How to become an Operating Theatre Technician
Operating theatre technicians prepare and maintain operating theatres and equipment, assist surgical and anaesthetic teams during operations, and provide support to patients in recovery.
Personal requirements for an Operating Theatre Technician
- Good communication and people skills
- Attention to detail
- Able to work under pressure
- Able to work accurately and with minimal supervision
- Able to work as part of a team
- Organised and methodical
- Good general health and fitness
Education & Training for an Operating Theatre Technician
To become an operating theatre technician you usually have to complete a VET qualification. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.You can also become an operating theatre technician through a traineeship in Health Services Assistance. Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Duties & Tasks of an Operating Theatre Technician
Operating theatre technicians:
- Transport patients to and from the theatre and wards
- Assist in preparing operating rooms for surgery
- Set up, check, connect and adjust surgical equipment
- Provide technical assistance to surgeons, surgical nurses and anaesthetists
- Clean and restock the operating room, arranging instruments, supplies and equipment according to instruction
- Position patients for surgical and anaesthetic treatments.
Tasks
- Sets up, checks and maintains operating theatres, anaesthetic workstations, life support machines and associated equipment.
Working conditions for an Operating Theatre Technician
Operating theatre technicians usually work closely within a team in a restricted physical environment.
Employment Opportunities for an Operating Theatre Technician
Operating theatre technicians work in hospital or healthcare settings. Some work in day surgeries, endoscopy clinics and eye surgeries.With experience and further training, operating theatre technicians may progress to higher graded roles.
Specializations
Operating Theatre Technician
Operating theatre technicians prepare and maintain operating theatres and equipment, assist surgical and anaesthetic teams during operations, and provide support to patients in recovery.
Average age
47
Future Growth
N/A
Gender Share
24% female
Average full-time
41 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Medium skill
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
70%
Employment Size
1,400
Employment by state
ACT: 0.0%
NSW: 6.7%
NT: 0.8%
QLD: 9.2%
SA: 2.7%
TAS: 2.1%
VIC: 76.3%
WA: 2.2%
Age brackets
15-19: 0.4%
20-24: 5.5%
25-34: 16.5%
35-44: 23.4%
45-54: 30.2%
55-59: 14.6%
60-64: 7%
65 and Over: 2.5%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 10.1%
Bachelor degree: 12.8%
Certificate III/IV: 51.4%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 1.9%
Year 10 and below: 6%
Year 11: 3.9%
Year 12: 13.9%
