SurgicalTechPrep Blog
Study smarter. Pass the CST exam.
Study guides, procedure breakdowns, and exam strategy to help you pass the NBSTSA CST exam on your first attempt.
Closed-Loop Communication in the OR: Why It Matters for Surgical Tech Team Roles
What closed-loop communication is, why it reduces surgical errors, and how surgical technologists use it during the surgical count and case flow.
February 3, 2026
Surgical Tech Interview Questions About Sterile Technique: How to Answer With Confidence
How to prepare for and answer common interview questions about sterile technique and asepsis when applying for a surgical technologist position.
January 26, 2026
Negotiating a Raise as an Experienced Surgical Tech: When and How to Ask
A practical guide for experienced surgical technologists on when to ask for a raise, how to build your case, and how to handle the conversation.
January 18, 2026
TS-C Certification: What the Cardiovascular Surgical Technologist Specialty Credential Involves
An overview of the TS-C specialty certification for surgical technologists, its eligibility requirements, and why techs pursue it.
January 10, 2026
Surgical Tech Scope of Practice by State: Why It Varies and What to Check Before You Relocate
An explanation of how surgical technologist scope of practice and certification requirements differ from state to state.
January 2, 2026
Surgical Tech Preceptorship: What to Expect During Your First Clinical Rotation as a New Grad
A guide to what new surgical technology graduates can expect from a structured preceptorship, and how to make the most of it.
December 25, 2025
Negotiating Your First Surgical Tech Salary: A Practical Guide
How new surgical technologist graduates can approach salary negotiation for their first job offer, with practical scripts and research tips.
December 5, 2025
Surgical Tech Burnout Prevention: Strategies for a Sustainable Career
Practical strategies surgical technologists can use to prevent burnout given the physical and mental demands of OR work.
December 4, 2025
Continuing Education Options for Surgical Techs Beyond CEU Requirements
Continuing education paths surgical technologists can pursue beyond the minimum CEU requirement, from specialty certificates to degree completion.
December 3, 2025
Surgical Tech vs. OR Nurse: Understanding the Different Roles
How the surgical technologist and perioperative nurse roles differ in scope, training, and daily responsibilities in the operating room.
December 2, 2025
Surgical Technologist Job Outlook: Where Demand Is Growing
An overview of job growth trends for surgical technologists and the factors driving continued demand in the field.
December 1, 2025
Surgical Tech Specialties: Which One Is Right for You?
A comparison of common surgical technologist specialty tracks, from orthopedics to cardiovascular, to help you choose a career direction.
November 30, 2025