Top 10 Surgical Technologist Certifications

Certifications for a surgical technologist are important in the job market because they demonstrate a professional level of knowledge and skills. Certification shows employers that the applicant has met the standards of practice for their profession and has the necessary qualifications to perform their job duties. This can provide assurance to employers that they are hiring someone who is qualified and knowledgeable in their field. In addition, certifications often give applicants an edge when applying for jobs or promotions, since it is evidence of their dedication to the profession.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Surgical Technologists and explain how they can help to enhance a surgical technologist's career.

What are Surgical Technologist Certifications?

Surgical technologist certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in providing patient care during surgical procedures. It is typically awarded by professional organizations, such as the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). Certification demonstrates a level of mastery in the field and is often required for employment in many medical settings.

Certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when seeking employment in the medical field, and also demonstrate their commitment to providing quality care to patients. Additionally, it can demonstrate knowledge and skills that are necessary for success in the profession. Certification may also lead to higher salaries, more job opportunities, and greater recognition from employers. Finally, certification can provide a sense of accomplishment for those who have worked hard to achieve it.

Pro Tip: Surgical technologist certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skill in the field. Make sure you research all of the requirements for certification in your state and stay up-to-date on any changes or updates to the requirements. Additionally, consider taking continuing education courses to ensure that you are staying current with best practices and standards in the industry.

Related: What does a Surgical Technologist do?

Top 10 Surgical Technologist Certifications

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

1. Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

A Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a professional healthcare provider who assists in the care of patients before, during and after surgical procedures. They are responsible for preparing the operating room, sterilizing instruments, setting up equipment, passing instruments to the surgeon, and helping maintain a sterile environment. CSTs also help to ensure that the patient is safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.

To become a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), you must complete an accredited surgical technology program and pass the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) exam. The length of time it takes to become certified depends on your educational background; most programs can be completed within two years or less.

In order to take the NBSTSA exam, you must first apply for certification through their website. The application fee is $200 plus an additional $125 for each specialty area you wish to pursue. Once your application has been accepted, you will receive a registration packet with instructions on how to register for the exam. The cost of taking the NBSTSA exam is $300 for one specialty area or $400 for multiple areas.

Once you have passed the NBSTSA exam, you will receive your official CST certification from the NBSTSA and can begin working as a Certified Surgical Technologist in any state that recognizes this certification.

2. Certified First Assistant (CFSA)

Certified First Assistant (CFSA) is a certification program that recognizes the expertise of a first assistant in the operating room. The CFSA credential is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the area of surgical assisting.

In order to become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive written examination. To be eligible for the CFSA exam, applicants must have completed an accredited surgical assistant program or have at least two years of full-time experience as a first assistant in the operating room.

The CFSA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost of taking the exam is $500 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their certification within two weeks.

The CFSA credential is valid for five years and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the certification exam every five years.

3. Certified Operating Room Technician (CORT)

Certified Operating Room Technician (CORT) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who work in an operating room setting. CORT is offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The certification requires applicants to demonstrate competency in areas such as patient care, instrumentation, and sterile technique.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CORT certification process. To get certified, applicants must first complete an accredited surgical technology program or have at least two years of experience working in an operating room setting. After completing these requirements, they will need to pass a written exam administered by NBSTSA.

The cost for the CORT certification varies depending on the applicant's circumstances. The examination fee alone is $200 for those who are already certified as a surgical technologist or surgical assistant, or $250 for those who are not yet certified. Additional fees may apply for application processing and other related costs.

4. Certified Instrumentation Specialist (CIS)

Certified Instrumentation Specialist (CIS) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of instrumentation, control and automation.

The CIS program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as process control systems, instrumentation, and automation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CIS program, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements which include having at least five years of experience in the field of instrumentation, control or automation. Candidates must also be employed in a related field or have completed an approved course in instrumentation, control or automation.

The cost of the CIS certification exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees and travel costs.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by completing continuing education activities every three years. These activities can include attending conferences, seminars or workshops related to instrumentation, control or automation.

5. Advanced Surgical Technologist (AST)

Advanced Surgical Technologist (AST) is a specialized field of surgical technology. ASTs are highly trained professionals who assist surgeons in the operating room, providing expertise in patient care, instrumentation and equipment setup, and surgical procedure support. ASTs are responsible for anticipating the needs of the surgeon during surgery and ensuring that all necessary instruments and supplies are available.

In order to become an Advanced Surgical Technologist, individuals must have a minimum of two years experience as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST). They must then complete an accredited AST program which typically takes between 18-24 months to complete. After completing the program, individuals must pass an exam administered by either the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting or the National Center for Competency Testing to earn their certification as an Advanced Surgical Technologist.

The cost of becoming an Advanced Surgical Technologist varies depending on the program chosen. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $3,000 - $20,000 depending on factors such as location and duration of study. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with certification exams or other related expenses.

6. Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Technologist (COST)

Certified Ophthalmic Surgical Technologist (COST) is a certification program offered by the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in ophthalmic surgical technology. The COST certification requires applicants to demonstrate their proficiency in all aspects of ophthalmic surgery, including patient assessment, preoperative care, intraoperative care, postoperative care, instrumentation and equipment handling, and emergency management.

To become certified as a COST, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Have a current certification from the JCAHPO or its equivalent
• Pass an exam administered by the JCAHPO
• Complete an accredited ophthalmic surgical technologist educational program
• Have at least one year of experience as an ophthalmic surgical technologist
• Meet continuing education requirements every three years to maintain certification.

