Surgery, Surgical Services.
Not available
Bachelor's degree
2.5 years
3
Parent Occupation (O*NET)
Surgical Assistants
Median Wage
$60,290/yr
Growth (2024-34)
+5.1%
Education
Postsecondary nondegree award
Skills & Requirements
Specialized Skills (19)
Operating Room (OR)
Surgery
Surgical Services
Patient Transport
Medical Surgical Nursing
Nursing
Anesthesia
Healthcare Industry Knowledge
Patient Positioning
Medication Administration
Minor Surgery
Billing
Sterile Products
Sanitation
Patient Communication
Asepsis
Productivity Management
Primary Care
Decontamination
Common Skills (8)
Teaching
Management
Communication
Scheduling
Cleanliness
Self-Discipline
Telephone Skills
Certifications (3)
Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)
Registered Nurse (RN)
Related Specializations
Other specialized occupations in this field. Many share overlapping skills, making lateral moves more accessible.
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
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