All of the graduates in the surgical technology program at Ivy Tech Community College-Columbus/Franklin have passed the Certification for Surgical Technology Exam. A 100 percent pass rate indicates the quality of teaching is high, since the exam is a difficult one. Passing the exam verifies that the graduates are prepared to work in the surgical setting and may use the initials CST behind their names.

Certification demonstrates a standard of knowledge and understanding of the principles of surgical technology. It is an important commitment to establishing and maintaining quality assurance in patient care throughout the career of the surgical technologist. A CST prepares and handles instruments used in surgery, has expertise in sterile techniques, and has knowledge regarding how to care for patients in surgery. CSTs must have good organizational and people skills and be able to work in a team setting to care for patients in the surgical area.

The Associate of Science in Surgical Technology program is a two-year program, accredited through the Association of Surgical Technology and The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). In the State of Indiana, individuals are required to be certified in order to work as surgical technologists.

Local students who received their Certification for Surgical Technology are Kyle Christophel and Jannette Miller, of Columbus; Mendy Sue Childress and Jody Marksberry, of North Vernon; Romayne Clarkson,Tammy Vaden, and Samantha Scamacca, of Seymour; and Deborah Lynn Luber, of Westport.