Surgical Technology

Surgical technology is a health science discipline in which the practitioner is specifically educated to be a member of the surgical team. The surgical technologist works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure the operating room environment is safe, all equipment functions properly, and the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

A surgical technologist possesses expertise in the theory and application of sterile and aseptic technique. As a respected and highly skilled member of the surgical team, this individual utilizes knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, surgical procedures and instrumentation to facilitate surgically performed invasive and diagnostic procedures. Students of the Surgical Technology program are required to take the national certified surgical technology examination provided by the National Board for Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting prior to graduation.

Program Description

The Surgical Technology program provides the student with classroom theory and supervised clinical and laboratory experience. Classroom instruction includes medical ethics, terminology, communication skills, anatomy, pathophysiology, microbiology and pharmacology. During the two-year program, students gain knowledge related to the principles of client care, asepsis and surgical procedures. In addition, the clinical practice component allows the student to build the skills and understanding necessary to become an integral member of the surgical team. Upon completion of the program, the surgical technology graduate is ready to assume entry-level responsibilities in a variety of surgical settings.

Class size is limited in order to provide the learner with individualized attention in a wide variety of surgical specialties. The student participates in surgical procedures that may include obstetrics and gynecology, genitourinary surgery, general surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery, otorhinolaryngology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, neurosurgery, peripheral vascular surgery, endoscopy and cardiothoracic surgery in the acute care setting.

Students in the Surgical Technology program earn an Associate in Applied Science degree. Prospective students who already hold an associate or baccalaureate degree and meet the program entry requirements may opt to complete the academic certificate program.

Mission

The mission of the Surgical Technology program is to provide quality didactic and clinical education in the cognitive, affective and psychomotor domains to a diverse student population and to provide well-educated, competent, entry-level technologists to the community.