BackTable / ENT / Podcast / Episode #300
The OR Scrub Tech in Pediatric ENT
with Jose Flores
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.
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BackTable, LLC (Producer). (2025, November 11). Ep. 300 – The OR Scrub Tech in Pediatric ENT [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from https://www.backtable.com
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Podcast Contributors
Synopsis
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.
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
Jose Flores’s Story:
https://vimeo.com/1096085041
The Materials available on BackTable are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.




