Top 11 Surgical Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for a surgical assistant in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has achieved a certain level of knowledge and skill in their field. Certification is a way to prove to employers that the individual has completed an approved program of study and is qualified to perform specific tasks related to surgical assistance. It also provides assurance that the person has been trained properly, which can help ensure patient safety. Additionally, certification can be used as a point of differentiation between candidates when applying for jobs, as employers may prefer those with certifications over those without.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Surgical Assistants and explains how they can help to advance a surgical assistant's career.

What are Surgical Assistant Certifications?

Surgical assistant certification is a program designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist in surgical procedures. Certification is usually provided by a professional organization such as the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). To become certified, an individual must meet certain educational, experience, and examination requirements.

The benefits of surgical assistant certification include improved job opportunities, increased earning potential, access to specialized training courses and continuing education programs, enhanced professional reputation and credibility among colleagues, and greater patient trust. Certified surgical assistants are able to provide better care for patients due to their increased knowledge and expertise. They can also help reduce the risk of medical errors by providing a higher level of safety in the operating room. Furthermore, those who are certified can more easily transition between different types of surgical specialties or departments within healthcare organizations.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different surgical assistant certification requirements for each state and specialty before deciding which one is right for you. Different states may have different regulations, so it's important to be aware of any additional requirements. Additionally, some specialties may require additional certifications or training beyond what is necessary for general surgery.

Related: What does a Surgical Assistant do?

Top 11 Surgical Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Surgical Assistants today.

1. Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)

Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is a credential that recognizes the advanced knowledge and skills of surgical first assistants. A CSFA is a healthcare professional who works in the operating room with surgeons, nurses, and other personnel to facilitate surgical procedures. The CSFA assists the surgeon during surgery by providing exposure, hemostasis, suturing, and other technical assistance.

To become certified as a CSFA, one must have graduated from an accredited program for surgical first assisting and have at least two years of experience as a surgical first assistant. After completing these requirements, one may take the Certified Surgical First Assistant Exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology & Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as anatomy and physiology; medical terminology; patient care; instrumentation; pharmacology; infection control; safety standards; and ethical considerations.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether or not you are already certified in another specialty through NBSTSA. If you are not already certified in another specialty through NBSTSA, then the cost to take the exam is $350 USD. If you are already certified in another specialty through NBSTSA, then the cost to take the exam is $250 USD.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your certification as a CSFA from NBSTSA. This certification must be renewed every four years through continuing education credits or retaking the examination.

2. Certified Clinical Surgical Assistant (CCSA)

Certified Clinical Surgical Assistant (CCSA) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the professional development of surgical assistants. The CCSA designation is awarded by the National Board for Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The program is intended to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of surgical assistants in order to provide quality patient care.

The CCSA certification program requires a minimum of two years of clinical experience as a surgical assistant, successful completion of an accredited surgical technology program, or successful completion of an accredited physician assistant program. Applicants must also pass the NBSTSA's Certified Clinical Surgical Assistant Examination.

It typically takes about two years to complete all requirements for the CCSA certification. During this time, applicants must complete an accredited surgical technology or physician assistant program, gain at least two years of clinical experience as a surgical assistant, and pass the NBSTSA's Certified Clinical Surgical Assistant Examination.

To get certified, applicants must submit an application packet that includes proof of education and/or experience in addition to official transcripts from their educational institution(s). Once approved, applicants will be required to pay a fee for the exam and any applicable fees for additional certifications or continuing education courses.

The cost for taking the CCSA exam varies depending on which certifications are being sought after and whether or not additional courses are required. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the exam plus any applicable fees for additional certifications or continuing education courses.

3. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a professional certification given to individuals who have completed an accredited surgical technology program and passed the national certification exam. The CST credential is recognized by employers as evidence of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of surgical technology.

It typically takes two years to complete an accredited surgical technology program. After completion of the program, students must pass the national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control, equipment usage, patient safety and care, and operating room procedures.

To become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), individuals must first complete an accredited surgical technology program. After completing the program, they must then pass the NBSTSA exam to earn their certification.

The cost for taking the NBSTSA exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $300-$400. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

4. Certified Operating Room Technician (CORT)

A Certified Operating Room Technician (CORT) is a healthcare professional who has been certified by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). CORTs are responsible for the preparation and maintenance of the operating room and its equipment, as well as providing assistance to surgeons during surgical procedures.

To become a CORT, you must have completed an accredited surgical technology program and have passed the NBSTSA’s certification exam. The exam consists of two parts: a written component and a practical component. The written component covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, sterilization techniques, patient safety, instrumentation, and more. The practical component requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in a hands-on setting.

