Surgical Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree

Program Overview

Major ID: 370A

Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring
Courses are offered as face to face day classes in a cohort model. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Accrediting Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (www.arcstsa.org).

The Surgical Technologist is a critical member of the patient care team during surgery. They are responsible for a wide variety of duties, including preparing and maintaining the sterile field and all instruments and supplies used during surgery. Surgical Technologists responsibilities include anticipating the next steps during the surgical procedure and assisting if needed. The Surgical Technology AAS degree is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professionalism in order to participate safely, and effectively in the perioperative environment.

Career Opportunities

Most Surgical Technologists work in a wide variety of hospital settings; from community hospitals to trauma centers, as well as standalone day surgery outpatient facilities. Employment of Surgical Technologists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. The immediate need for Surgical technologists is vast, with a multitude of opportunities for properly trained Surgical Technologists.

Program Outcomes

1. To prepare competent entry level Surgical Technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psycho-motor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.
2. Communicate effectively and professionally with all members of a diverse sterile processing and surgical team.
3. Apply logical and critical thinking skills as it relates to Surgical Technology job duties.
4. Demonstrate safe handling of surgical instrumentation, equipment and supplies used in surgical patient care.
5. Identify surgical instrumentation, supplies, and equipment used in surgical patient care.
6. Use appropriate medical terminology related to the role of Surgical Technology.
7. Apply computer skills required in Surgical Technology.
8. Describe the cycle of sterilization as it relates to the Surgical Technologists role.
9. Demonstrate proficiency in establishing and maintaining the sterile field using aseptic technique.
10. Identify appropriate contraindications and usage of drugs as it relates to the role of the Surgical Technologist.

Program Faculty

Program Director - Viki Viertel CST, MS
viki.viertel@saintpaul.edu

Clinical Director - Karen Hecimovich CST, BS
karen.hecimovich@saintpaul.edu

Full Time Faculty - Jan Brownlee CST, CFA, AA
janice.brownlee@saintpaul.edu

Prerequisites/Admission Guidelines:

1. Successful completion of the Sterile Processing Certificate with a minimum cumulative 2.85 GPA and a grade of C or better in all Sterile Processing courses. See Sterile Processing Program Requirement Guide for admissions requirements.
2. Must complete vaccination requirements directed by faculty at required program orientation session.
3. Mandatory attendance for all first classes in each course of the program. Non compliance will result in being dropped from class.
4. Complete Basic Life Support for Healthcare provider (BLS) CPR prior to starting SURG 24XX courses.
5. Must pass MN Department of Health and Human Services Background study.

Transfer Opportunities

Saint Paul College has transfer agreements & partnerships between many post-secondary institutions. For more information please go to saintpaul.edu/Transfer.

Additional Program Materials

Students should expect to spend approximately $135 for supplies. Be aware the student will be responsible for supplying own scrubs. This cost is beyond the cost of tuition and fees and subject to change.

Potential Hazards and Exposures

This career path has a risk of exposure to blood borne pathogens; blood, body fluids and other biohazards to include drugs, diseases, and respiratory hazards. There is also a physical requirement associated with this career, to include but not limited to; lifting heavy equipment and pans up to 50 pounds, standing for very long periods of time, transferring patients. Must be able to hear, understand, and communicate clearly in a potentially loud environment.