§ 17-95-1002 — Definitions

As used in this subchapter: (1) "Surgical technologist" means an individual who performs the skills and techniques of surgical technology under the direction and supervision of a licensed practitioner other than in the course of practicing as a licensed healthcare professional; and (2) "Surgical technology" means surgical patient care that includes without limitation: (A) Preparing an operating room and a sterile field for surgical procedures by ensuring that surgical equipment is assembled and functioning properly and safely; (B) Preparing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment using sterile technique; (C) Performing tasks in a sterile field, including: (i) Maintaining asepsis and a sterile operating field; (ii) Passing supplies, equipment, or instruments according to the needs of the surgical team; (iii) Sponging or suctioning an operative site; (iv) Preparing and cutting suture material; (v) Providing irrigation solutions to the supervising physician and irrigating an operative site; (vi) Providing drugs within the sterile field for administration by the supervising physician; (vii) Handling specimens; (viii) Holding retractors and other instruments; (ix) Applying electrocautery to clamps on blood vessels; (x) Connecting drains to a suction apparatus; (xi) Applying dressings to closed wounds; and (xii) Performing counts of supplies such as sponges, needles, and instruments with the registered nurse circulator; and (D) The practice of surgical technology is a separate and distinct healthcare profession that does not include the practice of surgical assisting as performed by physician assistants, surgical assistants, or first assistants.

Legislative History

Added by Act 2017, No. 390,§ 1, eff. 8/1/2017.