SPRINGFIELD – The surgical technology program at Lincoln Land Community College has received the annual merit award from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) for achieving a 100 percent pass rate on the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination over the past year.
This is the first year the LLCC program, which began in 2012, was eligible to be recognized.
“Accreditation standards require that 70 percent of students pass the exam on the first attempt, and the national pass rate is 69.8 percent, so we are quitepleased with our 100 percent pass rate,” said Janice Lovekamp, director of the LLCC surgical technology program.
Graduates obtaining national certification as a surgical technologist demonstrate, by examination, understanding of the basic competencies for safe-patient care in the operating room.
The CST is recognized as the foremost credential for surgical technologists in the nation. It is required for employment in many healthcare organizations.
LLCC’s five-semester program prepares students for a career as a surgical technologist, working in operating rooms, delivery rooms, ambulatory care centers, physician offices and central sterilizing departments. The program is taught on the LLCC campus in a simulated operating room and classroom, as well as at local clinical sites.
Admission to the program is limited, with attendance at a mandatory information session the first step. The next information session will be held Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 5:30 p.m. in Montgomery Hall on the LLCC campus. Pre-registration is not required.
At the session, prospective students will learn about surgical technology as a career; admission, program and clinical requirements; and general course advising.