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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
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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