September 15-21

National Surgical Technologists Week

Celebrate National Surgical Technologists Week and honor the experts who make surgeries safer. Their skill is our life's guarantee!

Type

Week

Introduction

Mark your calendars for September 15, because it's time to honor those unsung heroes of the operating room during National Surgical Technologists Week! Ever since surgical technologists became an essential part of healthcare teams in World War I, they've been working tirelessly in the background to ensure that surgeries go as planned. They're the pivot the surgical team revolves around, performing a wide range of critical duties in the operating room from prepping the room and arranging equipment, to assisting surgeons during the procedure and ensuring all safety protocols are followed. This week, we celebrate their skills, dedication, and the critical role they play in providing safe patient care. Remember, their expertise is our life's guarantee! So, let's celebrate and honor these valuable professionals.

National Surgical Technologists Week Timeline

1914

Surgical Technologists Emergence

During World War I, the need for medical personnel in battlefield situations led to the emergence of surgical technologists (then called "operating room technicians").

1941

World War II Expansion

World War II greatly expanded the role and importance of surgical technologists as medical advancements and complex procedures increased.

1968

Formal Education and Certification

The Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) was created to provide formal education and certification for surgical technologists.

1974

Certified Surgical Technologists

AST established the National Certified Surgical Technologist examination, further legitimizing the profession.

1984

First Surgical Technologists Week

The first National Surgical Technologists Week was celebrated, promoting recognition and appreciation for the profession.

How to Celebrate National Surgical Technologists Week

1 Send thank you notes

Take the time to write personal, handwritten thank you notes to the surgical technologists you know. These notes can express your appreciation for their hard work and dedication in ensuring that surgeries are safe and successful.

2 Host an appreciation lunch

Organize an appreciation lunch or a potluck party for the surgical tech team at your local hospital or clinic. This is a fun and delicious way to show your gratitude for their priceless contributions to healthcare.

3 Share stories on social media

Shine a light on the work of surgical technologists by sharing stories about them on social media. Share real-life stories about how they have impacted lives or interesting facts about their profession. Use the hashtag #SurgicalTechnologistsWeek to connect with others sharing similar stories.

4 Donate to surgical technology education

Consider making a donation to a school or program that educates surgical technologists. Your financial support can help future technologists pay for their training, ensuring the future of this vital profession.

5 Sponsor a professional development workshop

Surgical technologists are always looking to improve their skills and learn about the latest best practices. Sponsoring a professional development workshop or a seminar is an excellent way to support their continuing education.

Why National Surgical Technologists Week is Important

Acknowledgment of Crucial Contributions

National Surgical Technologists Week gives us the chance to acknowledge the often-unsung heroes of the surgical team. Their hard work and dedication behind-the-scenes ensure the safety and success of surgical procedures. This day enables us to show our appreciation towards them.

Promotes Educational Support

This observance encourages support for education in surgical technology. By highlighting this profession, we can inspire donations and sponsorships towards educational institutions training future surgical technologists, ensuring the upkeep and betterment of this critical medical field.

Inspires Continued Professional Development

National Surgical Technologists Week is a perfect time to support the ongoing professional development of those in the field. Sponsoring workshops and seminars are wonderful ways of encouraging surgical technologists to stay up-to-date and enhance their expertise, thereby, contributing more towards patient care and safety.