NBSTSA Exam Information

Who is the NBSTSA?

The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is a certifying agency for surgical technologists (ST) and surgical first assistants (SFA) in the United States. The NBSTSA provides certification exams to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals in these roles and to ensure they meet professional standards.

Step 1: Eligibility and Application

Before you can take a NBSTSA exam, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You must have completed an accredited surgical technologist or surgical first assistant program, or have work experience in these roles. You will need to submit an application along with supporting documentation and the exam fee. The application can be completed online at the NBSTSA's official website (https://www.nbstsa.org/).

Step 2: Scheduling the Exam

Once your application has been approved, you can schedule your exam. Exams are administered by PSI, a professional testing company with locations across the United States. You can schedule your exam online through the PSI website or by calling PSI's customer service line. You will need to select a date, time, and location for your exam.

Step 3: Taking the Exam

The exam is taken at a PSI testing center. You will need to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID with you to the testing center. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers a variety of topics related to surgical technology and surgical assisting. You will receive your results immediately after completing the exam.

Location Information

PSI has testing centers in numerous locations across the United States. You can find a testing center near you by using the "Find a Test Center" tool on the PSI website (https://www.psionline.com/).

National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Exams

Test Name

Number of Questions

Topics Covered

Test Length

NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)

The NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant certification test is a rigorous exam for aspiring surgical first assistants. Administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), the test assesses candidates' knowledge and skills in areas such as pre-operative preparation, intra-operative procedures, post-operative procedures, and emergency situations. This certification is nationally recognized and signifies that the individual has met the high standards set by NBSTSA in providing surgical care. It is a critical step towards becoming a proficient and trusted surgical first assistant.

100 - Multiple Choice

Perioperative Care
Preoperative Preparation
Intraoperative Procedures
Postoperative Procedures
Additional Duties
Administrative and Personnel
Equipment, Sterilization, and Maintenance
Advanced Science
Advanced Anatomy and Physiology:
Advanced Principles of Microbiology:
Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia:

210 Minutes

NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

The NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist certification test is a comprehensive examination designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals aspiring to work as surgical technologists. This test covers a range of topics, including preoperative preparation, surgical procedures, postoperative procedures, administrative and personnel skills, and equipment sterilization and maintenance. Successful completion of this test demonstrates a candidate's competence in the field of surgical technology, and is often required by employers in the healthcare industry. The test is administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).