From scalpels to microbes, TSTC Surgical Technology students train for operating room roles

(HARLINGEN, Texas) - Surgical Technology students at Texas State Technical College's Harlingen campus experience a rewarding medical education in preparation for their work in operating rooms.

Their commitment takes on added significance during National Surgical Technologists Week, which is observed annually during the third week of September and was designated as such in 1984 by the Association of Surgical Technologists Board of Directors to recognize surgical technologists and their profession.

Among TSTC's Surgical Technology students are Frank Cantu and Ashley Monreal, who recently shared what they are learning at the college.

Cantu, of Los Fresnos, is a new student who is studying for an Associate of Applied Science degree.

"What I learned about the surgical hands scrub is that it should be done thoroughly for five minutes," he said of a recent lab session. "I rinsed and lathered my hands. I scrubbed and picked my nails. Then I cleaned my forearms, followed by up to two inches from above my elbows. As for gowning and gloving, I didn't do great. But it was my first time trying it. It will improve with practice."

Monreal, of San Benito, is a third-semester student in the program.

"I'm learning how to do an arteriovenous fistula in the lab," she said. "It's a surgical incision that connects a vein and an artery. It's done on a patient who would need dialysis."

Monreal said the medical practices that she has learned will make a difference in her career.

"I learned that understanding the concept and skill of an aseptic technique is crucial," she said. "It's a practice that can help prevent an infection in the operation room."

Yolanda Ramirez, TSTC's Surgical Technology program team lead, said the depth of the program's education and training highlights the critical skills and knowledge required to be a successful surgical technologist.

"Students in our program learn not only the technical aspects of surgery such as aseptic technique, instrumentation and sterile processing, but also the soft skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving," she said.

Anna San Pedro, associate provost at TSTC's Harlingen campus, said the program delivers quality instruction in a state-of-the-art facility.

"The program features a dynamic clinical training component," she said. "We partner with 17 clinical affiliates to provide students with hands-on experience and exposure to a wide range of specialties that enhance training and increase employment opportunities after graduation."

According to onetonline.org, surgical technologists can earn a yearly median salary of $59,810 in Texas, where projected job growth for the profession was forecast to increase 18% from 2020 to 2030.

TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology, as well as an occupational skills achievement award in Sterile Processing, at its Harlingen campus.

For more information about National Surgical Technologists Week, visit https://www.ast.org/aboutus/nstw.

For more information about TSTC, visit tstc.edu.

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