Surgical technology program receives continuing accreditation

Published 10.08.2021

News
Nursing & Health Sciences
Surgical Technology

Pennsylvania College of Technology’s surgical technology program was granted continuing accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Upon recommendation of the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting, the commission found the college’s surgical technology program to be in compliance with all of its accreditation standards and guidelines, with the next comprehensive evaluation to occur in 2031. The approval was granted during the commission’s Sept. 17 meeting.



Pennsylvania College of Technology’s surgical technology major – which provides hands-on education on campus in mock operating suites, as well as experience in area health care facilities – was granted continued accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.During a virtual site visit in May, a team from the Accreditation Review Council praised the college for its well-equipped and well-organized lab, communication between the college and its clinical sites, and its supportive advisory committee. The council consists of experts in the profession who are responsible for reviewing programs and making appropriate recommendations for accreditation.

The Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting is sponsored by the American College of Surgeons and Association of Surgical Technologists. Its mission is to provide accreditation services that validate excellence of educational programs in order to advance the profession and ensure quality patient care.

Penn College offers an associate degree in surgical technology. Graduates of the major can complete the college’s bachelor’s degree in applied health studies with an additional two years of online coursework.

Surgical technologists are employed mainly in operating rooms, delivery rooms, clinics and surgical centers. They also work in private surgeons’ and dentists’ offices. They assist with the setup of the operating room and can prepare the patient for surgery. They assist surgeons during procedures and pass instruments, supplies and equipment to the surgeon and surgical assistants, anticipating needs based on a thorough knowledge of the surgical procedure. They are responsible for all surgical supplies and maintaining a sterile field.

On campus, Penn College’s surgical technology students participate in mock surgeries. The Surgical Technology Laboratory consists of two operating suites with operating tables and lights, anatomically correct manikins, laparoscopic instruments, and a variety of other surgical instruments.

As part of their training, the students also gain hands-on experience in local hospitals.

To learn more about surgical technology at Penn College, call 570-327-4519.

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