Surgical Technologists are integral members of the surgical team who work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses and other surgical personnel in delivering patient care and assuming appropriate responsibilities before, during and after surgery. Scrub, circulating, first assisting and second assisting surgical technologists have primary responsibilities for maintaining a sterile field and being constantly vigilant to ensure all members of the team adhere to aseptic techniques.
Upon completion of the program requirements, the student may be qualified to take the national certification examination administered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
CAREER OPTIONS
Surgical Technologists are in constant demand, both immediately and through attrition/turnover and new positions. The rapid growth of the population in the service area has increased the demand for services with the development of new settings and the expansion of existing ones.
The average annual income in South Carolina for a Surgical Technologist in 2009 was $35,080*. Earnings can increase substantially with time and experience.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
The Surgical Technology diploma program prepares graduates to practice as a Surgical Technologist. The program consists of courses in general education, science and surgical technology courses taught in the college classroom, in campus laboratories and multiple clinical education sites throughout the four county area served by the college. The Surgical Technology program takes three semesters to complete.
For list of required courses, please see course catalog.
SPECIALIZED PROGRAM ACCREDITATION
Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology (ARC-ST)
6 West Dry Creek Circle; Suite 210 / Littleton, Colorado 80120-8031 / 303-694-9262 / website
ADMISSIONS
Applicants interested in the Surgical Technology program must first complete the college admission application process. The student will then make an appointment to meet with a Health Sciences Advisor. Acceptance into the college does not guarantee admission into a health sciences program. Applications for admission to the Surgical Technology program may only be obtained from Health Sciences Advisors. Call 843.525.8267 for additional information and to schedule an appointment with an advisor.
HANDBOOKS
Division of Health Sciences Student Handbook
HEALTH SCIENCES ADVISOR
Maggie O’Sullivan
Phone: 843-525-8326 / Fax: 843-525-8268 /mosullivan@tcl.edu
FACULTY
JoLane Buss, Program Director
Phone: 843-470-8415 / Fax: 843-525-8268 / jbuss@tcl.edu
Marge Sapp, Health Sciences Division Dean
Phone: 843.525.8276 / msapp@tcl.edu
*Source: US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.