Technical Abilities, Professional Behavior and Cognitive Reasoning Required for the Surgical Technology Program
To provide the minimum standard of patient care, the Surgical Technology student must exhibit the following occupational skills and behavior. This list is not all inclusive.
- Use fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, using both right and left hands that allow the students to safely manipulate needles, blades, sutures, and instruments.
- Perform a full-range body motion, including moving patients and handling, lifting, and pushing heavy equipment.
- Bend, reach, pull, push, stand, stoop, and walk during educational experiences.
- Possess physical stamina, as long periods of standing are required.
- Demonstrate visual acuity (with correction, if needed) within normal range including peripheral vision and reading of fine print.
- Demonstrate auditory acuity (with correction if needed) that includes hearing muffled voices (through a mask) with background noise.
- Wear full surgical attire including personal protective devices.
- Withstand unusual sights and smells, such as cauterized tissue.
- Adapt effectively and use appropriate coping skills in environments with high stress to ensure patient safety.
- Respond quickly and in an emotionally controlled manner in emergency situations
- Recognize that the work environment will include exposure to diseases and toxic substances.
- Function during procedures or situations that require analytical or critical thinking even during stressful situations.
- Multitask during all phases of patient care.
- Use critical thinking to problem solve when unusual situations arise.
- Anticipate the needs and provide emotional support to team members and the patient.
- Properly document required paperwork in an objective, concise, professional and legible manner.
- Demonstrate attentive behavior by focusing intently on the task at hand.
- Integrate and prioritize duties.
- Adapt to various assignments and Clinical rotations and possibly work irregular hours.
- Possess a stable temperament and handle constructive criticism.
- Communicate in a rational and coherent manner both orally and in writing.
- Perform at an acceptable standard skill set.
- Provide quality patient care and follow all safety requirements.
- Adhere to AST Code of Ethics http://www.ast.org/AboutUs/Position_Statements/