Surgical technologists play a crucial role in the medical field, assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. If you're interested in pursuing a career in this field, the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program is an excellent option to consider. In this article, we'll provide an overview of the program and its requirements.
What is Surgical Technology?
Surgical technology is a healthcare profession that involves preparing operating rooms, maintaining a sterile environment, and assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is prepared with the necessary equipment and supplies, and that the patient is properly positioned and prepared for surgery.
San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program Overview
The San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a competent surgical technologist. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and is offered at the San Jacinto College Central Campus.
The program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. Students learn about surgical procedures, patient care, and operating room protocols, as well as how to maintain a sterile environment and handle surgical equipment.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program, students must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Students must be at least 18 years old to apply for the program.
- Education: Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent to apply for the program.
- Prerequisite Courses: Students must complete the following prerequisite courses with a grade of C or higher:
- Anatomy and Physiology I and II
- Microbiology
- English Composition I and II
- Math (college algebra or higher)
- Background Check: Students must undergo a background check and provide proof of immunization against certain diseases.
- Health Insurance: Students must have health insurance to participate in clinical rotations.
Program Curriculum
The San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program curriculum includes the following courses:
- Surgical Technology Fundamentals
- Surgical Procedures
- Patient Care
- Operating Room Protocols
- Surgical Equipment and Instrumentation
- Sterilization and Disinfection
- Clinical Rotations
Clinical Rotations
Clinical rotations are an essential part of the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program. Students participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers, where they gain hands-on experience in the operating room.
Certification
Graduates of the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, which is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing the CST exam is required to become a certified surgical technologist.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including:
- Surgical Technologist: Assist surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures.
- Operating Room Technician: Maintain a sterile environment and handle surgical equipment.
- Surgical Assistant: Assist surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures.
- Health Educator: Educate patients and families about surgical procedures and post-operative care.
![Surgical Tech Program](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-program.png)
Salary Range
The salary range for surgical technologists varies depending on location, experience, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists is around $48,000.
Conclusion
The San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program is an excellent option for individuals interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a competent surgical technologist, and graduates are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. With a strong demand for surgical technologists, graduates of the program can pursue a variety of career opportunities and enjoy a rewarding and challenging career.
![Surgical Tech Career](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-career.png)
![Surgical Tech Program Requires](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-program-requires.png)
![Surgical Tech Salary Range](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-salary-range.png)
![Surgical Tech Certification](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-certification.png)
![Surgical Tech Program Overview](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-program-overview.png)
![Surgical Tech Career Opportunities](https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/surgical-tech-career-opportunities.png)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist is around $48,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What are the requirements for the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program?
+The requirements for the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program include a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of prerequisite courses, and a background check.
Is certification required to become a surgical technologist?
+Yes, certification is required to become a surgical technologist. Graduates of the San Jacinto College Surgical Technology Program are eligible to take the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.