The Surgical Technology program prepares graduates for employment as competent, entry-level surgical technologists whose role is essential to the surgical team. Students engage in multimodal learning approaches that span academic studies in the classroom, hands-on laboratory training, and clinical experiences in hospitals, surgical centers and/or clinics. Strong emphasis is placed on learning how to work quickly and effectively anticipate the surgeon’s needs during surgical procedures.
Students are closely supported and supervised as they master knowledge and skills in the practical application of aseptic technique, creating and maintaining the sterile field, safe handling of specimens, and providing pre-, intra-, and post-operative patient care according to established ethical and professional standards.
Penn Commercial’s Surgical Technology Program is just 25 miles southwest of Pittsburgh in Washington, PA. Conveniently located just off I-70, we’re a quick drive for students throughout the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio.
Surgical technologists, also called operating room technicians, assist with operations and surgical procedures. These essential medical professionals prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and help doctors during surgeries. The duties of a surgical technologist typically includes:
The operating room is the ultimate high-stakes work place. It takes a well-coordinated team to make sure procedures are completed successfully. The skills surgical technologists bring to the table make them essential professionals in the medical field. From preparing the operating room with surgical instruments, equipment and supplies, to assisting the surgeon during the operation, surgical technologists are responsible for maintaining an efficient, functional and sterile environment during the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative phases.
Surgical technologists work under the supervision of the surgeon or other surgical personnel. Also referred to as OR technicians, surgical techs and scrub techs, their titles and roles may vary depending on state licensure laws and hospital rules. While many surg techs work in general surgery, some specialize in cardiology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, organ transplantation and other specific areas.
The Surgical Technology Program at Penn Commercial is 21 months (1650 hours). Successful completion of the program awards graduates with an Associate in Specialized Technology degree. Classes are Monday through Friday during daytime hours. Externship hours may vary.
Students in school for Surgical Technology will receive comprehensive training, both in the classroom and in our operating room/lab. Courses for Surgical Technology include:
Receiving real world experience is important for the training and development of every student. Penn Commercial has relationships with many hospitals, clinics and healthcare systems throughout the Pittsburgh area. Current externship/clinical facilities include the following. This list is subject to change.
The Surgical Technology program is approved and accredited by:
The Pennsylvania Department of Education
Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
PROGRAMMATIC ACCREDITATION DISCLOSURE: Penn Commercial Business/Technical School is in the process of seeking programmatic accreditation for the Surgical Technology program from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) www.caahep.org. The CAAHEP accreditation will allow graduates to be eligible to sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Examination through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Graduates who attended Penn Commercial during the initial accreditation process will be eligible to sit for the CST examination upon accreditation approval. Graduates must pass the certification exam to be eligible for employment as a surgical technologist in Pennsylvania.