What’s on the Surgical Tech Board Certification NBSTSA exam ?

CST Exam Prep: How to study?


 

Let’s be real—when you’re up against a test deadline, practice questions, mock exams, and a study guide with built-in answers are your survival kit.

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Start with a focused qbank. Don’t just do random questions—follow a sequence:

  1. Topic-based questions (instruments, procedures, anatomy)

  2. Timed practice tests that simulate real exam pressure

  3. Weekly mock exams to track progress and build endurance

As you prep, keep a tab open with Surgical Procedures: Your Ultimate Guide for step-by-step breakdowns of surgical flows. Pair that with a deep dive into tools using A Guide to Surgical Instruments to speed up your instrument ID in qbank drills.

 

What’s on the exam?


 

This is the phase where you’re researching or wondering how many questions you’ll face. Great—you’re in strategy mode.

Check the NBSTSA site for:

  • Test content outline

  • Number of questions and scoring

  • Time limits and passing criteria

  • Requirements for eligibility

Match each content area with high-yield practice questions.

  • Aseptic technique

  • Instrumentation

  • Surgical sequencing

  • Anatomy & physiology

This is where a detailed, image-heavy guide like Surgical Instruments and Procedures Notes comes in handy—especially if you’re using a qbank that covers instruments by name but doesn’t show what they look like.

Meanwhile, Passing the CST Exam guidecan anchor your schedule—offering structure, test-day tips, and core topic priorities.

Which cert should I do?

If you’re deciding between NBSTSA vs NCCT vs AAH, or trying to understand the difference between CST, CSFA, or CRCST, you’re not alone.

Your path depends on:

  • Your current role/training (Are you in a CAAHEP program?)

  • Your target job (Surgical tech vs first assist vs sterile processor)

  • Your location/employer preferences (Some only accept NBSTSA)

  • Recertification costs and CEU requirements

If you’re unsure, start with a career-focused overview like Navigating the Path to Success: Insights for Surgical Techs to see how roles diverge—and where they can lead. Then explore pay expectations and growth potential through Guide to Surgical Tech Pay and Programs.

When it comes down to it, the right cert is the one that matches your goals, your timeline, and your local job market.


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