Section 259.001 - Definitions In this chapter:
(1) "Department" means the Department of State Health Services.(2) "Surgical technologist" means a person who practices surgical technology.(3) "Surgical technology" means intraoperative surgical patient care as follows: (A) preparing the operating room for surgical procedures by ensuring that surgical equipment is functioning properly and safely;(B) preparing the operating room and the sterile field for surgical procedures by preparing sterile supplies, instruments, and equipment using sterile technique;(C) anticipating the needs of the surgical team based on knowledge of human anatomy and pathophysiology and how they relate to the surgical patient and the patient's surgical procedure;(D) as directed in an operating room setting, performing the following tasks at the sterile field: (i) passing supplies, equipment, or instruments;(ii) sponging or suctioning an operative site;(iii) preparing and cutting suture material;(iv) transferring and pouring irrigation fluids;(v) transferring but not administering drugs within the sterile field;(vii) holding retractors and other instruments;(viii) applying electrocautery to clamps on bleeders;(ix) connecting drains to suction apparatus;(x) applying dressings to closed wounds; and(xi) assisting in counting sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments with the registered nurse circulator;(E) cleaning and preparing instruments for sterilization on completion of the surgery; and(F) assisting the surgical team with cleaning of the operating room on completion of the surgery.Tex. Health and Safety Code § 259.001
Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 321, Sec. 1, eff. 9/1/2009.