Surgical technologists are integral members of a highly skilled surgical team and help facilitate the safe and effective conduct of surgical procedures. They ensure that the operating room environment is safe, equipment functions properly, and that the operative procedure is conducted under conditions that maximize patient safety.

As a surgical technologist, you'll become an expert in the theory and application of the principles of asepsis and sterile technique, and combine those skills with the knowledge of human anatomy, surgical procedures and implementation of instruments, tools and technologies to assist the surgeon during those procedures.

The knowledge you gain will ensure quality patient care during the operative procedure by constantly being on vigil for maintenance of the sterile field.

Our students learn the knowledge and skills to perform safe and effective patient care in the perioperative environment. As a result, our students excel in this high-demand field and enter the job market with a competitive edge.

Some good traits to have if you are thinking of becoming a surgical technologist are:

• Team player
• Honest, responsible and accountable
• Detail oriented and organized
• Hands-on and able to multitask
• Interested in anatomy

Students in Lakeland's surgical technology program:

• Learn surgical instrumentation and equipment.
• Learn how to establish and maintain a sterile field for safe surgical procedures.
• Study safe, perioperative patient care.
• Study surgical procedures in over 14 surgical specialties.
• Learn how to anticipate the needs of their surgeon.
• Develop a strong surgical conscience.
• Learn correct sterilization methods of surgical items.

Students learn from Certified Surgical Technologists who have extensive field experience. 

Learning takes place in Lakeland's perioperative learning lab, which includes a brand-new classroom, simulated operating room, scrub room and sterile processing areas. 

Successful students earn clinical rotations at top hospitals to gain direct experience in the working surgical environment. All surgical technology graduates will earn an Associate's of Applied Science degree, and will sit for the NBSTSA National Certification (CST) Exam.

While studying, many students choose to participate in the Surgical Technologist Association, a student-driven group that provides opportunities for volunteering and community involvement.

If you want to learn more, contact our program director to learn about how to become a surgical technologist and be on your way to a great job in health care.

View this presentation for an inside look at the program

Learn more about surgical technology.

After completing the surgical technology program, motivated students can pursue a bachelor's degree in Allied Health through Lakeland's Holden University Center partners. Explore your options from state colleges and universities right here in Lake County.

• Bowling Green State University
• Youngstown State University