Year of Award
2025
Document Type
Professional Paper
Degree Type
Master of Education (MEd)
Degree Name
Education
Other Degree Name/Area of Focus
Master of Education, Curriculum & Instruction
Department or School/College
Phyllis J. Washington College of Education
Committee Chair
Dr. Matthew Schertz, Ph.D., Graduate Program Coordinator Department of Teaching & Learning
Committee Co-chair
Morgen J Alwell, Ph.D., Committee Member Department of Teaching & Learning
Commitee Members
Jill Davis, M.Ed., Committee Member Department of Health Professions, Missoula College
Keywords
CST, SSI, Infection Rate, State Mandate
Subject Categories
Community Health and Preventive Medicine | Health Services Research | Other Medical Sciences | Other Medicine and Health Sciences | Other Nursing | Other Public Health | Pathology | Patient Safety | Public Health and Community Nursing | Surgery
Abstract
Abstract
Chairperson: Matthew Schertz, Ph.D.
Committee Member: Morgen J Alwell, Ph.D.
Committee Member: Jill Davis, M.Ed.
As a surgical technology instructor, I have witnessed firsthand the impact that certified surgical technologists (CSTs) have on patient safety, particularly in the prevention of surgical site infections (SSIs). This professional paper investigates the relationship between state-mandated certification of surgical technologists and SSI rates, with a focus on how standardized education and credentialing influence clinical outcomes. SSIs remain a significant concern in surgical environments, contributing to increased morbidity, longer hospital stays, and greater healthcare costs. The research presented here examines certification requirements across various U.S. states, comparing infection outcomes in regions that require CST credentials to those that do not. Findings from peer-reviewed studies, national data sets, and interviews with CSTs and non-certified surgical technologists reveal a consistent association between certification and reduced SSI incidence. Certified technologists demonstrate higher adherence to sterile technique, better anticipation of surgical needs, and more consistent performance under pressure. This paper also explores the legislative and institutional barriers to nationwide certification mandates, including workforce shortages and cost concerns. Policy recommendations include the implementation of phased certification requirements and the expansion of access to accredited surgical technology programs, particularly in rural areas. Ultimately, this research supports the assertion that certification improves patient safety, standardizes professional competency, and enhances surgical outcomes. As the healthcare field evolves, universal certification standards for surgical technologists should be recognized as a vital component of high-quality perioperative care.
Recommended Citation
Geiger, Katherine E., "The Impact of State-Mandated Certification of Surgical Technologists on Surgical Site Infection Rates: Evaluating Policy, Practice, and Patient Outcomes" (2025). Graduate Student Theses, Dissertations, & Professional Papers. 12472.
https://scholarworks.umt.edu/etd/12472
Included in
Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons, Health Services Research Commons, Other Medical Sciences Commons, Other Medicine and Health Sciences Commons, Other Nursing Commons, Other Public Health Commons, Pathology Commons, Patient Safety Commons, Public Health and Community Nursing Commons, Surgery Commons
© Copyright 2025 Katherine E. Geiger