Revolutionize Your Surgical Tech Career: How the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Can Help!

The Benefits of Certification

As a surgical technologist, you understand the importance of continuing education and the benefits of certification. It’s not only an important step in your professional development, but it also demonstrates your commitment to patient safety. The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) is the only certifying body for surgical technologists. Obtaining certification through the NBSTSA shows employers that you are knowledgeable and have the skills necessary to provide quality patient care.

What is the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting?

Since 1967, the NBSTSA has been providing certification for surgical technologists. The NBSTSA is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting and improving the quality of surgical patient care through the certification of surgical technologists and surgical assistants. The NBSTSA offers two levels of certification: Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA).

Preparing for the Exam

The best way to prepare for the NBSTSA certification exam is to review the content outline and take practice tests. The NBSTSA offers study guides and practice tests to help you prepare for the exam. The study guides cover all the areas that may be included on the exam, such as patient safety, surgical technology principles, and surgical procedures. Taking practice tests can help you gauge your level of preparedness and identify areas where you need more study.

How the NBSTSA Can Help You Advance Your Career

Being certified through the NBSTSA can help you advance your career in a number of ways. It is a signal to employers that you have the knowledge and skills to provide quality patient care. It may also give you an advantage when competing for promotions or job openings. Additionally, the NBSTSA provides continuing education opportunities that can help you stay up to date on the latest advances in your field.

Your Path to Certification

To become certified through the NBSTSA, you must meet the eligibility requirements and successfully pass the certification exam. The eligibility requirements vary depending on your educational background, so be sure to check the NBSTSA website for the most up-to-date information. Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can register for the exam and pay the associated fees.

The Exam Process

The NBSTSA certification exam is a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of surgical technology. It consists of multiple-choice questions and is administered at computer-based testing sites. The exam is divided into two parts: general surgical technology and specialty. You must pass both parts to be eligible for certification.

Renewing Your Certification

Once you have passed the certification exam, you must renew your certification every two years. The NBSTSA provides a number of ways to keep your certification current, including continuing education, professional development, and recertification exams.

Example:The Difference Certification Makes

A great example of the difference certification can make in a surgical tech’s career is the story of Francisco. Francisco was a surgical technologist with several years of experience, but he had never taken the time to obtain certification. When he applied for a position at a prestigious hospital, he was passed over for another candidate who had obtained certification through the NBSTSA. This experience was a wake-up call for Francisco, and he immediately began the process of becoming certified. He was later able to secure a position at the same hospital where he was previously denied because of his certification.

Obtaining certification through the NBSTSA is a great way to advance your surgical tech career. With the help of the NBSTSA, you can demonstrate your commitment to patient safety and show employers that you have the knowledge and skills to provide quality care. Certification is an important step in your professional development, and it can open doors to new opportunities. Take the next step and start the process of becoming certified today!