Certified Surgical Technologist (NBSTSA CST) Prep

Master the essential perioperative competencies and medical sciences required to excel on the NBSTSA Certified Surgical Technologist examination.

This comprehensive exam preparation course is precisely mapped to the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) CST blueprint. Learners will review surgical sciences, infection control protocols, perioperative patient care, and specialty surgical procedures. By bridging theoretical principles with intraoperative practice, this curriculum fully equips candidates to achieve certification and maintain clinical excellence. Every lesson includes tutor notes, a video, a hands-on lab, exercises and a 12-question quiz you must pass at 80%, followed by a pooled final exam and free and paid practice tests. Erudex is independent and not affiliated with NBSTSA.

120h Certificate available

NBSTSA CSTSurgical TechnologyPerioperative CareExam Preparation

Curriculum

One complete track with its own final exam and certificate.

8 modules aligned to the official exam/course outline, with a pooled final exam (80% to pass).

Review the core anatomical structures, physiological systems, and common pathological cond

1.1 Integumentary, Musculoskeletal, and Nervous System Structures Lab75 min
1.2 Cardiovascular, Lymphatic, and Respiratory System Anatomy Lab75 min
1.3 Digestive, Genitourinary, and Endocrine System Dynamics Lab75 min
1.4 Surgical Pathology and Cellular Alterations Requiring Intervention Lab75 min
1.5 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Imbalances in the Surgical Patient Lab75 min

You will learn to

Demonstrate comprehensive mastery of surgical anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and pharmacology principles.
Execute rigorous aseptic techniques, sterile processing methods, and contamination prevention protocols.
Manage all phases of perioperative care including preoperative setup, intraoperative assistance, and postoperative turnover.
Identify, assemble, and pass specialized surgical instrumentation across major surgical subspecialties.
Formulate immediate, effective responses to intraoperative emergencies, patient compromises, and equipment malfunctions.

Prerequisites

• Graduation from or current enrollment in a CAAHEP- or ABHES-accredited Surgical Technology program.
• Foundational understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology.

Format

40 lessons · ~120 hours · 80-question exam

Careers this prepares you for

Surgical Technologist

How you study

Every lesson pairs an in-depth video with written notes, key takeaways, a hands-on lab, exercises and a quiz. Work at your own pace, then sit the final examination for your Erudex certificate.

Certified Surgical Technologist (NBSTSA CST) Prep

Curriculum

Module 1Module 1: Surgical Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology

Module 2Module 2: Microbiology and Principles of Asepsis

Module 3Module 3: Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia Management

Module 4Module 4: Preoperative Patient Care and Operating Room Preparation

Module 5Module 5: Intraoperative Techniques and Instrumentation

Module 6Module 6: Surgical Specialties and Procedural Steps

Module 7Module 7: Postoperative Care, Specimen Management, and Emergencies

Module 8Module 8: Sterilization, Decontamination, and Professional Practice

Careers this prepares you for

How you study