The cost of becoming a CORT varies depending on where you take your certification exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 to register for the exam and an additional fee for each part of the exam taken.

In total, it takes about six months to become certified as a CORT. This includes completing an accredited surgical technology program (which typically takes 12-18 months) and studying for the certification exam (which can take up to four months).

5. Certified Medical Assistant in Surgery (CMAS)

A Certified Medical Assistant in Surgery (CMAS) is a specialized medical assistant who has received additional training and certification to work in the surgical setting. CMASs are responsible for providing patient care, preparing the operating room, assisting surgeons during surgery, and caring for patients after surgery.

The certification process typically takes approximately six months to complete. To become certified as a CMAS, you must first complete an accredited medical assisting program. After completing your program, you will need to take a national certification exam from either the National Healthcareer Association or the American Association of Medical Assistants. Once you have passed the exam, you will be eligible to apply for your CMAS certification.

The cost of becoming a CMAS varies depending on where you receive your training. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 for tuition and fees associated with completing an accredited medical assisting program. In addition to this cost, there is also a fee associated with taking the national certification exam which is typically around $150-$200.

Once you have completed all of these steps and received your CMAS certification, you will be qualified to work as a Certified Medical Assistant in Surgery in any healthcare setting that requires such credentials.

6. Certified Endoscopy Technician (CET)

Certified Endoscopy Technician (CET) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE). The certification is designed to recognize and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of endoscopy technicians.

To become certified as an endoscopy technician, you must complete an approved training program and pass a written exam. Training programs vary in length depending on the institution offering them; however, most are between 6-12 months long. Upon completion of the training program and passing the written exam, you will receive your CET designation.

The cost of the training program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000 - $4,000 for a 6-12 month program. Additionally, there is a fee to take the written exam which is currently set at $200.

Overall, becoming certified as an endoscopy technician requires completing an approved training program and passing a written exam. The cost of such programs can range from $2,000 - $4,000 depending on the institution offering it; additionally there is a fee to take the written exam which is currently set at $200.

7. Registered Surgical Technologist (RST)

A Registered Surgical Technologist (RST) is a professional healthcare worker who specializes in assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing and setting up instruments, passing instruments to the surgeon, and helping to maintain a sterile environment. RSTs are also trained to recognize any potential problems that may arise during surgery, such as bleeding or infection.

To become an RST, you must complete an accredited program in surgical technology from an accredited college or university. These programs typically take two years to complete and include both classroom instruction and clinical experience. After completing the program, you must then pass a national certification exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology & Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

The cost of becoming an RST varies depending on the school you attend and whether or not you receive financial aid. Generally speaking, tuition for a two-year program can range from $5,000-$20,000. Additionally, there is a fee associated with taking the NBSTSA certification exam which currently stands at $250.

8. Advanced Surgical First Assistant Certification (ASFAC)

Advanced Surgical First Assistant Certification (ASFAC) is a certification program offered by the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST). It is designed for individuals who have completed an accredited surgical technologist program and are currently practicing as a first assistant in the operating room. The certification requires that candidates complete a comprehensive written exam, which covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, instrumentation and sterilization techniques, patient positioning and safety protocols.

The ASFAC certification process typically takes approximately four months to complete. Candidates must first register with the AST and submit their application materials, including transcripts from their surgical technologist program. After the application is approved, candidates will be eligible to take the written exam. Once they pass the exam, they will receive their official certificate from the AST.

The cost of obtaining ASFAC certification varies depending on the state in which you live. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $200-$500. This cost includes registration fees for both the AST and your state’s licensing board, as well as any additional materials needed for studying for the exam.

In order to maintain your ASFAC certification status, you must renew your license every two years by completing continuing education courses or attending professional development seminars related to surgical technology.

9. Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA)

A Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA) is a professional who works in the field of ophthalmology and assists an ophthalmologist with patient care. COAs are responsible for performing tasks such as measuring vision, administering eye drops, taking photographs of the eyes, and assisting with minor surgical procedures. They also provide patient education about eye health and safety.

In order to become a COA, you must complete a formal education program that is accredited by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). This program typically takes six to nine months to complete and includes courses in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, optics, ocular diseases, and patient care. After completing the program, you must pass an exam administered by JCAHPO in order to earn your certification.

The cost of becoming a COA varies depending on the school or program you choose to attend. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $2,000-$4,000. In addition to tuition fees, there may be additional costs associated with textbooks and materials needed for the program.

Once certified as a COA, you can apply for jobs in hospitals or medical offices that specialize in ophthalmology. You will be responsible for providing quality patient care under the supervision of an ophthalmologist or optometrist.

