CST - Certified Surgical Technologist

The Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Becoming a surgical tech is a great career choice for those who seek a skilled medical career without the extensive education and training required for nurses and surgeons.

Surgical technologists prepare the operating room, including the sterile field, surgical equipment, supplies, and solutions. Surgical technologists pass instruments, fluids, and supplies to the surgeon during surgery and prepare and manage surgical equipment.

Surgical technologists simultaneously manage the sterile field and specimens. Surgical technologists perform a count of sponges and supplies to prevent objects being left inside a human body. Surgical technologists are certified following successful completion of a CAAHEP-accredited program or other programmatically-accredited surgical technology program and the national Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) examination administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). 

Eligibility requirements

• High school graduate

• Earn an associate degree

• Get hands-on professional experience

• Prepare for certification exams

• Apply for jobs

What are the costs?

Becoming certified by the NBSTSA: The total cost for application and examination for members is $190 for Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) members. For non-members, the cost is $290. Re-take fee is $190 for AST members and $290 for non-members.

There are two main ways to become certified as a surgical technologist

1. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) provides those who pass an examination with the credential of Certified Surgical Technologist (CST).

2. Certification may also be obtained through the National Center for Competency Testing. This organization offers credentialing for a number of allied health professions, including medical assistants, phlebotomy technicians, and of course—surgical techs.

Certification renewal is a two-step process. Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) must earn 30 CE credits before their two-year cycle expires. CSTs that are completing their four -year cycle must earn 60 CE credits.

1. Earn and Submit Continuing Education (CE) Credits to AST

2. Submit Certification Renewal Application to the NBSTSA

Renewal Fees

• Renewing by exam: $299 for AST members and $399 for non-members

• Renewing by Continuing Education (CE): $25

• Renewing 1-90 after credential expired: $75 late fee

The NBSTSA offers resources for exam candidates, including:

• Content Outline

• Study Evaluation

• Reference Textbook List

• Practice Exam Cost: $40

The NBSTA also offers the Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).

Other related certifications include:

• Perioperative Blood Management Technologist (PBMT): For allied health professionals working as Autotransfusionist or Platelet Gel/Stem Cell device operators in the surgical setting.