Associate of Applied Science Degree in Surgical Technology
ObjectivesThe Surgical Technologist plays a vital role as a member of the Health Care team in the Operating Room (OR). Theory and practical application in the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology of the body systems are taught. Students are introduced to the Operating Room environment engage in "hands-on" training with regard to sterilization, surgical equipment and supplies, instruments and case set-ups. Students are also taught proper surgical aseptic procedures. Moreover, students practice specific surgical procedures throughout the program of study. This program equips the graduate with skills and knowledge necessary to meet the requirements of an entry-level Surgical Technologist. This program provides the background that enables a student to assume a responsible entry-level position as a member of the Health Care team in a hospital or surgical center. Surgical skills as well as laboratory procedures are taught to meet the requirements of the operating room. Graduates of the program receive a Diploma in preparation for a position as a Surgical Technologist.
Course descriptionGraduates of these programs are eligible to sit for the NCCT (National Center for Competency Testing) Certification Examination, Tech in Surgery Certified, TS-C.
Classroom procedures
Each course stands alone as a unit of study and is not dependent upon prerequisite training. A student may enter the program at the beginning of any course and continue through the sequence until completion of all courses.
Externship
The externship is undertaken following the successful completion of all classroom training and consists of 500 clock hours, averaging eight hours a day. Students work in a hospital, surgicenter or private physician's office. During the externship, the student is allowed to assist surgeons during surgery in the operating room. The student is able to perform the skills taught during the classroom portion of training. This externship is unpaid.