Sec. 3. As used in this chapter, “surgical technology” means intraoperative surgical patient care that involves the following:

(1) Preparing the operating room for surgical procedures by:

(A) ensuring that surgical equipment is functioning properly and safely; and

(B) preparing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment using sterile technique.

(2) Anticipating the needs of the surgical team based on knowledge of human anatomy and pathophysiology relating to the surgical patient and the patient’s surgical procedure.

(3) Performing tasks in an operating room setting in the sterile field, including the following:

(A) Passing supplies, equipment, or instruments.

(B) Suctioning or sponging an operative site.

(C) Preparing and cutting suture material.

(D) Transferring and irrigating with fluids.

(E) Transferring, without administering, drugs within the sterile field.

(F) Handling specimens.

(G) Holding retractors.

(H) Assisting in counting sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments with an operating room circulator as allowed under section 6 of this chapter.

As added by P.L.97-2009, SEC.1.