Surgical Services

Major: Surgical Services

Overview: The Surgical Services major prepares students to become integral members of surgical teams, focusing on patient care before, during, and after surgery. This program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical training, covering sterile techniques, surgical instrumentation, and operating room procedures. Graduates are prepared for careers as surgical technologists, operating room assistants, or related roles in healthcare settings.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand the fundamentals of surgical procedures and operating room protocols.
• Develop skills in sterile techniques, surgical instrumentation, and patient preparation.
• Learn techniques for assisting in surgeries, managing surgical equipment, and ensuring patient safety.
• Explore principles of anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology relevant to surgical services.
• Analyze and apply best practices in infection control, surgical technology, and patient care.
• Develop critical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills for effective surgical team collaboration.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Surgical Services

   • Overview of surgical team roles, operating room environment, and ethical considerations.

2. Anatomy and Physiology for Surgical Services

   • Study of human anatomy and physiological processes relevant to surgical procedures.

3. Surgical Instrumentation and Equipment

   • Identification, handling, and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment.

4. Sterile Techniques and Infection Control

   • Principles of aseptic techniques, sterilization methods, and infection prevention.

5. Surgical Procedures and Techniques

   • Overview of common surgical procedures, patient positioning, and intraoperative assistance.

6. Pharmacology for Surgical Services

   • Basics of surgical medications, anesthesia, and patient monitoring.

7. Operating Room Management

   • Techniques for managing surgical supplies, equipment, and operating room workflow.

8. Patient Care and Safety

   • Principles of preoperative and postoperative patient care, including emotional support and safety protocols.

9. Clinical Practicum/Internship

   • Hands-on experience in hospitals, surgical centers, or clinics under supervision.

10. Capstone Project in Surgical Services

    • Comprehensive project applying skills in surgical assistance, infection control, or operating room management.

Assessment Methods:

• Practical exams on sterile techniques and surgical instrumentation.
• Case studies on surgical procedures and patient care.
• Clinical practicum evaluations and reports.
• Capstone projects on surgical technology or operating room management.
• Group projects and presentations on surgical best practices.

Recommended Resources:

• "Surgical Technology: Principles and Practice" by Joanna Kotcher Fuller.
• "Alexander’s Care of the Patient in Surgery" by Jane C. Rothrock.
• "Berry & Kohn’s Operating Room Technique" by Nancy Marie Phillips.
• Guidelines from the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST).

Prerequisites:

• Basic knowledge of biology, anatomy, and medical terminology.
• Interest in healthcare, patient care, and surgical procedures.
• Ability to work in high-pressure environments and as part of a team.

Duration:

• Typically 2 years for an associate degree or 4 years for a bachelor’s degree.
• Certification programs may take 12-24 months.

Certifications:

Graduates can pursue certifications such as:

• Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
• Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).

Career Paths:

1. Surgical Technologist:

   • Assisting surgeons during operations, preparing operating rooms, and managing surgical instruments.

2. Operating Room Assistant:

   • Supporting surgical teams with equipment, patient preparation, and intraoperative tasks.

3. Sterile Processing Technician:

   • Managing the sterilization and maintenance of surgical instruments and equipment.

4. Surgical Services Coordinator:

   • Overseeing operating room schedules, supplies, and team coordination.

5. Labor and Delivery Surgical Technologist:

   • Specializing in obstetric and gynecological surgeries.

6. Traveling Surgical Technologist:

   • Working on short-term assignments in various healthcare facilities.

Why This Major?

• High Demand: Growing need for surgical technologists due to an aging population and advances in medical technology.
• Impactful Work: Directly contribute to patient care and surgical success.
• Diverse Opportunities: Careers in hospitals, outpatient surgical centers, and specialized clinics.