How to Become a Surgical Tech in Oregon

The operating rooms in Oregon are staffed with a dedicated team of professionals who are always prepared to respond, particularly in emergency situations.

This team includes:

• Surgeons
• Anesthesia specialist
• Surgical nurse
• Surgical technician

Their collaboration begins before the surgery commences and continues until after the surgery has concluded.

These professionals are also referred to by alternative titles such as “operating room (OR) techs” and “scrub techs.”

Job Description and Duties of a Surgical Technologist in Oregon

Surgical technologists in Oregon are responsible for a range of tasks during their shifts, which may include:

• Preparing patients for surgery
• Transporting patients to and from the OR
• Preparing the OR with surgical equipment and supplies
• Monitoring the instrument count throughout surgery
• Handing the surgeon medical instruments
• Closing wounds and bandaging patients

These are not the only responsibilities of these healthcare professionals, but they provide a snapshot of their role.

Training and Education for Surgical Technologists in Oregon

Surgical technologists in Oregon are not regulated by a specific governing body but are typically employed by healthcare institutions.

Nevertheless, securing a job in this field is not without its challenges.

Here is an overview of the educational and training process.

The journey to becoming a surgical technologist in Oregon typically begins with a high school diploma or GED.

Aspiring surgical technologists should enroll in a specialized training program designed for this profession.

This program typically combines classroom education with clinical training.

While different institutions may have slightly varying requirements, common course subjects include:

• Microbiology,
• Pathophysiology,
• Pharmacology,
• Anatomy,
• Physiology,
• Medical terminology

Certification in CPR, BLS, or AED may also be necessary.

Some Oregon institutions that offer training programs include:

Bevill State Community College

Prospective students may need to meet specific prerequisites, which could include:

• Holding a high school diploma or GED
• Passing placement exams
• Fulfilling health insurance requirements.

Previous medical-related experience and military service may also be considered.

Completing a minimum number of clinical cases is usually required, with specific requirements for cases in general surgery and first scrub roles.

Minimum scores in standardized tests, such as the ACT or Accuplacer, may also be necessary.

The training program typically consists of a certain number of course credits that must be completed.

Mt. Hood Community College

This college gives you the opportunity to pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree in Surgical Technology.

This comprehensive program spans a two-year duration and comes at a tuition cost of approximately $11,477 for the entire curriculum.

It’s worth noting that students who choose to work while enrolled are advised to limit their work hours to no more than 16 per week, as this program demands significant time and commitment.

Once accepted into the program, students have up to 5 years to complete it.

They also maintain a grade of at least “C” in all classes related to surgical technology.

They graduate only after passing the certification exam.

Concorde Career College

This school, on the other hand, provides a more expedited route to a surgical technology diploma.

In just 18 months, you can complete this program, which features a practical curriculum and valuable off-site clinical experiences.

The current tuition for this program stands at $23,500.

If the tuition is too high for you, why don’t you check with the school if you qualify for financial aid or a scholarship program? it might work out for you.

Certification for Surgical Technologists in Oregon

While certification is not a legal requirement, employers in Oregon often prefer to hire certified surgical technologists.

Several certifying bodies offer relevant certifications, including:

• National Surgical Assistant Association (NSAA)
  • Provides the Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) qualification
• National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA)
  • Provides the Certified Surgical Technologist/Certified First Assistant credential
• National Center for Competency Training (NCCT)
  • Provides the Tech in Surgery Certification

Among these, the certification offered by NBSTSA is highly regarded and nationally recognized.

The certification exam usually consists of 200 questions and a minimum of 119 correct answers is required to pass.

The exam incurs an associated fee, which varies for members and non-members of the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST).

Certification renewal is required every four years and can be achieved through either retaking the certification exam (with an associated fee) or completing continuing education credits (60 during the renewal period) along with a renewal fee payment.

Surgical Technologist Salary in Oregon

While it may not be the most glamorous profession, it’s important to consider the potential income in Oregon.

Surgical technologists in Oregon can earn an average annual salary of around $51,700.

The following table will show you which cities in Oregon offer higher salaries for these professionals compared to the rest of the state.

Regional Salary in Oregon

Surgical Tech Programs by State