Students Celebrate National Surgical Technologists Week

Published 09.27.2016

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Nursing & Health Sciences
Surgical Technology
Student News

Students in Pennsylvania College of Technology’s surgical technology major joined hospitals and colleges throughout the country in celebrating National Surgical Technologists Week, Sept. 18-24.

National Surgical Technologists Week is a promotional event by the Association of Surgical Technologists to celebrate those who work in the field. This year’s theme was “Get Hooked.” To help educate others about the field of surgical technology, surgical technology students set up a display in the Madigan Library.

Members of the Penn College surgical technology class of 2017 gather for National Surgical Technologists Week. Standing (from left) are Travis J. Honicker, of Coal Township; Katelyn M. Bittner, of Williamsport; Melina S. Digruttola, of Spring Grove; Kelob J. Herman, of Jersey Shore; Sydney N. Caurvina, of Portage; Cynthia M. Wilt, of Hughesville; Sarah J. Palm, of Hesston; Janell M. Remensnyder, of Alexandria; and Michael R. Harer of Williamsport. Seated front (from left) are Megan L. Hawk, of Williamsport; Daniele A. Hebert, of Mechanicsburg; Cindy M. Ruiz, of Easton; and Rebecca L. Knee, of Williamsport.Surgical technologists make the operating room efficient while ensuring patient safety. The work demands attention to detail and procedures. They work under the supervision of a surgeon to facilitate the safe and effective conduct of surgical procedures. They prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment and help doctors during surgeries.

Penn College’s surgical technology major helps to prepare the graduate to take the national certification exam in surgical technology, to enter the workforce and to continue his or her education.

The role of the surgical technologist began during World War II, when the need for perioperative personnel was overwhelming, and evolved into a separate allied health field.

Today, advances in medical technology, including robotic-assisted procedures, have made surgery safer, less invasive, more precise and effective. As a result, increasing numbers of intricate and complex operations are being done to treat a variety of illnesses and injuries, boosting employment opportunities for surgical technologists.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for surgical technologists to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.

To learn more about Penn College’s Surgical Technology Program, call 570-327-4519.

For information about Penn College, a national leader in applied technology education and workforce development, email the Admissions Office or call toll-free 800-367-9222.