Surgical Technology

Occupational Description
Surgical technologists (ST's) 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.

Job Description
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.

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

Course Description
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.

Accreditation Status

https://www.caahep.org/Students/Find-a-Program.aspx
(CAAHEP)
The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Outcomes Assessment Exam Results

The Surgical Technology program graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) exam. 

Class of 2017 (as of June 27, 2018)

Retention rate: 26 enrolled, 2 dropped= 92 %
CST Participation in Certification Exam: 24/24= 100%
CST Pass Rate in Certification Exam (first time): 21/24= 87%
Graduate Placement (in field, continuing education)= 19/24=79%
Employer and Graduate surveys: pending results; will update results in the next PAC meeting in October 2018.

Class of 2016

Retention rate: 30 enrolled, 4 dropped = 86%
CST Participation in Certification Exam: 26/26=100%
CST Pass Rate in Certification Exam (first time): 25/26=96%
Graduate Placement (in field, continuing education) = 24/26=92%
Employer Survey Return rate=12/23=52%
Employer Survey Satisfaction rate=12/12=100%
Graduate Survey Return rate=14/26=53%
Graduate Survey Satisfaction rate= 14/14=100%

Class of 2015

Retention rate: 25 enrolled, 5 dropped; 20/25= 80%
CST Participation in Certification Exam: 20/20=100%
CST Pass Rate in Certification Exam (first time): 19/20=95%
Graduate Placement (in field, continuing education) = 15/20=75%
Employer Survey Return rate=10/14=71%
Employer Survey Satisfaction rate=10/10=100%
Graduate Survey Return rate=20/20=100%
Graduate Survey Satisfaction rate= 20/20=100%

 

Gainful Employment Information

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

• Surgical Assistant
• Surgical Technology

---

If you are interested in learning more about this program, please

1. 1. Attend an advising session
                   and/or
   2. Visit a Health Career Program Advisor by calling (630) 942-2259 to make an appointment.
   3. For information or general inquiries, please send an email to healthcareadvising@cod.edu. (Please use above phone number only to schedule an appointment. Do not send an appointment request to this email).

Feedback/compliments/concerns regarding this Health Science Program. For general inquiries, please use contact information listed above.