Course Details

This course provides the student with the necessary skills to interpret and define medical terminology, to be successful in the pursuit of health occupation careers. This is accomplished by utilizing a method of study that not only instructs the students in building medical terms but also gives the student immediate application in using the medical term.

Anatomy and Physiology I will introduce the basic structure and function of the human body. During this course, you will examine organs and organ systems. You also will be introduced to the pathophysiological changes that can disrupt normal homeostasis. These concepts are crucial to understanding the necessity and processes of medical and surgical intervention and the effect this intervention has on the body. As part of this course, students will recognize the anatomy and physiology of body systems, discuss the typical effects of aging on body systems, identify common pathology/diseases, and recognize diagnostic/treatment modalities.

Anatomy and Physiology will introduce the basic structure and function of the human body. During this course, students will examine organs and organ systems. Students also will be introduced to the pathophysiological changes that can disrupt normal homeostasis. These concepts are crucial to understanding the necessity and processes of medical and surgical intervention and the effect this intervention has on the body. As part of this course, students will recognize the anatomy and physiology of all body systems, discuss the typical effects of aging on all body systems, identify common pathology/diseases, and recognize diagnostic/treatment modalities.

Students enrolled in this course will be introduced to the Surgical Technology profession and will develop the fundamental concepts and principles necessary to successfully participate as a member of the surgical team. Emphasis is placed on the team approach to surgical patient care. This course will also include information on specific population groups and will assist the surgical technologist in anticipating special needs and equipment that may be necessary.

Students enrolled in this course will be introduced to the fundamentals of Microbiology and the effect microorganisms have on both their everyday lives and health, particularly the health of patients in a healthcare setting. The course will continue to teach concepts of aseptic technique, creating and maintaining sterile fields, all hazards preparation, and the role in emergency situations. It will also cover the Surgical Technologist’s role in the administration of medications and solutions to the surgical patient and teach general terminology associated with pharmacology. The course will be completed with an eight-hour observation shift in an operating room.

Students enrolled in this course will continue to apply previously learned concepts of aseptic technique into the areas of creating and maintaining sterile fields. The introduction of suturing materials and the concepts of wound management, including dressings and drains, continue the student’s journey into the collection of accessory equipment and supplies used during surgery. Knowledge and skills utilized both for patient preparation for surgery and care during the procedure will be acquired during this course. This course includes 8 hours of on-site participation in a central processing department to apply concepts related to sterilization, instrument identification, and processing.

The Surgical Technology Lab I component of the program will introduce students to the basic "hands-on" skills that will be performed during the clinical/externship portion of this program. You will practice each skill set until he or she is safe, comfortable, and competent. The skillset will then be signed off by the lab instructor.

Students enrolled in this course will explore various surgical specialties including diagnostic procedures, minimally invasive surgery applications, general surgery, obstetric and gynecological surgery, ophthalmic surgery, otorhinolaryngologic surgery, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. They will review the anatomy and physiology of the body systems involved and learn the pathophysiological processes that require surgical intervention. The steps of the surgical procedures, patient preparation, and instrumentation specific to that particular surgery will be discussed.

The Surgical Technology Lab II component of the program will task the student with combining the basic skills that were learned in the previous lab component with more advanced skills. Students are now in the final preparation phase for entry into the clinical/externship portion of the program and must become competent and efficient with setting up for and anticipating the flow of activities that occur during a surgical procedure. In order to successfully complete this lab component and be scheduled to begin clinical externship, students are expected to perform all steps of the final lab skill assessment with no errors on two separate occasions.

Students enrolled in this course will explore various surgical specialties including plastic and reconstructive surgery, genitourinary surgery, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, peripheral vascular surgery, and neurosurgery. They will review the anatomy and physiology of the body systems involved and learn the pathophysiological processes that require surgical intervention. The steps of the surgical procedures, patient preparation, and instrumentation specific to that particular surgery will be discussed.

Introductory Surgical Practicum orients students to the clinical environment and provides experience with the basic skills required for the profession. Students will practice participating in routine, general, and specialty surgical procedures. This requires a total of 225 clock hours of documented clinical externship.

Advanced Surgical Practicum allows students to complete all required Surgical Technology procedures through active participation as a part of the surgical team in the clinical setting. This course requires a minimum of 4 days a week (8-hour days) clinical externship for a total of 270 clock hours.

Students have, at this point, acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to become employed as an entry-level Surgical Technologist. However, there is much more to a professional career than just “getting the job.” Professionalism implies that a worker demonstrates characteristics that will enable them to continue to progress and change with the career. This course discusses factors associated with making career decisions that can enhance a surgical technologist’s professional growth and success.

Job Seeking Skills explores how to prepare and successfully apply to potential career opportunities. During this course, you will be presented with essential job-seeking skills needed to find gainful employment.