The exam for COST certification is offered twice per year and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam is $400 USD. Once certified, individuals must complete 24 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their certification status.

7. Certified Central Sterile Processing Technician (CCSPT)

Certified Central Sterile Processing Technician (CCSPT) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills to work in the field of sterile processing. This certification is offered by the International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management (IAHCSMM).

To become certified, an individual must pass a written examination that covers topics such as sterilization techniques, infection control, decontamination processes, and medical device reprocessing. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

In order to take the exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience in healthcare or sterile processing, or completing an approved educational program. Applicants must also submit proof of their education or experience when they apply for the exam.

The cost to take the CCSPT exam varies depending on whether you are a member of IAHCSMM or not. For non-members, the fee is $250 USD; for members, it is $200 USD.

8. Certified Perioperative Nurse (CPN)

A Certified Perioperative Nurse (CPN) is a registered nurse who has specialized in the care of patients undergoing surgical procedures. The CPN certification is an advanced practice credential that recognizes a nurse’s expertise and knowledge in perioperative nursing. It is designed to demonstrate a nurse’s commitment to providing safe, quality patient care during the perioperative period.

To get certified as a CPN, you must have at least two years of experience as an RN in the operating room, have completed 30 hours of continuing education related to perioperative nursing, and pass an examination administered by the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI). The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the exam is $400 for members of the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) or $450 for non-members. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with study materials or review courses. Once you have passed the exam, your certification will be valid for five years after which you will need to renew it.

9. National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Certification Exam (NBSTSA-CST/CSFA)

The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Certification Exam (NBSTSA-CST/CSFA) is a comprehensive exam that tests the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who are seeking certification as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) or Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). The exam is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, surgical procedures, medical terminology, infection control, instrumentation, equipment operation, patient safety, pharmacology, and more. The practical portion consists of hands-on tasks such as setting up an operating room for surgery, passing instruments to the surgeon during a procedure, maintaining sterile technique throughout the procedure, and assisting with wound closure.

The NBSTSA-CST/CSFA exam typically takes about four hours to complete. Candidates must pass both portions of the exam in order to receive certification. To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have completed an accredited surgical technology or surgical first assistant program or have at least five years of full-time experience in the field within the past 10 years.

The cost for taking the NBSTSA-CST/CSFA exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 for both portions of the exam. Some states may also require additional fees for licensure or registration purposes.

10. American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Certification Exam for Ophthalmic Surgery Technologists (ASORN-OST).

The American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses Certification Exam for Ophthalmic Surgery Technologists (ASORN-OST) is a certification exam designed to measure the knowledge and skills of ophthalmic surgery technologists. The exam is administered by the American Society of Ophthalmic Registered Nurses (ASORN).

The ASORN-OST exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover topics such as patient assessment, surgical instrumentation, patient safety, infection control, and postoperative care. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible to take the ASORN-OST exam, applicants must have completed an accredited ophthalmology technology program and have at least one year of clinical experience in ophthalmology or related fields. Applicants must also submit proof of current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

The cost for taking the ASORN-OST exam is $325 for members of ASORN and $400 for non-members. The fee includes registration, study materials, and access to online practice exams. After passing the exam, there is an annual maintenance fee of $50 for members and $75 for non-members.

Once certified, individuals are required to complete continuing education credits every two years in order to maintain their certification status.

Do You Really Need a Surgical Technologist Certificate?

Yes, if you want to become a surgical technologist, you do need to obtain a certificate. A certificate in surgical technology is required to become a certified surgical technician. The certificate program provides the necessary training and education needed to perform the duties of a certified surgical technician, such as preparing and assisting in surgery, sterilizing equipment, setting up instruments and supplies for use during operations, and maintaining patient safety during procedures.

The certification program also helps individuals develop their knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, infection control practices, pharmacology, and ethics related to healthcare. It also provides an understanding of the legal aspects of healthcare such as HIPAA regulations. Additionally it teaches students how to properly interact with patients and physicians during surgeries as well as how to use various types of medical equipment.

Certified technicians must renew their certification every two years in order to remain eligible for employment in their field. Renewal requires completion of continuing education credits that are relevant to the field of surgical technology. This ensures that technicians maintain the highest level of competency when performing their duties in the operating room.

Overall obtaining a Surgical Technologist Certificate is essential if you plan on becoming a certified Surgical Technician. It not only gives you the necessary skills and knowledge needed for this profession but also keeps your certification current so that you can continue working in this field without interruption.

Related: Surgical Technologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Surgical Technologist Certifications

1. How do I become a certified surgical technologist?

Answer: To become a certified surgical technologist, you must first complete an accredited program in surgical technology and pass the national exam administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

2. What kinds of certifications are available for surgical technologists?

Answer: The NBSTSA offers two types of certifications: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), and Certified First Assistant (CFSA). The CST certification is required to work as an entry-level surgical technologist, while the CFSA certification is for those who wish to advance their career into a more specialized role.

3. What is the difference between the CST and CFSA certifications?

Answer: The CST certification requires completion of an accredited program in surgical technology and passing the national exam administered by the NBSTSA. The CFSA certification requires additional education and experience beyond that required for CST certification, including completion of at least one year of clinical practice as a first assistant under direct supervision from a surgeon or physician assistant.

4. How often do I need to renew my certification?

Answer: Both the CST and CFSA certifications must be renewed every four years with proof of continuing education credits or re-examination.

5. Are there any online programs available for obtaining a surgical technologist certification?

Answer: While there are some online programs available, most accredited programs require attendance at on-site classes or laboratories in order to meet requirements for graduation and/or national board examinations.