The surgical technology program ensures that students receive information about known and suspected health hazards and toxic substances which they may be exposed to during clinical experiences.
- Ionizing radiation
- OSHA policies
- CDC-Universal Precautions and Standard Precautions
- Sharps injury and strategies for exposure prevention
- Hazardous materials and waste disposal
- MSDS
- Management of exposure (treatment, risk assessment, prophylaxis for HIV)
- Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, TB
- Laser and electrosurgical plume
- Latex allergy
- Chemical hazards and safety considerations
- Musculoskeletal Injury
- Waste anesthetic gases
- Methyl methacrylate
- Formalin
- Ethylene Oxide (ETO)
- Glutaraldehyde
A student must cease clinical rotation if pregnancy is determined until the student obtains written permission from their physician. Pregnant students need to obtain, and wear a fetal x-ray monitor that is provided by the radiology department at the clinical facility. Pregnant students should not participate in total joint procedures if bone cement (methyl methacrylate) is being utilized. Pregnant students should not assist anesthesia during induction or during intubation. Pregnant students should not be around formalin fumes nor should they be exposed to ethylene oxide fumes. This list is not all encompassing as scientific research related to this topic varies.
Pregnant students must sign a waiver stating that they are aware of the numerous environmental hazards in the operating room area and that that they choose to continue in the Surgical Technology clinical rotation while pregnant. A pregnant student may withdraw from the program and re-enter at a later date by following the policies for withdrawal and re-entry outlined in the Lackawanna College Catalog. Readmission is also dependent upon skills evaluation and competency.
COVID-19
The Surgical Technology Program maintains full compliance with the current guidelines from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). During the interview process and the orientation period students are made aware of possible contact with suspected health hazards. Students are instructed during program courses and are continually evaluated on compliance. Students are also oriented to potentially hazardous materials that are in the classroom/clinical areas and are alerted to the location of the Material Safety Data Sheet Manual (MSDS). Students will receive additional training in both Confidentiality and Safety Precautions through Castle Branch.