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In This Issue:
Profiles of Excellence
The thought of a new career crept into the back of Susan Graham’s mind in early 2004 and wouldn’t leave.
“I reached a point where I was ready for new challenges,” said Graham, who had been an assistant director at a pre-school and a teacher for many years. “I was mentally shifting and trying to figure out what to do next.” When a MassBay Community College pamphlet showcasing the surgical technologist program showed up in her mail box, Graham immediately signed up for the one-year evening program.
“It sounded so exciting,” said Graham, who spent her clinical rotations at BWH and has worked here since graduating from the program in early 2005. She spends most of her four 10-hour shifts per week in neurological and kidney transplant surgeries.
Graham’s role includes setting up the operating room before surgery, sterilizing the surgical field and ensuring the proper instruments and medicines are readily available. Once surgery begins, Graham’s job is to pass all the instruments and medicines a patient needs to the surgeon.
Graham realizes the importance of compassion in her role. “Whatever procedure a patient is having is a major event in his or her life. It doesn’t hurt to put your self in the patient’s shoes,” she said. “Being a good surgical tech requires empathy, focusing on the patient, being in the moment and being there for them.”
Surgical techs also need the ability to handle high-pressure situations. “We have to anticipate what the next move is and always try to think one step ahead,” Graham said.
Inspired to continue teaching, Graham became a coach for students and works to create a team atmosphere. “It’s all about working together,” she said.
Susan Graham was invited to speak about her experience as a surgical tech to graduating students at MassBay Community College in August. Here is an excerpt from her inspiring speech to those entering the surgical technology field.
“Being a surgical tech is not just having a job skill, it is a privilege. It is also a tremendous responsibility. It is more than merely passing instruments. It is about learning surgical procedures, anticipating the next step and having that instrument ready, constantly watching to make sure proper aseptic technique is maintained.
You are an integral part of a team working together to get the best outcome. Everyday you are caring for human life on a very personal level. These patients need you to perform to the best of your ability so that they will heal, feel better, and in some emergency situations, survive. Some are going to walk out and have a full life, and some need your help in managing their care for the life they have remaining. You, as well as the rest of the team, are an advocate for these patients, ensuring they will have the best care possible.”