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.
Laparotomy Tray Instrument Checklist: What Belongs on a Major Abdominal Set
A complete checklist of instruments typically found on a laparotomy tray for major open abdominal surgery.
December 21, 2025
Bariatric Surgery: The Surgical Tech's Role in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
A walkthrough of the surgical technologist role during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, from instrumentation to leak testing.
December 20, 2025
Mastering Clinical Scenario Questions on the CST Exam: A Decision-Making Framework
Learn a repeatable framework for working through scenario-based CST exam questions that ask you to choose the best next action.
December 19, 2025
Simulating Real Testing Conditions at Home Before Your CST Exam
How to recreate realistic CST exam testing conditions during home practice sessions to reduce surprises on actual test day.
December 18, 2025
CST Exam Retake Study Plan: How to Come Back Stronger
A focused, domain-driven study plan for candidates preparing for a CST exam retake after not passing on their first attempt.
December 17, 2025
What to Bring to the CST Exam Testing Center: A Complete Packing List
A checklist of everything you need to bring, and everything you should leave behind, when heading to your CST exam appointment.
December 16, 2025
The Last Week Before Your CST Exam: A Complete Checklist
A day-by-day checklist for the final week before the CST exam, covering both content review and logistical preparation.
December 15, 2025
Study Group Strategies for CST Exam Prep That Actually Work
How to structure a surgical technology study group so sessions build real exam readiness instead of turning into unfocused review.
December 14, 2025
Creating Effective Flashcards for CST Exam Prep
How to design flashcards that actually improve retention for CST exam study, rather than passive review cards that create false confidence.
December 13, 2025
Memorization Techniques for Instrument Identification on the CST Exam
Practical memorization strategies for mastering surgical instrument identification questions on the CST exam.
December 12, 2025
Studying Anatomy Effectively for the CST Exam: A Focused Approach
How to study anatomy efficiently for the CST exam by focusing on procedure-relevant structures rather than exhaustive memorization.
December 11, 2025
Using Practice Tests Effectively: A Framework for CST Exam Prep
How to structure your use of CST practice tests throughout your study timeline for maximum score improvement.
December 10, 2025