San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC) is a private for-profit college with multiple campuses in California, offering a range of programs in fields such as healthcare, technology, and business. One of the programs offered by SJVC is the Surgical Technology program, which is designed to prepare students for a career as a surgical technologist. In this article, we will provide an overview of the SJVC Surgical Technology program, including its curriculum, admission requirements, and career outcomes.
What is Surgical Technology?
Surgical technology is a field of healthcare that involves assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, are responsible for preparing operating rooms, sterilizing equipment, and assisting with patient care during surgery. They play a critical role in ensuring that surgical procedures are performed safely and efficiently.
SJVC Surgical Technology Program Curriculum
The SJVC Surgical Technology program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a surgical technologist. The program curriculum includes both classroom and clinical training, and covers topics such as:
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Anatomy and Physiology
+ Students learn about the structure and function of the human body, including the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. -
Surgical Procedures
+ Students learn about different types of surgical procedures, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, and cardiovascular surgery. -
Sterilization and Infection Control
+ Students learn about the importance of sterilization and infection control in the operating room, and how to properly sterilize equipment and prepare the operating room for surgery. -
Operating Room Techniques
+ Students learn about the different techniques used in the operating room, including patient positioning, surgical instrumentation, and wound closure. -
Clinical Experience
+ Students participate in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers, where they gain hands-on experience in the operating room.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for the SJVC Surgical Technology program, students must meet the following admission requirements:
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Age
+ Students must be at least 17 years old to apply. -
Education
+ Students must have a high school diploma or equivalent. -
Background Check
+ Students must undergo a background check and provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases. -
Entrance Exam
+ Students must take an entrance exam, such as the Wonderlic or the HESI A2, to assess their knowledge and skills.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the SJVC 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 demonstrates that a surgical technologist has the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of surgical technologists is projected to grow 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is slower than the average for all occupations. However, the demand for skilled surgical technologists is expected to remain high, particularly in hospitals and surgical centers.
Conclusion
The SJVC Surgical Technology program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a surgical technologist. With a combination of classroom and clinical training, students learn about anatomy and physiology, surgical procedures, sterilization and infection control, and operating room techniques. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the CST exam and are prepared for a career in the operating room.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the SJVC Surgical Technology program. If you are interested in learning more about the program, we encourage you to contact SJVC directly.
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist varies depending on location and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for surgical technologists was $49,710 in May 2020.
How long does it take to complete the SJVC Surgical Technology program?
+The SJVC Surgical Technology program typically takes 12-18 months to complete.
Is the SJVC Surgical Technology program accredited?
+Yes, the SJVC Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).