A Surgical Technologist (ST) is a member of the surgical team responsible for maintaining the sterile field and assisting the surgeon, a role that demands precision and focus. Navigating the educational and certification steps is the first task for aspiring STs who seek to join this growing allied health profession. This guide details the specific requirements and processes necessary to achieve professional certification and begin this specialized career.
The Role of a Certified Surgical Technologist
A Certified Surgical Technologist is a member of the surgical team, working closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure successful patient outcomes. Their work is divided into preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases, beginning with preparing the operating room (OR) environment. This preparation involves assembling specialized equipment, checking device functionality, and meticulously gathering and organizing the surgical tools required for the specific procedure.
During the operation, the technologist functions as the “scrub person” and is primarily responsible for maintaining the sterile field and passing instruments to the surgeon with anticipation and speed. They monitor the sterile environment to prevent patient infection and may assist with technical tasks such as holding retractors or cutting sutures. The environment is fast-paced, requiring constant mental alertness and the ability to adapt quickly to changing procedural needs.
Postoperatively, the technologist assists with the final stages of the procedure, including performing a detailed count of all sponges, needles, and instruments to ensure nothing is inadvertently left inside the patient. They also apply dressings to the incision site and help transport the patient to the recovery room. Once the patient has left the OR, the technologist cleans, sterilizes, and restocks the surgical suite, readying it for the next procedure.
Educational Pathways to Eligibility
Becoming a Certified Surgical Technologist requires completing a formal educational program, such as a certificate, diploma, or the common Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Certificate programs can be completed in as little as 12 months, while an AAS degree typically requires two years of study and provides a more comprehensive foundation.
Accreditation status is important, as only graduates from recognized programs are eligible to sit for the primary certification exams. The two recognized accrediting bodies are the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). Selecting a program with either CAAHEP or ABHES accreditation is necessary for certification eligibility.
All accredited programs combine classroom instruction with mandatory practical experience in a clinical setting. This clinical component, often referred to as an externship, requires students to complete a specified number of supervised surgical cases, sometimes ranging from 300 to over 500 hours.
Navigating the Certification Examination
Achieving national certification is necessary for employment and is offered through two primary certifications. The most widely recognized certification is the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), administered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).
Eligibility for the CST exam requires graduation from a CAAHEP or ABHES accredited program. The CST examination is a comprehensive, computer-based test consisting of 175 multiple-choice questions, of which 150 are scored. To pass, candidates must correctly answer 98 of the scored questions.
The second major credential is the Tech in Surgery—Certified (TS-C), offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT). While the NBSTSA requires graduation from an accredited program, the NCCT offers broader eligibility, including formal education, military training, or verifiable work experience. Both certifications are nationally recognized, but the CST is frequently cited as the industry standard.
Essential Non-Academic Requirements
A career in the operating room demands specific personal attributes. Surgical technologists must possess exceptional attention to detail, as maintaining the sterile field requires constant vigilance. Effective communication and the ability to function seamlessly as part of a high-pressure team are necessary soft skills for anticipating the surgeon’s needs and reacting to dynamic situations.
The physical demands are substantial, requiring technologists to stand for long periods through multi-hour procedures and possess the stamina to remain alert. Good manual dexterity is required for handling delicate instruments and supplies. Candidates must also satisfy administrative requirements, including passing a criminal background check, drug screening, and providing proof of required immunizations.
Career Outlook and Professional Development
The career outlook for surgical technologists remains positive, with employment projected to grow 5 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the increasing number of surgical procedures performed in hospitals and outpatient surgical centers. The median annual wage was reported as $62,830 in May 2024, varying based on experience, specialization, and geographic location.
Maintaining the professional credential requires ongoing commitment through continuing education units (CEUs). Certified Surgical Technologists (CSTs) must recertify every two years by earning 30 CE credits or by retaking the certification examination. Experienced technologists can specialize in complex areas like cardiovascular or neurological surgery, or advance to roles such as a Surgical First Assistant or management.