Perioperative Management of the Surgical Patient I

Catalog description

This course advances the student’s knowledge and technical proficiency in the role of the surgical assistant through a detailed study of surgical procedures across multiple specialties. Emphasis is placed on the correlation of surgical anatomy and pathophysiology to operative technique, patient positioning, and intraoperative decision-making. Students analyze complex surgical cases to identify the critical responsibilities of the assistant in ensuring exposure, hemostasis, tissue handling, and wound closure. Content includes principles and techniques for procedures in general surgery, obstetric/gynecologic, genitourinary, orthopedic, plastic and reconstructive, neurosurgical, cardiothoracic, and peripheral vascular specialties. Additional focus is placed on the integration of robotic and minimally invasive surgery (MIS), procurement and transplantation, and emerging surgical technologies. Students apply aseptic technique, anticipate the surgeon's needs, and assist with complex intraoperative maneuvers that require precision and coordination. This capstone course bridges didactic learning and clinical performance by requiring students to demonstrate critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork in surgical environments. Aligned with Core Curriculum for Surgical Assisting (pp. 44-57), the course ensures mastery of surgical assisting competencies across diverse specialties to prepare students for independent practice as entry-level Certified Surgical First Assistants (CSFAs).