Surgical technologists are members of the surgical team working under the supervision and authority of the surgeon within the scope of practice of state law and hospital policy. These surgical team members help prepare the operating room by setting up sterile surgical instruments, equipment, supplies, and medications. They check to ensure that all equipment is in the proper place and working properly. They also assist the surgeon in donning PPE as well as transport the patient to the OR, position and drape the patient for the specific procedure, prepare the skin for the procedure, and assist the surgeon as needed during the procedure. They must know medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology as well as the many different types of surgical instruments and equipment, proper infection control procedure, and effective communication strategies used with team members and the patient prior to and after the surgical procedure. This course provides an introduction to the surgical technologist career, role in the operating room, and foundational concepts.
After completing this program, learners will be able to:
Students who successfully complete the Surgical Tech Certificate Program may be eligible to sit for the American Allied Health (AAH), National Healthcare Workers Association (NHCWA) and the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) national certification exams – provided that they meet certain requirements which may include hands on scrubs and or practical experience through either a Clinical Externship and or Employment Experience. In addition to successfully completing the certification exam, candidates may be required to submit additional documentation to maintain certification.
 | American Allied Health (AAH) Surgical Technologist Certification |
Disclaimer: This Surgical Technologist program is not an associate degree and/or Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) – approved program, which requires a 1 to 2-year associate degree credit program. However, there are multiple employment opportunities for students in the following job titles including but not limited to:
Prospective students are advised that the University cannot guarantee that any particular employer will require or accept any certification for employment purposes. Prior to enrolling, students should determine whether certification is needed or sufficient for the type of employment they are seeking.
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