Surgical Technology A.A.S. (Plan 21SA)

Program Overview

The Surgical Technology program offers a comprehensive curriculum comprising classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and clinical training. Throughout the year, lectures are conducted in person on Grayslake campus. The laboratory component spans the initial eight weeks of the first semester, covering all essential skills necessary for operating room proficiency. Clinical experience commences in the latter half of the first semester and extends across three consecutive semesters. Placement at clinical sites is assigned to students.  Students are responsible for arranging their transportation to and from these sites. It's important to note that clinical rotations may require travel of up to an hour. Additionally, students should anticipate potential supplementary expenses during clinical rotations, including but not limited to parking fees and transportation costs.

Surgical Technology Program Goals

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to gain employment as entry-level surgical technologists. This goal is achieved by preparing graduates to be competent in the cognitive (thinking), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains. The curriculum is aligned with the standards and guidelines set by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Minimum Expectations Statement

“To prepare entry-level Surgical Technologists who demonstrate competence in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains as they enter the profession.”

Role of a Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who play a crucial role in the surgical team. Their responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the decontamination and setup of operating rooms for each procedure

• Organizing necessary surgical and sterile supplies and equipment

• Maintaining the quality, safety, and efficiency of the sterile field throughout the surgery

They may also be responsible for transporting patients to and from the operating room, positioning patients on the operating table, observing vital signs, and checking charts.

Intraoperative Responsibilities

During surgery, surgical technologists:

• Assist the surgical team with sterile gowns and gloves

• Anticipate the surgeon’s needs by understanding the steps and progression of the procedure

• Ensure proper care and management of surgical instrumentation and equipment before, during, and after surgery

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