Examination Preparation - Preparation Strategies

The National Certifying Examination for Surgical Technologists and Surgical First Assistants covers the knowledge and skills common to competent entry-level Surgical Technologists and Surgical First Assistants in varied settings and geographical locations. NBSTSA committee members designed the examinations to assess the skills that comprise the core body of knowledge for all surgical technologists and surgical first assistants. The CST and CFA examinations examine practical knowledge, and one night of studying will not lead to passing grades.

The following steps can help you prepare:

Read through the Examination Content Area Outline. All the areas listed may appear on the examination. Mark those areas with which you are not familiar or comfortable. Study those areas, or possibly attend a class or seminar. Remember the CFA and CST examination is a broad knowledge based examination that does not test in one specific subject area or surgical specialty.
Read through the reference list (found in the candidate handbook). These references are the primary sources of information used when the examination questions were developed. Use these references to review and refresh your knowledge, particularly in the areas you identified as unfamiliar when you reviewed the Examination Content Area Outline.
Take the Practice Examination, available through the NBSTSA. The cost to take the Practice Examination is $40.00. These examinations are computer based simulations of the actual CFA and CST examinations. Candidates will receive an analysis of individual questions and performance.
Call and schedule an appointment as soon as you are ready to test to increase the chances of getting the time and date you want. Saturday appointments fill quickly.
Know the location of the test center, including parking areas, as well as the actual location of the test room. If necessary, call the test center facility to get directions.
You will need your identification for admission to the test. Prepare them the night before so there are no surprises the day of the examination.