CSFA 2501
Surgical First Assistant Principles I
9 Credit Hours

Students will explore surgical first assisting fundamentals. Topics include surgical first assistant role and responsibilities, perioperative microbiology, pharmacology, electrolytes, fluid & shock, anesthesia principles, surgical site infections, hematological principles, and all-hazards preparation. Concepts of general and obstetric & gynecologic surgeries will also be included. (9 lecture hours)

Prerequisite: Admission to the Surgical First Assistant Program is required.

CSFA 2502
Surgical Laboratory Practicum
6 Credit Hours

Students will be introduced to the perioperative scope of practice of surgical first assistant. Learning competencies will be introduced and tested. Competencies include demonstration of incision types, step-by-step elements of the surgical procedures, concepts of minimally invasive surgical procedures, wound closure, drains, catheter insertion, tourniquet application, dressing application, knot tying, and advanced suturing for a variety of injuries, surgeries, and incisions. (3 lecture hours, 4 lab hours, 8 clinical hours)

Prerequisite: Program admission is required.

CSFA 2503
Surgical First Assistant Principles II
13 Credit Hours

Students will explore the role of the surgical first assistant and the perioperative management of genitourinary, ophthalmic, otorhinolaryngology, orthopedic, plastics, neurological, cardiothoracic, and peripheral vascular surgical services. (9 lecture hours, 16 clinical hours)

Prerequisite: Admission to the Surgical Assisting Program is required. CSFA 2501 and CSFA 2502, both with a grade of C or better, or equivalent.

CSFA 2504
Surgical First Assistant Principles III
7 Credit Hours

Students will participate in a clinical internship as a culmination of course work in the Surgical First Assistant Program. Emphasis will be placed on acquiring proficiencies in the clinical setting. Students will participate in mock national exams and scenarios which will prepare them to take the national certification examination. (4 lecture hours, 12 clinical hours)

Prerequisite: CSFA 2503 with a grade of C or better, or equivalent.