Surgical technologists specialize in the operating room
procedures, preparing operating rooms, assisting surgeons with
surgical operations, and managing medical instrumentation,
equipment and supplies.
surgical technology
Surgical technologists, commonly referred to as scrub techs, are operating room specialists
who are tasked with the responsibility of performing and mastering a specific skill
set in pre-, intra-, and postoperative surgical case management. They must be knowledgeable
and vigilant in asepsis and sterile technique, with self-accountability to properly
and diligently care for instrumentation, equipment, supplies, wound care and closure,
and most importantly, the safety of the patient. Surgical technologists are experts
in their knowledge and theory of anatomy and physiology, microbiology, sterile technique,
and surgical procedures which makes them a crucial part of the surgical team. They
must be able to multi-task and anticipate multiple steps ahead of the surgeon all
while making split-second decisions in the event of an emergency.
The profession of surgical technology comes with great responsibility and accountability
but also endless amounts of gratification, fulfillment, and the willingness to selflessly
give back every day of your life and make a difference.
As a student in the surgical technology program, you will grow and develop skills
in comprehensive case management, sterilization techniques, surgical procedures, wound
care and closure, and patient care and safety. Students will get hands-on experience
using the latest surgical equipment in the state-of-the-art lab all while getting
real-world experience and training through practicum placements in local hospitals
and surgery centers. The Associates of Applied Science in Surgical Technology prepares
you to sit for the certified surgical technologist examination.
Surgical technologists are always in high demand and work in a variety of settings,
including:
Hospitals
Outpatient surgical centers
Central sterile processing departments
Private physicians’ practices
Medical supply companies
DEGREES OFFERED
WHY CHOOSE surgical technology AT UAA?
Percentage of UAA surgical technology students who successfully find jobs as surgical
technologists upon completion of the program.
Practice using the latest surgical equipment and sterile fields in a new lab facility
with a certified surgical technologist.
Learn from expert faculty and complete clinicals alongside working professionals in
local hospitals and surgery centers, including ҹɫÊÓÆµapp's largest trauma II center.
The UAA College of Health proudly celebrated the recent renovation of Sally Monserud Hall with a ribbon-cutting ceremony showcasing the new high-tech labs and simulation center, expanded allied health programs, growth of the WWAMI program and critical partnerships addressing ҹɫÊÓÆµapp’s growing health care needs.
The School of Allied Health celebrates its summer graduates with a memorable pinning ceremony on July 27, 2023, at the Edward & Cathryn Rasmuson Hall of the ҹɫÊÓÆµapp.
How integral is Providence to ҹɫÊÓÆµapp? Not only does the hospital make up the second half of the namesake UMED District, but the organization is the largest non-government employer in the state, naturally resulting in the employment of a large number of UAA nursing and surgical technology alumni.
A new degree in surgical technology, launched this year, helps meet an industry need in ҹɫÊÓÆµapp while offering further academic options for College of Health students.
Message from the Director
Thank you so much for your interest in the UAA Surgical Technology program. As a nationally
accredited program, my commitment to you as program director is to provide a specialized skill set and knowledge base built on a foundation that will afford you, the student,
a successful and rewarding career in various healthcare settings which include hospitals, surgery centers,
and private practice. Our Surgical Technology Program is built for student success in a way that
will provide extensive hands-on skills training in our state-of-the-art surgical lab setting equipped
with real-world surgical instrumentation, operating room surgical beds, scrub sinks, and more. As
a surgical technologist, you will be a vital member of the surgical team that works hand in hand with surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, and registered nurses delivering direct patient
care before, during, and after surgery. My commitment and responsibility are to this program but most
importantly to my students and I will ensure that you are prepared for this new and exciting adventure
you are about to embark on.