Dear ST students…
The OR teaches lessons you won’t always find in a textbook.
The students who stand out aren’t the ones who know everything—they’re the ones who come prepared, protect the sterile field, communicate clearly, and stay eager to learn.
If you’re a surgical tech student, focus on building habits before confidence. The confidence will come with experience.
What’s one piece of advice you’ve received that changed the way you work in the OR?
As someone who has spent extensive time in the operating room as a surgical tech, I can personally attest to how small habits make a huge difference in performance and team trust. One critical lesson I learned early on was the importance of being thoroughly prepared before the case begins. This means not only reviewing the procedure steps but also familiarizing yourself with the surgeon's preference card so you can anticipate every instrument needed without being asked. Sterility is another pillar of success. In my experience, if there’s ever any doubt about whether something is contaminated, it’s better to speak up immediately and request a replacement—even if it seems inconvenient. This proactive approach safeguards patient safety and earns respect from the entire OR team. I’ve found that surgeons especially appreciate when techs are vigilant about this. Communication can truly make or break a case. I always remind myself that it’s okay not to know everything right away. Asking questions when uncertain and promptly admitting mistakes helps build a transparent culture that ultimately benefits the patient. Remaining calm under pressure is equally vital; the OR environment can be intense, but maintaining composure helps others stay focused and confident. Lastly, every surgery is a chance to learn something new—even when you’re not scrubbed in, simply observing and absorbing the workflow and communication styles trains your instincts. Over time, these experiences build into the confidence needed to excel in this demanding yet rewarding profession. For fellow surgical tech students, adopting these habits early on will prepare you not just for passing exams but thriving on the job from day one.
