WHAT IS A SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST?
Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part if the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. The surgical technologist works under medical supervision to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of invasive surgical procedures. This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room or environment is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety. The surgical technologist is a well-educated, highly skilled, and versatile member of the health care team who work with the surgeon and other skilled professionals to deliver the highest possible level of patient care.
SALARY
Salaries vary in areas of the United States and are based on shift work, job responsibilities, and job experience. The average starting salary nationally is $26,000 to $35,000. The average starting salary locally (East Texas area) is $21,000 to $28,000.
HISTORY OF SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY
Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings.
This allied health profession was developed during World War II when there was a critical need for assistance in performing surgical procedures and a shortage of qualified personnel to meet that need. Individuals were educated specifically to assist in surgical procedures. From that need, the profession of surgical technology has grown to meet the continuing demand for well-educated, highly skilled, and versatile men and women who work with the surgeon and other skilled professionals to deliver the highest possible level of patient care.
PROGRAM GOALS & OBJECTIVES
- Use objective and fair admission policies
- Provide appropriate classroom instruction
- Furnishing the tools and direction for self-directed learning
- Maintaining learning environments and appropriate instruction at clinical education sites
- Applying policies, which promote responsible work ethics and study habits
- Supplying faculty, who are knowledgeable, clinically competent, approachable and fair
- Providing faculty who treat students with respect and who are respected by the students
The program will strive to maintain the following outcome rates, which reflect program effectiveness and viability.
- The average course completion rate will be 95% or higher
- The average course grade will be 75% or higher
- The average pass rate of the CST exam will be 90% or higher
- The average CST exam score will be 85% or higher
- Attrition rates will be 25% or less
- Retention rates will be 95% or higher
- Within six months of graduation, the employment rate of the program graduates will be 90% or higher
