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Advanced Career Education Center at Hermitage

Surgical Technologist

Surgical Technologist (New for 2026)

  • New in 2026–2027: Program-specific course content will be weighted as Honors-level coursework. See Program Coursework below for more details.

    Prerequisites:

    • Must be a Junior
    • Biology: Grade “C” or better
    • Algebra I: Grade “C” or better

  • This two-year program prepares students for future study and careers in surgical technology through classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and clinical training. Students learn how surgical technologists support surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals in the operating room, ensuring patient safety and sterile technique.

  • This is a highly physical, hands-on course. Students are active every day and should expect extended standing, wearing surgical attire, and working in hospital-based environments. Instruction includes direct practice with surgical procedures, aseptic techniques, patient preparation, and handling surgical instruments. Students must be comfortable working under pressure, following precise instructions, and maintaining professionalism in fast-paced clinical situations.

  • Students engage in structured clinical observation opportunities and supervised training in approved healthcare facilities. These experiences are designed to introduce students to professional surgical settings, workplace expectations, confidentiality principles, and the roles of allied health professionals in the operating room.

  • Students are expected to participate in HOSA – Future Health Professionals, a national student organization focused on leadership development, teamwork, and healthcare career readiness.In addition to earning course credit, students are eligible to work toward industry-recognized credentials, including:

    These credentials allow students to graduate with documented skills, certifications, and career preparation—not just a grade.

     

  • This program operates like a healthcare workplace. Students are expected to purchase specific work attire for daily wear when attending classes:

    • Wear required work attire daily
    • Display a visible ID badge at all times

    Demonstrate professional behavior, punctuality, accountability, and respectful communication.

    A diagram titled 'Surgical Technologist' labels the uniform components worn by two standing medical professionals.

Program Description

2 years – 6 credits – Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage

This program is designed to be completed in two years during the 11th and 12th grade.

Surgical Technologist I - 3 Credits (Honors) Students acquire knowledge and assisting-level skills to function in association with licensed nurses and surgeons/physicians, providing the best possible care of the surgical patient. Instruction emphasizes human anatomy, medical terminology, cleanliness, asepsis, safety, and efficiency in the operating room. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills.

Surgical Technologist II - 3 Credits (Honors) This high-school-extended course offers classroom instruction and clinical training in selected approved health care facilities under the direction of an approved educator. Students practice surgical procedures and aseptic techniques, including patient preparation and handling of materials and surgical instruments at the surgical field. Upon successful completion of the program, students qualify to take the national certification exam for surgical technologists. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills.

Instructor

Mallory Downey CST