How to Become a Surgical Tech in Oregon

Have you ever been captivated by the intricate preparations in an operating room before surgery?

If so, you’ll be intrigued to learn about a crucial role that ensures the smooth functioning of these rooms for medical personnel and patients.

This role is that of a surgical technician, a profession that involves sterilizing equipment, preparing patients for surgery, and assisting in the surgical process.

We’re here to guide you on your journey to becoming a surgical tech in Oregon, a career that can be both challenging and immensely rewarding.

Licensing Requirements to Become

Embarking on a career as a surgical technician in Oregon requires a specific path.

The first step is to complete an accredited Surgical Tech program.

This program must be recognized by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), or certified by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Educational Schools (ABHES).

Let’s delve into the details of these licensing requirements.

Before embarking on your journey to become a surgical technician, it’s essential to understand the commitment involved.

Attending an accredited program is a must, as your coursework may not count otherwise.

Each individual is responsible for conducting thorough research before selecting a program.

Remember, gaining educational experience is just the first step.

You must also pass the CST exam before applying for work, as the state of Oregon requires certification before you can start your career.

Certification programs range from one-year certificates to two-year associate degrees.

Students who pass the courses can sit for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam held by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

3 Surgical Tech Schools in Oregon

Aspiring surgical technicians in Oregon, it’s crucial to choose an accredited program that can equip you for the NBSTSA certification exam.

This decision will shape your future career, and we’re here to help you make an informed choice.

Let’s explore Oregon’s three top-notch surgical technician and technologist programs.

Linn-Benton Community College

Linn-Benton Community College offers surgical technician and technologist programs.

The college is located in Albany, OR, and offers an in-person program.

Students must complete 360 hours of coursework and 120 cases in a clinical practicum.

LBCC has already partnered with multiple hospitals, making it easy for students to get real-world work experience.

Students who attend the program must maintain a C average or better in their classes, or they will forfeit clinical practicums.

Tuition can be paid through financial aid or scholarship opportunities.

Concorde Career College

Concorde is in Portland, OR, and features a Surgical Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree Program.

The program spans 17 months and includes 68 credit hours and 300 lab hours.

Students will also spend 570 clinical hours by working under a surgical technician in a workplace setting.

Once students complete the degree program, they can sit for the official licensing exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

If passed, students will become officially licensed and can begin work immediately.

Applicants will need to contact the college for tuition, as they do not provide information online.

As for payment, students can apply for financial aid or scholarships.

Mt. Hood Community College

Mt. Hood is located in Gresham, OR, and offers a surgical technician degree.

The school only accepts 20–24 students each fall term, meaning students must meet certain criteria before applying, as it is competitive.

Prerequisite courses must be taken to be accepted into the program.

The prerequisites are the following:

• BI231 Human Anatomy and Physiology
• BI234 Microbiology
• MTH058 or MTH065 or higher
• WR115 or WR121Z (or placement* into WR121Z since 4/19/2019)

Students can also take the Accuplacer College Placement Test (CPT) to help determine their skill requirements.

This allows students to pass the prerequisites.

Tuition is estimated at $13,012 based on six terms in the program and includes fees.

Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are offered.

Surgical Technician Schools in Oregon – Summary Table

Salary

A certified surgical technician in Oregon will make an average salary of $53,100.

The pay generally falls between $47,800 to $58,800.

However, experienced surgical techs can make up to $63,990.

Regional Salary in Oregon