The Surgical Technology Program at West Kentucky Technical College teaches students sterile techniques, effective listening, interpersonal relations, with focus on verbal and nonverbal methods of communicating.

The clinical rotations are coordinated and supervised by instructors who have had extensive experience as operating room technologists and nurses. Graduates are eligible to take the certifying examination of the Association of Surgical Technologists.

The duties of the surgical technologist include: preparing the operating room with instruments, equipment, sterile linens, and fluids that will e needed during an operation; preparing patients for surgery or delivery; preparing sterile instruments during surgery and holding retractors, cutting sutures and counting items used during the operation; assisting with circulating duties, cleaning and maintaining the equipment and environment.

Considerable physical stamina is a requirement of the surgical technologist due to the necessity of walking, listing, and standing for long periods of time.

The Surgical Technologist is a vital member of the surgical team functioning under the direct supervision of the physician or registered nurse in operating rooms, delivery rooms, emergency rooms, and outpatient clinics and offices.