I'm considering becoming a surgical technologist and live in San Diego. I'm looking for advice on how to find highly-rated surgical tech programs in the area. Also, if anyone has attended one, I'd love to hear your experiences.
San Diego is luckily home to several colleges that offer accredited surgical technology programs. Here are a few key tips on identifying the best ones:
1. Accreditation: Make sure the program is either regionally accredited or recognized by a specialized accrediting agency such as the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). This ensures that the school meets certain curriculum standards and you'll be eligible for certification exams when you graduate.
2. Curricula: Look for programs that offer a well-rounded curriculum that includes classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical rotations. It should cover topics like surgical procedures, sterilization practices, and patient care.
3. Certification Exam Pass Rates: High pass rates on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam are often a good indicator of a premier program, as it suggests the curriculum successfully prepares students for the certification process.
4. Post-Graduation Support: Seek out programs that offer a solid support system for graduates, including job placement or internship opportunities in nearby hospitals and clinics.
In San Diego, some potential options include San Diego Mesa College and Concorde Career College, both of which offer surgical technology programs. However, do your own research to identify the one that suits your personal and academic needs best.
If you get the chance, you should definitely visit the campuses, sit in on a class if possible, and speak with current students and professors. They can provide valuable insights into what you can expect from the program that you won't find in a brochure.
I hope this helps and best of luck with your endeavor to become a surgical technologist!
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