Surgical Tech Spotlight: From Operating Table to Classroom with Hailee Ellison
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Surgical technologists ensure every instrument is sterile and ready when surgeons need them, serving as vital team members in the operating room while also training future professionals in this specialized healthcare field.
• Discovery of surgical technology often happens unexpectedly, as with Haley who switched from nursing after experiencing her first OR rotation
• Developing a "surgical conscience" means maintaining sterility standards and patient safety even when no one is watching
• Successful surgical techs must master multitasking, anticipating surgeons' needs while monitoring multiple activities in the OR
• Collaboration between surgical techs and sterile processing departments creates crucial safety checks for patient protection
• Standardization through regular meetings between departments enhances efficiency and effectiveness in surgical settings
• Continuing education and professional development pathways are essential for career advancement in surgical technology
• The profession is moving toward licensure to standardize education and practice across all states
• Cleveland Clinic's collaborative approach serves as a model for interdepartmental teamwork in healthcare settings
• First exposure to the OR can be intimidating but provides valuable perspective on the importance of instrument preparation
"Healthcare needs people who care. Don't go into this because you want to make a million dollars. Go into this because you really care about other people and you want to make the world a better place, and you can do that by each surgery that you perform."
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Chapters
1. Meet Haley Ellison: Surgical Tech & Educator (00:00:00)
2. Journey from Student to Certified Professional (00:06:36)
3. Developing a Surgical Conscience (00:11:48)
4. Teaching & Mentoring the Next Generation (00:18:10)
5. Collaboration Between OR and SPD (00:27:22)
6. Future of Surgical Technology (00:36:15)
7. Continuing Education and Career Growth (00:42:24)
8. Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks (00:47:33)
39 episodes