If you’re preparing for the Certified Surgical Technician (CST) exam, this guide provides everything you need to succeed. From eligibility requirements to study tips and free certified surgical technician practice test, you’ll find all the essential details here. You won’t need to search elsewhere or visit multiple sites for information.
What is the Certified Surgical Technician (CST) Exam?
The Certified Surgical Technician (CST) exam is a national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Passing this exam certifies that you are qualified to assist in surgical procedures as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). This certification is widely recognized by hospitals and surgical centers across the U.S.
CST Exam Eligibility
Before you can sit for the CST exam, you must meet specific eligibility criteria:
Education Requirements
- Accredited Program Completion: You must complete a surgical technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
- Military Pathway: Military-trained surgical technologists who have completed a surgical technologist program through the U.S. military are also eligible.
Age Requirement
- No Age Limit: There is no minimum or maximum age requirement for taking the CST exam.
Certification Routes
There are different certification routes to qualify for the CST exam:
- Completion of an Accredited Surgical Technologist Program: Standard route for most applicants.
- Military Training Route: For individuals trained in surgical technology through the military.
CST Exam Structure
The CST exam is a computer-based test consisting of multiple-choice questions that assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the field of surgical technology.
Sections of the CST Exam
| Section | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Perioperative Care | Preoperative procedures, patient care, sterilization techniques |
| Intraoperative Procedures | Surgical instrumentation, operative techniques, safety protocols |
| Postoperative Care | Post-surgery procedures, patient transfer, wound care, sterilization |
| Administrative and Professional | Surgical technologist roles, responsibilities, ethics, communication |
Number of Questions and Time Limit
- Number of Questions: 175 multiple-choice questions.
- Time Allowed: 4 hours.
- Scoring: The exam uses a scaled score, and you must achieve a minimum passing score of 102 to pass the CST exam.
CST Exam Fees
Below is the fee structure for the CST exam:
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard Exam Fee | $190 (members), $290 (non-members) |
| Retake Fee | $290 |
| Recertification Fee (every 4 years) | $399 for re-exam, or completion of 60 CEUs (Continuing Education Units) |
How to Prepare for the CST Exam
Study Materials
- Official NBSTSA Study Guide: The NBSTSA offers a study guide that covers all topics on the exam. You can start with it and then purchase additional material that would help you be fully prepared for the exam.
- Practice Tests: Taking Medical Hero’s CST practice exam is crucial for familiarizing yourself with the test format.
Practice Test Tips
- Simulate Test Conditions: Take practice tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment.
- Analyze Mistakes: Review any incorrect answers to understand your mistakes and improve your weak areas.
Additional Study Resources
- Online Courses: Medical Hero offers surgical technologist review courses specifically designed for the CST exam.
- Flashcards: Use flashcards for quick review of important terms, procedures, and concepts.
What to Expect on Exam Day
Required Documents
- Photo ID: You must bring a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Admission Ticket: Make sure to have your NBSTSA Admission Ticket.
Testing Environment
- Quiet Testing Room: The exam is taken in a quiet, controlled environment at a designated testing center.
- Computer-Based Test: The CST exam is entirely computer-based, with multiple-choice questions that adapt to your performance.
Breaks
- No Scheduled Breaks: The exam does not include scheduled breaks, so manage your time wisely to complete all questions within the 4-hour limit.
Understanding Your CST Exam Results
Once you complete the exam, you’ll receive your results immediately. Here’s how to interpret them:
Scoring System
- Passing Score: The minimum passing score for the CST exam is 102.
- Immediate Results: You will receive your unofficial results immediately upon completing the test.
Retaking the CST Exam
If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can retake the exam. However, there is a waiting period between attempts, and you will need to pay the exam fee again.
Certification Validity and Renewal
Your CST certification is valid for 4 years, after which you will need to recertify by taking the CST exam again or earning 60 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over the 4-year period.
FAQs
What is the passing score for the CST exam?
You must score at least 102 on a scaled score to pass the CST exam.
How often can I take the CST exam?
There is no limit to how many times you can retake the CST exam, but you must wait for a specific period between retakes and pay the exam fee each time.
Can I work as a surgical technologist without passing the CST exam?
While some states do not require certification, most employers prefer or require CST certification for surgical technologists.
How much does the CST exam cost?
The exam costs $190 for NBSTSA members and $290 for non-members. There is an additional fee of $290 for retakes.
What happens if I fail the CST exam?
If you fail the CST exam, you can retake it after a specified waiting period. However, you will need to pay the full exam fee again.
