Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) are highly-trained professionals who deliver patient care as integral members of the operating team. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, registered nurses and other surgical personnel to ensure quality patient care during the operative procedure.
The CST is responsible for three phases of surgical patient care, or surgical case management, with minimal direction or supervision from other surgical team members. Preoperatively, they prepare the operating room by setting up sterile surgical instruments, equipment and supplies. Intraoperatively, CSTs pass instruments, provide needed supplies and anticipate the needs of the surgeon by having the necessary knowledge of the procedure being performed. They also monitor the sterile field for breaks in sterile technique in order to prevent the patient from acquiring a surgical site infection. Postoperatively, CSTs disassemble the instruments, equipment and supplies, clean the operating room and prepare for the next patient.
Certification Exam
Surgical technologists are certified following successful completion of an accredited surgical technology program and the national surgical technology certification examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting. FVCC had a 100 percent pass rate on the national exam in 2020.
Attributes of Successful Surgical Technologists
- Work quickly and accurately with great commitment to detail
- Ability to prioritize when in stressful and emergent situations
- Stable temperament
- Good manual dexterity, good vision and hearing
Instruction is provided in a classroom and lab setting, as well as clinical rotations at area hospitals and surgery centers. Due to the requirements of the clinical component of the program and our clinical affiliations, enrollment is limited to 8 students each year. A new class of Surgical Technology students begins each year in January.