The role of a surgical technologist includes setting up the operating room, preparing surgical instruments and assisting in their use, and preparing patients for surgery. The technologist has primary responsibility for maintaining the sterile field, ensuring that all members of the operating team adhere to aseptic technique, and preparing and applying sterile dressings following procedures. STs are employed in hospital operating rooms, delivery rooms, cast rooms, emergency departments, ambulatory care areas and central supply departments. They also are used in clinics and surgicenters. The employment outlook for this occupational area is very good.
Course work includes both classroom and clinical instruction.
Multiple clinical sites are used to expose students to a variety of surgical settings. Successful completion of the program also permits the graduate to sit for the national certifying examination. Space in the program is limited. Admission to College of DuPage does not guarantee acceptance in the ST program. All ST courses are taught at the West Chicago facility.