How to Pass a Surgical Technology Test

A surgical technologist at work during surgery.

Surgical technologists assist in myriad ways in surgical procedures, before,
during and after operations. Their duties consist of preparing patients, setting up the OR, assisting during the surgery by passing instruments to the surgeon, sterilizing equipment and restocking instruments after surgical procedures. They are under the supervision of registered nurses and surgeons and are a vital part of the operating room team. Exams for becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) are taken through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) which is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The NBSTSA examinations test practical and theoretical knowledge in the area of surgical technology.

Instructions

1. Apply to NBSTSA using their downloadable "CST examination application form." Your eligibility will be determined from the application information. Required documentation may include previous employers, references, documented school courses and experience. Include a non-refundable processing fee of $190 for Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) members or $290 for non-members.

2. Contact the testing agency online or by phone after receiving your approval letter and candidate number. Reserve your date, time and location. The testing agency requires your candidate identification number.

3. Prepare in advance for your exam by using the downloadable "CST Examination Content Outline." The test outline covers perioperative patient care, basic science and anatomy, practical and routine surgical technology tasks. The exam outline is thorough in covering every aspect of surgical technology duties.

4. Report on time to the testing center. Check in at the assessment desk with all of the required documentation and identification.

5. Take the written or computer--based exam. The CST exam tests knowledge of routine tasks that surgical technologists perform. Students need 119 out of 200 correct answers for a passing score. Many test centers issue your score results soon after you have finished the CST examination.

Tips & Warnings

• Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist is important for preferred job placement and a competitive salary.

• All examination fees will be forfeited for anyone checking in late at the test center.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Surgical Technologist
• National Board of Surgical Technologists and Surgical Assisting: Philosophy

Resources

• National Board of Surgical Technologists and Surgical Assisting: Certifying Examination Content
• National Board of Surgical Technologists and Surgical Assisting: CST Examination Application
• Association of Surgical Technologists