Gwinnett Technical College (GTC) offers a Surgical Technology program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to excel in this critical healthcare profession. As a surgical technologist, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe and effective delivery of patient care during surgical procedures.
Program Overview
The Surgical Technology program at GTC is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and is designed to prepare students for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam. The program's curriculum is divided into classroom instruction, lab training, and clinical experience, providing students with a comprehensive education in surgical technology.
Program Objectives
The Surgical Technology program at GTC aims to:
- Provide students with a solid foundation in the principles and practices of surgical technology
- Equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to function effectively as a member of a surgical team
- Prepare students for the CST exam and certification
- Foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills in students
Curriculum and Coursework
The Surgical Technology program at GTC consists of 64 credit hours of coursework, including:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Surgical Technology Fundamentals
- Pharmacology for Surgical Technologists
- Surgical Procedures
- Patient Assessment and Care
- Sterilization and Instrumentation
- Surgical Technology Lab
- Clinical Experience
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the Surgical Technology program at GTC, applicants must:
- Meet the college's general admission requirements
- Complete a background check and provide proof of immunizations
- Take the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) A2 entrance exam
- Complete a program application and submit required documents
Clinical Experience
Clinical experience is an essential component of the Surgical Technology program at GTC. Students participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers, where they gain hands-on experience in the operating room and develop their skills in patient care and surgical technology.
Certification and Job Prospects
Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the CST exam and become certified surgical technologists. Certified surgical technologists are in high demand, and job prospects are excellent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Why Choose GTC's Surgical Technology Program?
GTC's Surgical Technology program offers:
- Small class sizes and personalized instruction
- State-of-the-art lab facilities and equipment
- Clinical experience at local hospitals and surgical centers
- Preparation for the CST exam and certification
- Job placement assistance and career counseling
If you're interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology, GTC's program is an excellent choice. With its comprehensive curriculum, clinical experience, and certification preparation, you'll be well-prepared to succeed in this rewarding healthcare profession.
What is the job outlook for surgical technologists?
+According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
What is the average salary for surgical technologists?
+The average salary for surgical technologists varies by location and experience, but according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists was $50,110 in May 2020.
Do I need to be certified to work as a surgical technologist?
+While certification is not always required, it is highly recommended. The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is the most common certification for surgical technologists and is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).