Surgical Technology

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Surgical technologists (STs) are integral members of the surgical team who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel. Before, during and after surgery, they deliver patient care and perform tasks that help ensure a safe surgical environment, contributing to and supporting the operating team's efficiency.

The role of a surgical technologist includes setting up the operating room, preparing surgical instruments and assisting in their use, and preparing patients for surgery. The technologist has primary responsibility for maintaining the sterile field, ensuring that all members of the operating team adhere to aseptic technique, and preparing and applying sterile dressings following procedures.

STs are employed in hospital operating rooms, delivery rooms, cast rooms, emergency departments and clinics. The employment outlook for this occupational area is very good.

Coursework includes both classroom and clinical instruction. Multiple clinical sites are used to expose students to a variety of surgical settings. Successful completion of the program results in the award of a certificate and, with additional general education coursework, an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree. Successful completion of the program also permits the graduate to sit for the national certifying examination.

The Surgical Technology certificate program is an intensive one-year, three semester curriculum with classroom and clinical experiences. Students are required to have their own transportation to clinical sites. Clinical sites are assigned to meet the needs of both the students and the program. The assignments are the decision of the program coordinator. The number of applicants admitted to the CST program is limited by the availability of clinical sites. To be considered for admission, applicants must complete the minimum prerequisites listed in the packet. Selection for admission is competitive and is determined by a point system based on categories such as GPS on prerequisites, reading and writing placement scores, quality of written goal letters, previous college degree, date $50.00 non-refundable application fee is received (the earlier the application, the more points that will be awarded), and successful completion of the Sugtech 111 class with a B or higher.

Accreditation Status

The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Gainful Employment Information

View information about this program, including estimated cost and employment opportunities.

Surgical Technology

Kathy Cabai, RN, CNOR, M.S.Ed., Ed.D., Program Director
Health and Science Center (HSC), Room 2202A, (630) 942-8328

Health and Sciences Division
Health and Science Center (HSC), Room 1220, (630) 942-8331

Resources:

Advising Sessions

Please note: A picture ID is required for all attendees of the Advising Sessions.

Spotlight

Keri Dorushka Surgical Technology
""Surgical tech is not a well-known profession and not many people even know we exist. But we play an important role, especially in being the surgeon's extra eyes, ears and hands," Keri Dorushka said. "My main role as a health care professional is to remember that I am part of a team that must work together to achieve one goal: to give the patient the highest level of care."
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Kathy Cabai Surgical Technology
"If your career leads you down a path you do not like, you will not be happy nor good at what you do. Life is too short and it is important to enjoy and love it. If you want it, you are capable of achieving it."
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Danielle Odstrcilek Surgical Technology
"Surgical techs are the surgeon's right hand. We prep the operating room, check the supplies, pass the instruments and make sure the environment is sterile," she explained. "We have to be conscious of what we're doing all the time."
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