Surgical technologists are members of the operating room team, working alongside surgeons and nurses to ensure a safe and sterile environment for medical procedures. They prepare the operating room, manage surgical instruments, and assist the surgical team throughout an operation. For those in Colorado with an interest in this hands-on healthcare career, the path involves specific educational, training, and legal steps. This guide outlines the journey to becoming a surgical technologist in the Centennial State, from initial prerequisites to state-required registration and career prospects.
Meet the Basic Educational Requirements
The first step toward a career as a surgical technologist is securing a foundational education. Before you can be considered for any specialized training program, you must possess a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) equivalent. This prerequisite ensures that all applicants have a baseline level of education necessary to handle the rigors of a demanding healthcare curriculum.
This requirement is non-negotiable for entry into accredited surgical technology programs. It serves as the gateway to the more advanced scientific and medical coursework that follows. This qualification is necessary for enrollment in a certified training program, which is a required step for future employment and state registration.
Find an Accredited Surgical Technology Program
With a high school diploma or GED in hand, the next stage is to find a suitable training program. Accreditation is a significant indicator of quality in surgical technology. The primary accrediting body for these programs is the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and employers in Colorado highly value graduates from these recognized institutions. Enrolling in a CAAHEP-accredited program ensures the curriculum meets national standards for the profession.
Aspiring technologists in Colorado can choose from several program types, including certificates, diplomas, or an Associate of Applied Science degree. Certificate and diploma programs are generally shorter, often taking between nine and 12 months to complete. An associate degree program typically requires two years of study, as it includes general education courses alongside the core surgical technology curriculum. Colorado is home to several accredited institutions, such as the Community College of Denver and Front Range Community College.
Choosing the right program depends on individual career goals and timelines. A two-year associate degree may provide a broader educational base, potentially aiding future career advancement. A certificate or diploma offers a faster route into the workforce.
Complete Your Training and Clinical Hours
Once enrolled in a surgical technology program, students undertake a comprehensive curriculum designed to build a strong foundation of knowledge. Coursework covers subjects such as anatomy and physiology, microbiology, medical terminology, and pharmacology. Students learn the specifics of surgical procedures, patient care techniques, and how to maintain a sterile field.
A substantial component of any accredited program is the clinical practicum. This hands-on training places students directly in a hospital or ambulatory surgical center, where they work under the supervision of experienced personnel. This real-world experience is where theoretical knowledge is put into practice as students learn to prepare for surgeries, anticipate the needs of the surgeon, and manage surgical instruments. The clinical hours are tracked and are a requirement for graduation, ensuring graduates are competent and confident in a live surgical setting.
Obtain Professional Certification
After graduating from an accredited program, the next step is to obtain a professional certification. Securing a national certification is the industry standard that most employers look for and is a prerequisite for state registration. This credential validates your knowledge and skills, demonstrating to employers that you have met national standards for competency.
The primary and most widely recognized credential is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), awarded by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). To be eligible for the CST exam, candidates must have graduated from a CAAHEP-accredited surgical technology program. The exam itself consists of 150 scored questions covering preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative procedures.
Another option is the Tech in Surgery – Certified (TS-C) credential, offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). Eligibility for this exam can be met by graduating from an accredited program or through sufficient on-the-job experience. Though both certifications are respected, the CST is often the preferred credential in the job market.
Register with the State of Colorado
A distinct and legally required step for practicing in Colorado is registering with the state. Colorado is one of a handful of states that has specific regulations governing the practice of surgical technology, as mandated by the Surgical Technologist and Surgical Assistant Registration law. This means that simply graduating and earning a national certification is not enough to legally work in the state; you must also be on the state registry.
The registration process is managed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). To be eligible for registration, an individual must provide proof of having graduated from a CAAHEP-accredited program or another program approved by the department. Applicants must also demonstrate they have successfully passed a national certification exam, such as the CST from the NBSTSA or the TS-C from the NCCT.
This registration is not a one-time event and must be maintained. It ensures that all practicing surgical technologists in the state have met the same baseline educational and credentialing standards, promoting patient safety and professional accountability.
Surgical Technologist Job Outlook in Colorado
The demand for qualified surgical technologists in Colorado is projected to remain steady, driven by the healthcare needs of a growing population and advances in medical procedures. Employment opportunities are found in hospitals, outpatient surgery centers, and specialty clinics across the state.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of surgical technology is expected to grow in the coming years. In Colorado, surgical technologists can expect to earn a competitive salary. While exact wages vary based on location within the state, experience level, and the type of healthcare facility, the earning potential is strong for a career accessible with an associate’s degree or certificate.