Surgical technologists, also known as surgical technicians or operating room technicians, are vital members of a surgical team. They perform all activities that create a safe and sterile environment. Prior to patient surgery, they may wash, shave, and disinfect the planned incision area. They also set up the surgical instruments and supplies in the operating room at the direction of surgeons and nurses.

Certification is often required as a condition of employment. To earn certification, operating room technicians must pass a nationally administered examination. They must be currently or previously certified or be a graduate of a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited program. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is the certifying agency. Renewal requires continuing education credits or retaking the certifying exam. There is also an advanced credential for surgical first assistants.

CST's prepare operating rooms for surgery, sterilize equipment, and ensure adequate supplies for surgery. They ready patients for surgery, and help surgeons by passing instruments and sterile supplies.

In the operating room, surgical technologists hand the sterile instruments to surgeons and first assistants. They may also hold retractors, hold internal organs in place during the surgery, or set up robotic O.R. equipment. CSTs may handle specimens for laboratory analysis.