A Certified Surgical Technologist is an Allied Health professional largely unknown to the general population, performing his/her role behind the closed doors of the surgical suite. The CST sets up the surgical case and assists the surgeon by passing sterile instruments, sutures and sponges during surgery, making sure that the operation proceeds smoothly and efficiently. He/she provides highly specialized care for the patient, keeping constant watch that the surgical procedure is conducted under sterile conditions, employing sophisticated surgical technology skills and applying in-depth knowledge of anatomy for each procedure being performed.

A CST must be able to perform under pressure in stressful and emergency situations, possess a strong sense of responsibility, and display considerable patience, manual dexterity and physical stamina.

To become a Certified Surgical Technologist, the candidate must pass a nationally administered examination that tests knowledge of surgical technology, anatomy and physiology, biomedical sciences and microbiology, pharmacology, principles of aseptic technique, and surgical procedures.

The CST embraces the trust of the surgical patient asleep under anesthesia. This is a profession that may be hidden from the public eye, but it is well-respected and appreciated. We are the patient’s advocate and will settle for nothing less than to deliver the highest quality patient care.

The choice to become certified demonstrates pride in the profession and a desire to be recognized for mastery of skills unique to surgical technology, as well as an on-going commitment to quality patient care.

Certification provides evidence to employers, colleagues in the field and the general public that certified surgical technologists and first assistants meet national standards.

Certification is often a condition of employment, a route to higher pay and a source of nationwide recognition.

Exam Fees, Application Forms, and other information is available at http://nbstsa.org/

2011 FIRST TIME EXAMINATION FEES:

RENEWAL OPTIONS

1. Renewal by Examination

CURRENT OR PREVIOUS CERTIFIED SURGICAL FIRST ASSISTANT renewing certification by examination.
Processing Fee	Examination Fee	Total Fee
$60	$439	$499

2. Renewal By Continuing Education Credits

CST’s must earn 60 credits to renew their credential.

CSFA’s must earn 75 credits to renew their credential.

Please remember renewing your credential is a two-step process: 1) submit CE credits to AST and 2) submit the appropriate renewal form to the NBSTSA with the renewal fee. If you have any questions please contact AST (800-637-7433 or www.ast.org) or NBSTSA (800-707-0057).

Note: Late Renewal

Individuals renewing their credential beyond the expiration date (late renewal) may do so by one of the following methods:

• Retake & pass the national certifying examination & pay all appropriate fees.
• May renew by credits and pay all appropriate late fees.

Contact the NBSTSA for the late renewal by credit fee structure. IMPORTANT: Individuals who's certification has lapsed will be issued a new certification number upon satisfying renewal requirements.

Renewal Rationale

• Rapid changes in the operative arena necessitate ongoing and frequent assessment of continuing competence of the surgical technologist and surgical first assistant.
• Similar to standards established in comparable medical/ nursing / and allied health professions the NBSTSA has determined that a four year re-certification cycle is appropriate in the assessment of continuing competence of the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).
• Effective January 1, 2009 all candidates successfully acquiring certification as a surgical technologist or surgical first assistant through the NBSTSA will be required to demonstrate continuing competence and credential renewal via a four year re-certification cycle.
• Continuing competence and credential renewal for the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) may be accomplished via submission of continuing education credits or re-examination.

NBSTSA Renewal Statistics:

Certified Surgical Technologists and Certified Surgical First Assistants

2010 Renewal Statistics

1. CST Renewal Statistics

5,567 possible renewal candidates in 2010. Of these, 4,243 renewed. The national renewal percentage for 2010 is 76%.

2. CSFA Renewal Statistics

359 possible renewal candidates in 2010. Of these, 342 renewed. The national renewal percentage for 2010 is 95%.