AST Creating the Surgical Environment

The proficient CST demonstrates a caring attitude towards the patient, other surgical team members and the patient-care environment. It is also necessary to understand normal anatomy and physiology, the pathological condition affecting the patient, the planned operative procedure, and consider any variations that may be necessary to accommodate a specific patient. A common misconception about surgical technolo¬gists is that nurses are more qualified to work in the OR because their educational program is often longer. However, during the 1970s, the operative environment was dropped from most nursing curricula. The surgical technology graduate receives more in-depth education in the specialized processes and procedures that exist in surgery. Often, nurses who enter the OR environment are trained on the job by surgical technologists. CSTs AND CSFAs ARE SPECIFICALLY EDUCATED FOR THE OPERATIVE ENVIRONMENT. Surgical technology students receive in-depth practical knowledge and substantive clinical education related to the OR. The surgical technology educational program ranges from 10 months, to earn a diploma or certificate, to two years to obtain an associate’s degree. These programs not only include intensive hours in the class¬room, but also extensive clinical experience in health care facilities. Surgical technology students study anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, principles of asepsis, surgical techniques, patient preparation and care of surgical instruments and equipment. Surgical technology educational programs are accredited through a formal accreditation process involving the American College of Surgeons and Association of Surgical Technologists. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP) is the professionally-recognized accrediting body for surgical technology programs. CAAHEP accredits programs representing 21 allied health 3 A S S O C I A T I O N O F S U R G I C A L T E C H N O L O G I S T S