Surgical Technology

What Can I Do With A Major In Surgical Technology?

Surgical technologists are allied health professionals who are an integral part of the team of medical practitioners providing surgical care to patients in a variety of settings. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists and registered nurses.

Surgical Technologists often function as the sterile member of the surgical team. They must be able to anticipate the needs of surgeons, pass instruments, sutures and sponges and other sterile items in an efficient manner.

With the supervision of the surgeon, the surgical technologist may also be involved in holding retractors or instruments, sponging or suctioning the operative site or cutting suture material. They may also be involved in preparing and applying sterile and non-sterile dressings. After surgery, they may prepare the operating room for the next patient.

Surgical Technologists also may perform the role of assistant circulator, which is a nonsterile position. The assistant circulator is available to respond to the needs of the members of the sterile field.

Students are encouraged to take the national certification exam following graduation. They can then use the credential Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

The Surgical Technology program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Programs (CAAHEP) in cooperation with the Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology (ARC-ST).

To meet the needs for surgical technologists state-wide, this program has Outreach sites in Butte, Billings and Great Falls.

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