Episode # 300 • 11 Nov 2025
The OR Scrub Tech in Pediatric ENT
with Jose Flores, Dr. Gopi Shah
Behind every smooth surgery is a team member you may not see in the spotlight—but without them, the operation doesn’t run. In this episode of the BackTable ENT podcast, Jose Flores, a surgical technologist at Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego and ENT service coordinator, joins host Dr. Gopi Shah to discuss the importance of the surgical technologist’s role in the OR and how it directly impacts patient care.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
01:29 - Jose Flores’s Journey to Becoming a Surgical Tech
05:41 - Daily Responsibilities and Preparation
10:11 - Communication and Teamwork in the OR
15:30 - Building Strong Surgical Tech Relationships
18:51 - Advice for New Surgical Techs
21:25 - The Role of Techs in Quality and Safety
23:15 - Giving and Receiving Feedback
27:02 - Fostering Respect and Recognition
30:40 - Final Thoughts and Contact Information
Resources
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More about this episode
Jose discusses his journey from being a medical assistant to finding his calling in the operating room, specifically in ENT. They explore the critical yet often overlooked role of OR scrub techs, the necessity of proper preparation and organization, and the importance of good communication and teamwork within the surgical team. Jose also shares personal experiences and advice for both new surgical techs and medical students, emphasizing the rewarding nature of working in pediatric ENT.
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