Skip to content

Why Major in Surgical Technology

New students applying to Black Hawk College should select the AAS/General Occupational and Technical Studies (GOTS) until such time as they have been officially accepted by the department into this program.

The Surgical Technology Program is a career-oriented program designed to prepare students to function as part of a team in the operating room setting. This will include preparation of instruments, set up of the operating room and assisting with the care of patients undergoing surgery.

The curriculum includes both theory and practical application within the operating room setting. Students must achieve at least a “C” in all course work both general education and program specific.

 

Discover careers and salaries for this program

Locations
Quad-Cities Campus
Formats
On-campus
Number of Credits
61
Next Start Date
Fall

Careers In Surgical Technology

Surgical Technologists (ST) are employed in hospital operating rooms, delivery rooms and ambulatory care surgical centers.

Student Testimonials

Surgical Technology Admission Requirements

  1. High school graduation or equivalent.
  2. Complete Surgical Technology application process. Students are required to fill out a program application.
  3. A physical examination and current immunizations.
  4. Background check.
  5. Minimum of “C” average in courses previously completed at Black Hawk College and any courses transferred from other colleges is required.

Students must successfully document and meet all health care and background checks required by the Black Hawk College health career programs and/or the clinical sites prior to entry into the Surgical Technology Program. A physical examination and immunizations are required prior to beginning of clinical rotations.

Students with chronic health problems or physical disabilities will be accepted unless the health problem or disability is such that the student would be unable to complete the objectives of the program. (See Technical Abilities required by Health Care Programs for more information.)

Essential Performance Standards for Admission and Progression

Surgical Technology is a practice discipline with cognitive, sensory, affective and psychomotor performance requirements. Patient safety is dependent on the student’s ability to meet the following essential performance standards. These standards are a part of each course. It is important that every applicant meet these standards to be able to engage in learning activities that will not endanger students, faculty or patients.

Critical Thinking

Sufficient for clinical judgment. Identify cause-effect relationships in clinical situations (recognize, report, and correct unsafe practice by self or other team members), analyze and develop a plan of activity within an allotted time frame.

Communication

Sufficient for accurate and efficient interpretation and communication in English, both verbal and written for interaction with others. Explain procedures, responding to health care provider orders, write legibly and correctly. Computerization access skills.

Interpersonal Abilities

Sufficient to interact with individuals, families and groups from a variety of social, emotional, cultural, religious and intellectual backgrounds. Establish rapport with patients, families, peers and health team members. Perform effectively under stress, remain calm and alert. Advocate for the patient’s safety, legal and moral rights. Follow orders and directions as instructed, regardless of the manner in which it was delivered. Handle constructive criticism with a positive and professional attitude. Be honest and ethical. 

Mobility

Physical abilities sufficient to move from room to room, maneuver in small spaces, navigate stairwells and bending to retrieve items. Lifting (at least 30 lbs.), positioning and transporting patients. Moving efficiently to meet the needs of the patient and surgical team. Participate in care in emergency and nonemergency situations. Have full manual dexterity of the upper extremities, including the neck and shoulders, unrestricted movement of both lower extremities, back and hips and have the ability to touch the floor and to be able to sit, bend, reach, walk and stand for most of the workday. Hold uncomfortable positions for extended periods of time. Effective strategies for controlling bodily functions such as sweat and urination.

Motor Skills

Gross and fine motor abilities sufficient to provide safe, effective, and skilled care. Calibrate and use equipment, manipulating surgical instruments, sutures, and needles, assembly of power equipment. Operating equipment and devices in emergency situations.

Hearing Abilities

Auditory ability sufficient to monitor and assess the needs of the surgical team. React/respond to signals, alarms and other displays indicating immediate needs, Hear team member communication through the surgical mask.

Visual Abilities

Sufficient ability for observation and assessment of the needs of the surgical team. Observe pertinent data in the surgical environment that indicate activity for patient safety. Distinguish signs and indicators determining sterility and expiration dates.

Tactile Abilities

Sufficient abilities for participating in fine skills required on the surgical field. Perform required skills for participation on the surgical field including manipulation of surgical needles, assembling complicated equipment.

Application

Applications will be available in mid-January 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Technology

What are the learning objectives?

Students who complete this program will be able to:

  • Manipulate surgical instruments, equipment and supplies safely according to the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
  • Perform at an entry level in the first and second scrub role as defined by the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
  • Apply the ethics of surgical conscience which includes honesty, integrity and respect while abiding by the Association of Surgical Technologist Code of Ethics.
  • Demonstrate principles of aseptic and sterile technique.
  • Recognize the different types and methods of sterilization.
  • Apply fundamental theoretical knowledge by scoring at least 70% on the NBSTSA Certification Exam.
  • Advocate for the patient by following HIPAA guidelines on confidentiality and promoting patient safety before, during and immediately after the surgical procedure.
  • Demonstrate skills acquired by participating in 120 surgical cases according to the AST standards.

What are the minimum expectations?

To prepare entry-level Surgical Technologists who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills) and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.

What are the program goals?

To prepare competent entry-level surgical technologists in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains.

Upon completion the graduate will be able to:

Cognitive Learning Goals

  • Successfully complete the National Certificate Exam offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
  • Apply fundamental theoretical knowledge in the practice of surgical technology.
  • Meeting or exceeding criteria set forth in the current CAAHEP Standards and Guideline for the Accreditation of Educational Programs in Surgical Technology.

Psychomotor Learning Goals

  • Demonstrate safe manipulation of surgical instruments, equipment and supplies.
  • Perform entry level in the first and second scrub role as defined by the AST 7e Core Curriculum.
  • Learn and demonstrate principles of aseptic and sterile technique and understand the types and methods of sterilization.

Affective Learning Goals

  • Advocate for the patient by following HIPAA guidelines on confidentiality and promoting patient safety before, during, and immediately after the surgical procedure.
  • Display critical thinking and problem solving skills in patient care situations.
  • Develop practitioners with high ethical conduct and high professional standards, upholding and abiding by the Association of Surgical Technologist Code of Ethics.

What are the occupational risks of Surgical Technology?

Exposure to Infectious Disease-Surgical Technologists may be exposed to infectious diseases including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, influenza, Covid-19, tuberculosis, MRSA, measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis and varicella. 

Exposure to bloodborne pathogens

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to bloodborne pathogens and biological hazards.  

Ergonomic hazards

Surgical Technologists may experience ergonomic hazards related to standing, lifting and repetitive tasks. 

Exposure to sharps

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to sharps and experience injuries. 

Injuries

Surgical Technologist may experience injuries from slips, falls and overexertion. 

Exposure to radiation

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to radiation in different formats.  

Exposure to chemicals and drugs

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to chemicals and drugs. 

Exposure to unpleasant sights and odors

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to unpleasant sights and odors. 

Loud noise

Surgical Technologists may be exposed to loud noise from various equipment in the OR. 

Burns

Surgical Technologists my experience burns from equipment, lasers or electrical surgical equipment. 

Is the Surgical Technology program accredited?

Yes, the Surgical Technology program is accredited by:

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)

25400 US Hwy 19 N., Suite 158
Clearwater, FL 33763
Phone: 727-210-2350
Website: www.caahep.org

Contact

Quad-Cities Campus

309-796-5341 or
309-796-5000

East Campus

309-854-1724