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.
Open vs. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Key Differences for the CST Exam
A side-by-side comparison of open and laparoscopic gallbladder removal, covering instrumentation, positioning, and when conversion occurs.
September 4, 2025
Laparoscopic Appendectomy: The Surgical Tech Role Step by Step
A walkthrough of the laparoscopic appendectomy procedure from the sterile field, including instrumentation and count timing surgical techs need to know.
September 3, 2025
NBSTSA Exam Registration Process: Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Applicants
Everything a first-time candidate needs to do to register for the NBSTSA CST exam, from application submission to scheduling test day.
September 2, 2025
Surgical Tech Certification vs. Licensure: What Is the Difference by State
How CST certification differs from state licensure requirements for surgical technologists, and why the distinction matters for where you work.
September 1, 2025
Top Mistakes Candidates Make on CST Exam Day and How to Avoid Them
The most common avoidable errors CST candidates make on test day, from pacing mistakes to logistical problems that cost valuable time.
August 31, 2025
How to Build a CST Study Schedule That Fits Around Clinical Rotations
A practical template for scheduling CST exam study time while still managing full-time clinical rotations and coursework.
August 30, 2025
CST Practice Test Strategy: How to Turn Practice Exams Into Real Score Gains
A method for using CST practice tests to actually improve your score, instead of just tracking how many questions you get right.
August 29, 2025
CST Exam Question Format: How to Read Multiple-Choice Items Correctly
A breakdown of how NBSTSA structures CST exam questions, common wording patterns, and how to avoid misreading a question under time pressure.
August 28, 2025
AST Membership Benefits for CST Candidates: Is Joining Worth It?
What the Association of Surgical Technologists offers student and certified members, from continuing education credits to exam resources.
August 27, 2025
Surgical Tech Certification Renewal: CEU Requirements Explained
How CST certification renewal works, how many continuing education credits you need, and how to track them before your renewal deadline.
August 26, 2025
CST Exam Retake Policy: What Happens If You Don’t Pass
What surgical tech candidates need to know about NBSTSA retake windows, retesting fees, and how to rebuild a study plan after a failed attempt.
August 25, 2025
NBSTSA CST Exam Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Sit for the Exam
A clear rundown of the education and program accreditation requirements you need to meet before you can register for the NBSTSA CST exam.
August 24, 2025