National Surgical Technologist Week

ROCK HILL—The Association of Surgical Technologists has declared this week (Sept. 20-26) as National Surgical Technologist Week in recognition of the profession's contribution to the care of patients.

On Thursday, September 24, Piedmont Medical Center staff along with York Technical College Surgical Technology students and faculty will set up a simulated operating room at the hospital beginning at 8 a.m. The media is invited to join them to learn more about the vital role performed by these skilled professionals. On Wednesday, September 23, a similar event will be held at the Chester Regional Medical Center beginning at 9 a.m.

York Tech's Surgical Technology program offers classroom and clinical experiences for the entry-level surgical technologist. To help the student fulfill his/her role as an important, knowledgeable member of the surgical team, courses are included in the following areas:

The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

Many graduates choose to work in areas related to surgery such as central sterile supply, private scrub, the OB department, endoscopy, or instrument sales. Opportunities are also available to work as cell saver technicians, anesthesia technicians, veterinary assistants, oral-surgical assistants, and medical office assistants.

The Association of Surgical Technologists was established in 1969 by members of the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Hospital Association (AHA), and the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN). As the oldest and most widely recognized professional organization for surgical technologists, AST's primary purpose is to ensure that surgical technologists have the knowledge and skills to administer patient care of the highest quality. For more information, visit the association's website at www.ast.org.

For more information about National Surgical Technologist Week, contact Sandra Farley at (803) 981-7149 or John Ratliff at (803) 981-7071.