& Student Handbook - Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

Undergraduate Certificate Programs 59
sterile supplies. Progress of skill mastery is assessed and evaluated by
return demonstration methods. Passing of the Skills Assessment of
aseptic technique, the setting up of a Mayo stand and back table,
draping of the patient, handing and receiving supplies, surgical
instruments, suture, and needles, is required.
SEMESTER FOUR
ST270
Clinical Practicum I (5 cr. /250 hrs.)
Prerequisite: A grade of C (2.0) or better in ST250, and passing of the
Skills Assessment in ST251
Students are assigned to a clinical facility and assist with surgical
procedures within the operative setting under the personal supervision of
a clinical preceptor. This practicum is designed for the student to
integrate knowledge and theory from previous classes and to develop
specific psycho-motor skills as a surgical technologist. Clinical
assignments are based on a set of clinical performance objectives that
must be met prior to the completion of the semester. Students participate
in bi-weekly clinical conferences to debrief current learning and
synthesize knowledge with practice. Also covered in these bi-weekly
sessions are professional topics such as understanding the roles,
responsibilities and variety of personalities that comprise OR settings,
the development of a resume and cover letter, completion of an
application form for employment, and the development of answers to
commonly asked interview questions.
ST280
Clinical Practicum II (5 cr. /250 hrs.)
Prerequisite: Grade of C (2.0) or better in ST270
In this course, the student continues to assume a role with greater
responsibility on the surgical team at a different clinical facility than the
first rotation. Specialty procedures are scheduled as part of the student’s
learning opportunities. Students may have the opportunity to obtain
experience in areas outside of the main operating room, such as labor
and delivery, the instrument room, special procedures area, the
outpatient setting, and other procedure areas. During this course, the
student follows a patient through the entire perioperative experience
from preoperative preparation, through the OR and postop recovery. The
student demonstrates clinical proficiency to an employment-acceptable
level in general and commonly performed specialty procedures. Biweekly
clinical conference days continue for debriefing of the clinical
experience, professional development, and a simulated interview
situation.
Admission Requirement
Applicants must submit an official high school transcript or an official
copy of GED completion. Applicants who took the GED before 2002
must have a minimum score of 300. Beginning with the 2002 series GED
Tests, the minimum passing standard set by the GED Testing Service is
an average of the five individual subject area test scores of 450 or
greater. No prior health care industry experience is required for
admission, however, a background in general math, anatomy/physiology,
biology, health and life sciences, medical terminology, and nursing
assistant skills can be helpful. Students must demonstrate acceptable
physical health that meets the stamina, stress and physical dexterity
requirements of the surgical technology role. Applicants must
demonstrate the language proficiency necessary for successful
undergraduate coursework.
Application Process
Applicants must submit:
1. A completed application form and non-refundable application fee.
2. Transcripts from their high school, GED, and from any post
secondary educational institutions.
3. Completed Health Form documenting physical examination and
immunizations.
4. TB Mantoux tuberculin skin test within the past 12 months. A TB test
will need to be repeated before beginning the Clinical Practicum.
Applicants must complete a criminal ackground check as required by the
State of Minnesota. This check will be repeated every 12 months for
students who are enrolled in the program.
Note: Application materials should be sent to the attention of the Office
of Admission on the Twin Cities campus.