Whether you are a working Surgical Tech or recently graduated, the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)credential can boost your career. Certified professionals in this field enjoy more opportunities, professional prestige, and a higher salary.
How to Become Certified
The main credentialing body - The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) - provides certification opportunities for new and current professionals in the field. In order to qualify, candidates must deliver proof of prior surgical tech certification or have graduated from a surgical technology education or training program accredited by the NBSTSA or the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES).
Upon completion of a surgical technology degree, you could begin work and gain experience, or pursue surgical tech certification out of the gate. Once you pass the exam, you will be authorized to use the title CST - Certified Surgical Technologist.
Alternatively, you could become certified by The National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). In orer to qualify, you must be a graduate of an accredited school or program or a 2-year hospital training program, or have accomplished 7 years of work experience in the field. Passing of the exam authorizes a professional to use the title TS-C - Tech in Surgery-Certified.
The exam provides the highest standard of expertise required to operate as a top rate scrub tech in a diverse array of settings and geographic locations. Be prepared to study the content at length and to take a practice test, which will demonstrate whether or not you are ready to sit for the exam. The NBSTSA has prepared a content outline an a candidate handbook with a reference list, which can serve as a roadmap of the material, and ultimately facilitate a passing grade. Fees run from $190 to $290, and the test can be scheduled at any time.
Benefits of Surgical Tech Certification
Why become a CST? In addition to deepening your knowledge, surgical tech certification affords you credibility and prestige on a national scale. The CST is a well-known and highly esteemed credential that shows a professional has worked hard to accumulate the very best and up-to-date knowledge of the surgical technology field. The credential demands deference and trust among fellow medical personnel, can offer a leg up in a competitive job market, and command the highest level of surgical tech salary. If you are a surgical professional or recent graduate, consider pursuing surgical tech certification to boost your career.
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