Surgical Technology, A.A.S.

The Surgical Technology curriculum prepares individuals to assist in the care of the surgical patient in the operating room and to function as a member of the surgical team.

Students will apply theoretical knowledge to the care of patients undergoing surgery and develop skills necessary to prepare supplies, equipment, and instruments; maintain aseptic conditions; prepare patients for surgery; and assist surgeons during operations.

Employment opportunities include labor/delivery/emergency departments, inpatient/outpatient surgery centers, dialysis units/facilities, physicians’ offices, and central supply processing units.

Competencies:

Upon successful completion of this program, the student should be able to:

1. Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills with consumers and coworkers in the role of surgical technologist.
2. Use critical thinking to recognize, analyze, and solve problems related to surgical procedures.
3. Understand and use policies and manuals related to surgical procedures.
4. Use current technologies in the implementation of administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures.
5. Demonstrate competency in the knowledge and skills required for entry-level surgical technologist.
6. Display professionalism by projecting a positive attitude, working as a team member, showing initiative and responsibility, and displaying sensitivity to cultural diversity.
7. Practice in a legal and ethical manner.

Technical Standards

In addition to DCCC requirements and course objectives, there are professional standards that encompass communication, motor skills, sensory and cognitive ability and professional conduct that are essential for the competent study and practice of a surgical technology. These technical standards are published in the application for admission to health programs and the Student Handbook.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants for admission to the Surgical Technology program must:

1. Complete a DCCC Application for Admission for those not currently enrolled at DCCC.
2. Complete and submit a Surgical Technology Enrollment Packet.
3. Submit a High school transcript OR GED score report (High school seniors should submit a current transcript by the deadline).
4. Submit an OFFICIAL college transcripts from colleges attended. All transcripts are not required, only those in which you plan to transfer credit must be submitted. College transcripts must arrive in original sealed envelopes. Faxed, copied, and on -line transcripts are not acceptable
5. Placement scores meeting Allied Health placement requirements (or approved equivalent) in the areas of computer skills, sentence skills, reading comprehension, arithmetic and algebra
6. Allied Health Intent Form submitted to admissions.
7. Eligibility Review - After completing the requirements above, you are responsible for scheduling an Eligibility Review appointment with your Enrollment Advisor.

NOTE: Meeting all admission requirements does not guarantee placement into the Surgical Technology program.

Transfer Credit for Surgical Technology Courses

The decision regarding transfer credit for Surgical Technology courses is made by the Director of the program in consultation with members of the faculty and the Associate Dean. Syllabi for courses for which credit is requested will be required.

Progression Requirements

A student must meet all prerequisite and corequisite SUR course requirements with a grade of “C” or better in order to progress in the program.

Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check and drug screen testing are required by the clinical site prior to participation in the clinical component.

If any clinical facility refuses to allow the student to participate in clinical experiences in the clinical agency, the student will not be able to progress in the program.