Associate in Applied Science in Surgical Technology

*Appropriate placement score or MATH 078 is prerequisite to ST 112.

Sufficient for clinical judgment. Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations (recognize, report, and correct unsafe practice by self or other team members), analyze and develop a plan of activity within an allotted time frame.

Sufficient for accurate and efficient interpretation and communication in English, both verbal and written for interaction with others. Explain procedures, responding to health care provider orders, write legibly and correctly. Computerization access skills.

Sufficient to interact with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, religious and intellectual backgrounds. Establish rapport with patients, families, peers and health team members. Perform effectively under stress, remain calm and alert. Advocate for the patient’s safety, legal and moral rights. Follow orders and directions as instructed, regardless of the manner in which it was delivered. Handle constructive criticism with a positive and professional attitude. Be honest and ethical. 

Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room, maneuver in small spaces, navigate stairwells and bending to retrieve items. Lifting (at least 30 lbs.), positioning and transporting patients. Moving efficiently to meet the needs of the patient and surgical team. Participate in care in emergency and nonemergency situations. Have full manual dexterity of the upper extremities, including the neck and shoulders, unrestricted movement of both lower extremities, back and hips and touch the floor and to be able to sit, bend, reach, walk and stand for most of the workday. Hold uncomfortable positions for extended periods of time. Effective strategies for controlling bodily functions such as sweat and urination.

Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe, effective and skilled care. Calibrate and use equipment, manipulating surgical instruments, sutures, and needles, assembly of power equipment. Operating equipment and devices in emergency situations.

Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess the needs of the surgical team. React/respond to signals, alarms and other displays indicating immediate needs, Hear team member communication through the surgical mask.

Sufficient ability for observation and assessment of the needs of the surgical team. Observe pertinent data in the surgical environment that indicate activity for patient safety. Distinguish signs and indicators determining sterility and expiration dates.

Sufficient abilities for in fine skills required on the surgical field. Perform required skills for participation the surgical field including manipulation of surgical needles, assembling complicated equipment.

Students who complete this program will be able to:

• Manipulate surgical instruments, equipment and supplies safely according to the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
• Perform at an entry level in the first and second scrub role as defined by the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
• Apply the ethics of surgical conscience which includes honesty, integrity and respect while abiding by the Association of Surgical Technologist Code of Ethics.
• Demonstrate principles of aseptic and sterile technique.
• Recognize the different types and methods of sterilization.
• Apply fundamental theoretical knowledge by scoring at least 70% on the NBSTSA Certification Exam.
• Advocate for the patient by following HIPAA guidelines on confidentiality and promoting patient safety before, during and immediately after the surgical procedure.
• Demonstrate skills acquired by participating in 120 surgical cases according to the AST standards.

To prepare entry-level Surgical Technologists who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.

To prepare competent entry-level surgical technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.

Upon completion the graduate will be able to:

Cognitive Learning Goals

• Successfully complete the National Certificate Exam offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
• Apply fundamental theoretical knowledge in the practice of surgical technology.
• Meeting or exceeding criteria set forth in the current CAAHEP Standards and Guideline for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Surgical Technology.

Psychomotor Learning Goals

• Demonstrate safe manipulation of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies.
• Perform entry level in the first and second scrub role as defined by the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
• Learn and demonstrate principles of aseptic and sterile technique and understand the types and methods of sterilization.

Affective Learning Goals

• Advocate for the patient by following HIPAA guidelines on confidentiality and promoting patient safety before, during, and immediately after the surgical procedure.
• Display critical thinking and problem solving skills in patient care situations.
• Develop practitioners with high ethical conduct and high professional standards, upholding and abiding by the Association of Surgical Technologist Code of Ethics.

Exposure to Infectious Disease-Surgical Technologists may be exposed to infectious diseases including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, influenza, Covid-19, tuberculosis, MRSA, measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis and varicella. 

Exposure to bloodborne pathogens

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and biological hazards. 

Ergonomic hazards

Surgical Technologists may experience ergonomic hazards related to standing, lifting and repetitive tasks. 

Exposure to sharps

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to sharps and experience injuries. 

Injuries

Surgical Technologist may experience injuries from slips, falls and overexertion. 

Exposure to radiation

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to radiation in different formats. 

Exposure to chemicals and drugs

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to chemicals and drugs. 

Exposure to unpleasant sights and odors

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to unpleasant sights and odors. 

Loud noise

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to loud noise from various equipment in the OR. 

Burns

Surgical Technologists my experience burns from equipment, lasers or electrical surgical equipment. 

2023 (5 out of 6) = 83%