Manley “Srubs-In” to Surgery at Rasmussen University, Highlights Operating Patient Safety Act

ROMEOVILLE, IL. State Representative Natalie Manley, (D-Joliet), visited Rasmussen University’s Romeoville campus last week to tour its surgical technology program and gain a deeper understanding of the critical role these professionals play in the operating room. During the visit, Manley participated in a hands-on mock surgery simulation.

Surgical technologists are essential members of the surgical team, responsible for preparing the operating room, ensuring all equipment and instrumentation are sterile and functional, maintaining the sterile field, and assisting surgeons directly throughout operations. To better appreciate the complexities of their duties, Manley “scrubbed-in” alongside students and instructors.

“Nothing could have better demonstrated the importance of reliably well-trained operating room professionals when I, to the shock of everybody watching, accidentally ripped the appendix out of the ‘patient’ while playing surgeon,” said Manley. “Participating in the mock surgery simulation gave me a real appreciation for the intense focus and skill needed to ensure everything in the operating room is prepared correctly and functions seamlessly. The role of surgical technologists, especially in patient safety, should not be underestimated in achieving successful surgical outcomes."

The visit comes after Manley supported the Operating Patient Safety Act. Manley chairs the Illinois House Healthcare Availability & Access Committee.  This legislation addresses the critical nature of the surgical technologist's role by requiring newly hired surgical technologists in Illinois to have graduated from an accredited surgical technology program and to hold a current national certification.

"Surgical technologists work directly alongside surgeons in high-stakes environments, and their expertise is crucial," Manley stated. "That's why I was proud to support the Operating Patient Safety Act. Ensuring that new technologists meet high standards through accredited education and national certification is a common-sense measure that directly enhances patient safety and care quality across our state. I’d like to thank Rasmussen University for this invaluable learning experience.”

Manley added, “We all agreed that it was a good thing I decided to become an accountant and not a surgical tech.”

Pictured: Rep. Manley performs mock surgery with her Deputy Chief of Staff, Noah Martinez, Rasmussen University, Romeoville

Pictured: Rep. Natalie Manley and Rasmussen University faculty, students, Romeoville