Surgical Technology
Program Mission
The Surgical Technology program of Northwest Technical Institute is committed to providing surgical technology education for students wishing to enter a recognized health care profession so that they may achieve competence requirements for national certification by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting.
What does a Surgical Tech do?
Keeps the surgical environment sterile. Passes instruments, sutures, and sponges during surgery. Learns how to work within a sterile environment that surrounds the patients during a surgical procedure. Learns to work in a fast paced environment with t heir hands both as part of a team and independently as well.
Who should consider this field?
Anyone that likes to work in a fast paced environment, is able to work with his/her hands and enjoys being part of a team, but can function independently.
2010 Average Hourly Pay Rate of AST Members by State *This information has been reprinted with permission of the Association of Surgical Technologists, Inc.
File Completion Requirements
- Surgical Technology Application Packet and DD-214, if applicable
- COMPASS Test Scores The COMPASS Test is a Basic English and Math exam. There is a $10.00 fee for this test; the test may be taken Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. A photo ID is required the day of testing. Please call 751-8824 ext. 244 to confirm testing availability.
- HOBET Test Scores The HOBET Test is the Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test. There is a fee for this test; the test may be taken Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. A photo ID is required the day of testing. This is a timed test. Please allow three hours to complete the test. Please call 751-8824 ext. 244 to confirm testing availability.
- High School Transcript or GED scores / College transcripts All high school and college transcripts need to be OFFICIAL transcripts. (An “Official Transcript” means it has the embossed school seal imprint and is sent directly to the NTI Admissions Office from the previously attended school). You will be responsible for any fees involved.
- Immunization Records: Measles & Rubella (MMR), if born on or after January 1, 1957. If you are one of the top applicants, you will need a negative TB skin test or a chest x-ray (allow three working days to complete this test).
- Two Employment References
Deadline for File Completion: May 1st
Please contact Angie Galindo regarding any paperwork at 479-751-8824, ext 116 from 8:00 – 4:30pm
Certification
Surgical Tech. students will take the National Certification Test prior to graduation.
Surgical Technology Objectives
- To demonstrate understanding that each patient is an individual who has placed his or her trust in the surgical team.
- To demonstrate basic principles and procedures utilized in the surgical suite.
- To identify and provide a safe patient environment.
- To respect the patient's right to confidentiality, privacy, and dignity.
- To demonstrate professionalism in all aspects of surgical care.
- To demonstrate personal responsibility for his or her own actions, recognizing legal and ethical implications in the care of the patient.
- To recognize that education is continuous and each surgical technologist has the responsibility to utilize resources available to him or her.
- To demonstrate effective communication skills when interacting with the surgical team.
- To perform as an entry-level surgical technologist on all basic procedures.
Length of Program: Two Semesters and One Summer Term
Approximate Cost of Books and Supplies: $5,425.00*
Maximum Enrollment Limit: 18
*tuition subject to change without notice
