Surgical Sciences

Catalog description

This course explores the foundational and advanced scientific principles that underpin safe, effective, and evidence-based surgical practice. Emphasis is placed on integrating physiological chemistry, technological sciences, pharmacology, anesthesia, infection control, hemostasis, wound management, and disaster preparedness into the surgical assistant's perioperative role. Students examine how physiological and technological processes interact during surgery to maintain homeostasis, optimize patient outcomes, and ensure procedural safety. Course topics include electricity and robotics in surgery, minimally invasive and image-guided technologies, fluid and electrolyte balance, acid-base regulation, shock management, and pharmacologic principles relevant to anesthesia and pain control. Additional emphasis is placed on infection prevention, surgical site management, coagulation and blood replacement therapy, wound healing, and the principles of all-hazards and disaster response. The course incorporates lecture, case study analysis, and laboratory-based skill development to reinforce application of theoretical knowledge in simulated and clinical environments. Consistent with the Core Curriculum for Surgical Assisting (pp. 13-27), this course prepares students to apply critical thinking, advanced problem-solving, and procedural competence in surgical situations that require integrating scientific and technical knowledge.