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.
ENT Microscope and Powered Instruments: Setup for Otologic and Sinus Surgery
A guide to the operating microscope and powered instrumentation used in ear surgery and functional endoscopic sinus surgery.
February 7, 2026
Liver Resection (Hepatectomy): Surgical Overview and Instrumentation for CSTs
An overview of liver resection surgery, including hepatic segmental anatomy, instrumentation, and bleeding control considerations.
February 6, 2026
CST Exam Prep for Career Changers: A Study Plan for Non-Traditional Students
A study plan tailored to career changers pursuing surgical technology certification after working in an unrelated field.
February 5, 2026
Building an Error Log From Missed CST Practice Exam Questions
How to build and use an error log from missed practice exam questions to systematically eliminate your weak areas before the CST exam.
February 4, 2026
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
Osmotic Diuretics in Neurosurgery: How and Why Mannitol Is Used to Reduce Intracranial Pressure
How mannitol works as an osmotic diuretic to reduce intracranial pressure during neurosurgical procedures, and what surgical techs should know.
February 2, 2026
Spinal Column Anatomy for Fusion and Laminectomy Procedures
A focused review of vertebral anatomy relevant to spinal fusion and laminectomy, including the vertebral canal, pedicles, and neural foramina.
February 1, 2026
Immediate Use Steam Sterilization (Flash Sterilization): When AORN Says It Is Appropriate
What immediate use steam sterilization is, why AORN discourages routine use, and the specific circumstances where it remains appropriate.
January 31, 2026
Endoscopy Tower and Camera Equipment: A Surgical Tech's Guide to Setup and Troubleshooting
A guide to the components of an endoscopy tower, including the camera system, insufflator, and light source, and common troubleshooting steps.
January 30, 2026
Pediatric Pyloromyotomy and Inguinal Hernia Repair: Surgical Tech Considerations for Neonates
A procedure overview of two of the most common neonatal general surgery procedures and the specific considerations they require.
January 29, 2026
AST Continuing Education Credit Categories Explained: Category A vs. Category B CEUs
A breakdown of the two continuing education credit categories AST recognizes for CST certification renewal, and how to earn each one.
January 28, 2026
Guessing Strategy for the CST Exam: What to Do When You Are Not Sure
A rational guessing strategy for CST exam questions you truly cannot answer, including whether to change initial answers.
January 27, 2026