Arkansas State University - Newport

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News
August 2018

ASU-Newport announces 100% pass rate on Surgical Technology national board exam

Arkansas State University-Newport is thrilled to share 100% of its Surgical Technology students passed their national board examinations. 

Christopher Madden, ASUN's Director of Surgical Technology, said of the 25 students who took the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam, all 25 passed. This type of pass rate is oftentimes a difficult achievement for colleges and programs across the country. 

Surgical Technology students preparing for surgery by putting on gloves.
Surgical Technology students preparing for a simulated surgery.

Under Madden's direction alongside Shannon Riley and Jeremy Wortham, both Advanced Instructors of Surgical Technology, the program has steadily increased its pass rate over the years with an 84% pass rate in 2016-2017. 

"I'm so proud of this class's success," Madden said. "Each student worked extremely hard all year long. They dedicated a huge part of their lives to being successful in this program and it shows. A 100% pass rate would also not be possible without Mrs. Riley and Mr. Wortham. Their dedication to our curriculum and serving our students is vital to making sure every student is amply prepared to take the exam. Our students are now ready to serve in the operating room with the highest capability." 

Riley and students inside one of ASUN's Surgical Technology Labs.
Riley and students inside one of ASUN's Surgical Technology Labs. 

While this proficiency helps ASUN in evaluating its Surgical Technology curriculum, it, more importantly, places graduates in a competitive position to be hired in the field. It is consistently ASUN's goal to prepare students for the workforce and provide highly trained individuals to health industries across the state. Students can feel confident that they will receive the necessary skills at ASUN to be successful in this field. 

Surgical Technologist are an integral part of the operating room. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and other surgical staff in delivering patient care and assuming appropriate responsibilities before, during and after surgery.

For more information about the board that oversees the certification of Surgical Technologists click here. To find out more about ASUN's Surgical Technology Program click here.