What is a CST certification?

The path to becoming a CST includes attending an accredited surgical technologist program or completing a military training program in surgical technology. The program will give you the classroom instruction and clinical skills needed to pass the CST certification exam.

The instruction includes anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, and medical terminology. This process generally takes one to two years to complete.

Once you have completed the education process, you can take your CST certification exam. The exam has 175 questions, and you must get at least 102 correct to pass.

There are practice tests, handbooks, and content outlines to help you prepare for the exam. You must renew every two years with a renewal exam and 30 credit hours of continuing education within the past two years.

It is ideal once you have become a CST to join the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST). It can provide you with resources and a network for employment. It can also cut your cost for future certifications and renewals. The exam costs $190 to $290 depending on membership, and renewal is $399 to $499 depending on membership.

CSTs are very similar to surgical first assistance. However, surgical first assistants can do the same as a CST but have also completed an accredited assistant program and passed certification through the NBSTSA.

The surgical first assistant can do things like suction during surgery. Another major difference is the salary. A CST averages around $50,000 annually, while a surgical first assistant averages around $100,000 annually.

As the medical field continues to grow and be more demanding, becoming a CST is worth it. The income, the ever-changing events of the day, and the ability to begin working quickly make it a great opportunity for anyone looking to serve in the medical field.