WKCTC Students Recognize National Surgical Technologist Week

Surgical technology students at West Kentucky Community and Technical College took treats to area clinical sites in recognition of National Surgical Technologist Week September 15-21.

Surgical technologists are members of operating room teams who, under the supervision of a surgeon or other surgical personnel, ensure that the operating room is safe and that equipment functions properly. Their duties include setting up surgical instruments and equipment, ensuring the equipment works properly, preparing sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. During surgery, surgical techs pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon assistants, but they also may hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments.

The demand for surgical technologists is on the rise in western Kentucky as well as throughout the country, with some hospitals even offering large monetary incentives to surgical techs they hire. WKCTC's surgical technology program offers a two-year associate in applied science degree.

For more information, contact Debbie Swain at debbie.swain@kctcs.edu.