What is a surgical technologist? What goes on behind the scenes in the operating room?
Surgical technology is an exciting, growing, in-demand profession in the healthcare field. Surgical technologists work as members of a healthcare team alongside physicians, surgeons, registered nurses, and other healthcare workers to provide emergent as well as scheduled surgery care to patients.
Before an operation, surgical technologists prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment. During an operation, surgical technologists pass instruments and supplies to surgeons and first assistants. They also hold retractors, keep internal organs in place during the procedure, or set up robotic surgical equipment.
Once the operation is complete, surgical technologists may apply bandages and other dressings to the incision site. They may also help transfer patients to recovery rooms and restock operating rooms after a procedure. Over 70% of surgical technologists are employed in hospitals and may work or be on call during nights, weekends, and holidays.
The nationally accredited Surgical Technology professional program at Dixie State University is an admission-limited, one-year course of study leading to an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology. Upon completion of the program, the graduate will sit for the National Board Certifying Examination, the passing of which will certify the graduate in all fifty states. The program is open to all academically qualified applicants.
Through a competitive application process, one cohort of no more than 12 students is admitted to the professional program per year. The application will be open February 1 and will close June 15. The start date for the program is the same as the first day of classes of the DSU fall semester.
To learn more about the program, see the lab, and meet the instructors come to our open house Monday, March 9 from 2-4 p.m. in the Taylor Health Science Center, room #339. You can also learn more and apply on our website here.
