Essential Skills

A candidate for a certificate in surgical technology must have the abilities and skills necessary to complete the educational requirements as defined by the national accrediting body for national certification.  The following is a representative list of the essential skills, with or without accommodation, expected of students enrolled in the surgical technology program.

1. Communication Skills:
   • Effectively communicate with surgeons and co-workers regarding requirements and supplies for surgical procedures while all are wearing masks
   • Effectively communicate directions to peers
   • Accurately and efficiently follow directions
   • Provide effective, coherent, legibly written communication
   
   
2. Conceptual and Analytical Reasoning:
   • Apply didactic knowledge effectively in the clinical setting
   • Demonstrate ability to analyze distinct situations and utilize critical thinking in the process of delivering safe and appropriate care to clients
   • Exercise good judgment in problem solving
   
   
3. Social Skills:
   • Perform effectively under stress
   • Display flexibility
   • Demonstrate compassion
   • Develop positive and effective relationships with physicians, staff, and peers
   
   
4. Manual Dexterity and Motor Skills:
   • Demonstrate ability to perform surgical scrub using standard equipment
   • Gown, glove, and mask appropriately
   • Perform surgical procedures employing sterile technique
   • Identify and pass instruments, supplies, and suture/needle combinations in rooms dimly lit or very bright
   • Attach and manipulate power equipment and endoscopic cameras
   
   
5. Physical Strength
   • Assist with transferring anesthetized patients
   • Lift, move, and carry instrument trays weighing up to 17 - 21 pounds
   • Stand, sometimes with little movement, for four - five hours
   
   
6. Observation and Sensory Skills
   • React/respond to signals, alarms, and other displays indicating immediate patient need
   • Judge obstacles encountered during movement around sterile area, i.e. cords on floor, low ceiling lights.
   • Immediately identify and respond to breaks in aseptic technique by anyone in the sterile area