Associate of Applied Science Degree in Surgical Technology
Course description
The 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 and become Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certified. In addition, students 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.
The Surgical Technologist 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 Diploma Program are prepared to seek a position as a Surgical Technologist. The Associate of Applied Science Degree Program provides graduates with necessary critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills. These skills, combined with the knowledge gained in this program and work experience, provide future opportunities in related supervisory roles and/or advanced surgical specialties in addition to the specific position as a Surgical Technologist.
The unpaid externship is undertaken following the successful completion of all classroom training. 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.