Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an important part of the operating room team. Before, during and after surgery, they deliver patient care and perform tasks that help ensure a safe surgical environment, contributing to and supporting the operating team's efficiency. This individual works under the supervision of a surgeon to ensure that the operating room is safe, that equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.
Technologists prepare and sterilize instruments and surgical supplies, assist physicians during surgical procedures, ensure necessary equipment is properly maintained and available when needed, handle surgical specimens, maintain a sterile atmosphere in the operating room environment and complete necessary paperwork related to surgical procedures.
The comprehensive program at Blackhawk will prepare students for entry-level positions as Surgical Technologists. The Associate Degree program gives students a balanced set of experiences in the classroom, laboratory and clinical setting. Students are trained in procedures, aseptic (sterile) techniques, medical equipment nomenclature, human anatomy and physiology, physics, robotics, and pharmacology for the operating room. Graduates of the program may be employed in a variety of areas such as the operating room, labor and delivery, physicians’ offices, cath labs, and outpatient surgery centers.