10. American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Certification for Ophthalmic Surgery Assistants (ASORN-OSA)

The American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Certification for Ophthalmic Surgery Assistants (ASORN-OSA) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who assist ophthalmologists in performing surgical procedures. The certification is offered through the American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses (ASORN), which is an organization dedicated to promoting excellence in ophthalmic nursing.

In order to be eligible for ASORN-OSA certification, applicants must have a current license as a registered nurse and at least two years of experience working in an ophthalmology setting. Applicants must also complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education related to ophthalmology and pass an exam administered by ASORN. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient care, and surgical procedures.

It typically takes four to six weeks to receive the results from the ASORN-OSA exam. Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by completing 40 hours of continuing education every two years.

The cost for the ASORN-OSA exam is $350 USD and includes access to study materials and practice exams.

11. National Commission for Certifying Agencies Accreditation for Surgical Assistants (NCCA-SA).

The National Commission for Certifying Agencies Accreditation for Surgical Assistants (NCCA-SA) is an accreditation program that provides recognition to surgical assistant programs and certifying organizations. It is designed to ensure quality standards in the education, training, and certification of surgical assistants. The NCCA-SA accreditation process involves a comprehensive review of the program's or organization's curriculum, faculty, facilities, resources, and other criteria.

The accreditation process typically takes approximately 6-9 months from the time of submission to the NCCA-SA. To begin the process, applicants must complete an online application and submit it along with supporting documents such as syllabi, course descriptions, faculty credentials, student evaluations, etc. The NCCA-SA will then review the application and supporting documents to determine if the program meets its standards for accreditation.

The cost of applying for NCCA-SA accreditation varies depending on the size of the program or organization being accredited. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on the scope of work required by NCCA-SA staff. Once accepted into the program and accredited by NCCA-SA, there are annual fees associated with maintaining accreditation status.

Overall, obtaining NCCA-SA accreditation is a lengthy but important process that ensures quality standards in surgical assistant programs and certifying organizations. It is an important step in ensuring that students receive a high quality education and training that prepares them for their future careers as surgical assistants.

Do You Really Need a Surgical Assistant Certificate?

Whether or not you need a surgical assistant certificate depends on your goals and aspirations. If you are looking to become a certified surgical assistant, then yes, you do need to obtain a certificate in order to practice. However, if you are simply looking for an entry-level job in the medical field, then it may not be necessary.

In order to become a certified surgical assistant, you will need to complete an accredited program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. You will also have to pass an exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). After completing this certification process, you will be able to practice as a surgical assistant under the supervision of a surgeon.

Having a certificate in surgical assisting is beneficial because it demonstrates your knowledge and commitment to the profession. It can also help open doors for new opportunities such as jobs in hospitals or specialty clinics. Additionally, having this certification may give you access to higher salaries than those without the certification.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue a certificate in surgical assisting depends on your personal goals and career aspirations. If becoming certified is important for your success in the medical field, then obtaining the certificate is recommended. Otherwise, it may not be necessary depending on what type of job you are seeking.

Related: Surgical Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Surgical Assistant Certifications

Q1. What is a Surgical Assistant Certification?

A1. A Surgical Assistant Certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual's qualifications and expertise in surgical assisting. It typically requires completion of an accredited educational program, passing a certification exam, and maintaining ongoing continuing education requirements.

Q2. How long does it take to become certified as a Surgical Assistant?

A2. The length of time required to become certified as a Surgical Assistant will vary depending on the type of certification you are pursuing, the amount of prior medical experience you have, and your own study habits and dedication to preparing for the examination. Generally speaking, most people can expect to spend at least six months to one year completing the necessary courses and studying for their certification exam.

Q3. What types of certifications are available for Surgical Assistants?

A3. There are several different types of certifications available for Surgical Assistants, including Certified Surgical First Assist (CSFA), Certified Ophthalmic Assistant (COA), and Certified Physician's Assistant (CPA). Each type of certification has its own set of requirements and examinations that must be completed before obtaining the credential.

Q4. Is there any recertification requirement for Surgical Assistants?

A4. Yes, most certifications require periodic recertification in order to maintain an active status with the organization or board that issued it. Recertification generally involves completing continuing education courses or exams related to surgical assisting topics within a certain time frame in order to stay up-to-date on best practices and current developments within the field.

Q5. Are there any financial assistance programs available for those seeking Surgical Assistant Certifications?

A5. Yes, some organizations may offer scholarships or other forms of financial aid for individuals who wish to pursue Surgical Assistant Certifications or other medical credentials such as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). Be sure to contact your local hospital or university’s financial aid office to see what options may be available in your area!