Clinical - Surgical First Assistant II

Catalog description

This advanced practicum provides the culminating clinical experience for surgical assistant students, emphasizing independent performance, clinical judgment, and leadership in the perioperative environment. Under the guidance of qualified preceptors and surgical faculty, students assume greater responsibility as first assistants, demonstrating mastery of surgical assisting skills and professional competence across a broad range of surgical specialties. Students continue to meet and expand upon the Core Curriculum for Surgical Assisting (4th ed.) requirements by refining proficiency in surgical exposure, tissue management, hemostasis, and wound closure techniques. Clinical experiences encompass complex and specialty procedures, including cardiovascular, neurosurgical, orthopedic, thoracic, urologic, gynecologic, plastic, oncologic, minimally invasive, robotic, and transplant surgeries. Students integrate advanced anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to anticipate surgeon needs, respond effectively to intraoperative challenges, and ensure optimal patient outcomes. Through increased autonomy and critical thinking, students apply evidence-based practices, demonstrate leadership within the surgical team, and model ethical behavior and effective communication. This capstone course prepares students for transition into professional practice as Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFAs) capable of functioning as integral members of the surgical team in diverse clinical settings. Proof of Health insurance will be required for all clinical courses.