Surgical Technology: Surgical First Assistant, CERT

College Certificate: (CERT-SFA)

About the Program

The Surgical First Assistant (SFA) College Certificate program is offered as one of four career options for students admitted into the Surgical Technology program. Enrollment in the program is limited due to the number of clinical-learner positions available at each of the clinical settings. A student’s educational experience in the program includes both classroom course work (didactic) and practical (clinical) instruction in a peri-operative environment. Upon successful completion of the SFA Certificate program, students will also receive a Certificate of Completion and will be eligible to sit for the national certification examination.

A Surgical First Assistant works under the direction and supervision of the surgeon and in accordance with hospital policy and appropriate laws and regulations. The SFA provides aid in exposure, homeostasis, and other technical functions that help the surgeon carry out a safe operation with optimal results for the patient. A SFA must be knowledgeable in surgical procedures and the use of surgical instruments on tissues.

College Certificate Goals

• To prepare students with the knowledge and technical skills to effectively perform as a team member of the surgical team unit under the direct supervision of a doctor or registered nurse
• To prepare students to proficiently exercise the duties and responsibilities including peri-operative preparation and postoperative procedures
• To prepare students to successfully pass the National Certification Examination for Surgical First Assistants

College Certificate Outcomes

• Students will be able to demonstrate and apply technical competency as it applies to the duties and technical responsibilities of the position
• Exhibit proficiency in successfully completing the National Certification Examination for Surgical First Assistants with a 80% or better proficiency rate
• Demonstrate critical thinking skills during peri-operative and post-operative procedural management according to the facility policies, procedures and surgeon preferences
• Operate all equipment safely, effectively and efficiently while using appropriate protocols
• Demonstrate self-direction and responsibility for maintaining surgical competency
• Accurately and effectively demonstrate information literacy skills, written, oral and interpersonal communication skills operating as a member of a diverse team of medical professionals
• Incorporate the safety principles, practices and ethical standards and regulations as governed by the profession

Admission Requirements

To be admitted into the Surgical First Assistant program, students must complete the following requirements for admissions prior to acceptance into the program:

• Must complete criminal background check, physical exam (within one year of application submission), MMR, Hepatitis B (HBV) shots (series of three shots), TB, Varicella, Tetanus, Influenza vaccination (seasonal), as well as a 10 Panel Drug/Alcohol Urine Screen
• Fulfill course placement requirements based on the ACCUPLACER® assessment
• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Complete a WCCCD Program Application and submit to the Campus Academic Officer
• Prerequisite courses may be required depending upon ACCUPLACER® assessment
• Complete all prerequisites with a grade of “C” or better. Students must complete all core classes with a “B” or better
• Students must complete the WCCCD Allied Health application
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Submit official transcripts from WCCCD, as well as previous institutions
• Provide valid Government Issued Color Photo ID (Driver’s License/State ID and Passport Photo)
• Must be Certified surgical technologist (CST), or certified nurse-operating room (CNOR), or physician assistant - current certified (PA-C)
• Proof of liability insurance covering health care activities
• Proof of proficiency in Microbiology, Pharmacology, Anatomy and Physiology
• Proof of computer literacy
• Work history from employers
• Submit three letters of recommendation: two professional and one personal
• Proof of immunization against Hepatitis B or waiver
• Interview with the Program Director
• Students are allowed two attempts for successful program completion

All program applications are reviewed by the Surgical Technology Department Admission Committee. Students must submit all paperwork by November 15th for the start of the Spring Semester.

The Surgical First Assistant program offers a College Certificate and may be completed in 45 instructional weeks. The certificate option is designed to prepare students with the skills required for a broad range of surgical specialist positions.

College Certificate Requirements

• Students must complete all core course work with a grade of “B” or better to meet graduation requirements