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.
Operating Room Table Attachments and Positioning Equipment: A Surgical Tech's Guide
A guide to common OR table attachments and positioning equipment, including armboards, footboards, traction devices, and specialty tables.
March 3, 2026
Pancreas and Islet Cell Transplant Surgery: An Overview for Surgical Technologists
An overview of pancreas transplantation and islet cell transplant procedures used to treat severe diabetes, and the surgical tech role in each.
March 2, 2026
Domain 2 Intraoperative Patient Care: A CST Exam Content Breakdown
A detailed breakdown of the intraoperative content tested on the CST exam, including counts, instrumentation, and hemostasis.
March 1, 2026
Using a Timer During CST Practice Tests: Building Real Exam Pacing Habits
How to use a timer strategically during CST practice test sessions to build genuine exam-day pacing habits rather than just tracking time.
February 28, 2026
Surgical Tech Preceptor vs. Mentor: Understanding the Difference and Getting the Most From Both
The difference between a formal clinical preceptor and an informal career mentor, and how surgical technologists can benefit from both relationships.
February 27, 2026
Insulin and Glucose Management in Surgical Patients: What CSTs Should Understand
How perioperative blood glucose is managed in surgical patients, including insulin use, and why glucose control matters for surgical outcomes.
February 26, 2026
Knee Joint Anatomy for Arthroscopy and Total Knee Replacement
A focused anatomy review of the knee joint relevant to arthroscopic meniscus and ligament procedures and total knee arthroplasty.
February 25, 2026
Preventing Contamination During Instrument Transport Between Sterile Processing and the OR
Best practices for maintaining sterility during instrument transport between sterile processing departments and the operating room.
February 24, 2026
C-Arm Positioning and Draping for Orthopedic and Spine Procedures
A practical guide to positioning, draping, and coordinating the mobile C-arm fluoroscopy unit during orthopedic and spine surgery.
February 23, 2026
Carotid Endarterectomy: Surgical Overview and the Surgical Tech's Role in Stroke Prevention Surgery
An overview of carotid endarterectomy surgery, including shunting considerations, neuromonitoring, and the surgical tech role.
February 22, 2026
Domain 1 Perioperative Patient Care: A CST Exam Content Breakdown
A detailed breakdown of what the Perioperative Patient Care domain covers on the CST exam and how to study for it effectively.
February 21, 2026
CST Exam Fatigue: How to Stay Sharp Through a Four-Hour Testing Session
Strategies for maintaining mental focus and energy throughout the multi-hour CST exam, including break timing and physical preparation.
February 20, 2026