That's What We Bring to the Operating Room

Precision // Preparation // Expert Patient Care

That's What We Bring to the Operating Room

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Join 80,000+ Certified

Surgical Technologists & First Assistants

Step into the heart of the operating room with confidence. Certified Surgical Technologists® (CSTs) are the vital link between precision and performance, ensuring every surgical procedure runs seamlessly. From preparing instruments to maintaining a sterile environment, CSTs keep the surgical team ready for anything.

Certified Surgical First Assistants® (CSFAs) are the surgeon’s right hand in the operating room—anticipating needs, managing complex tasks, and ensuring precision at every step. Whether controlling bleeding, closing incisions, or performing other technical duties, CSFAs play a direct and essential role in every surgical outcome.

NBSTSA

The Premier Standard in Certification

Patient & Safety Outcomes

CSTs and CSFAs are patient safety focused.

Didactic Education

CSTs and CSFAs come in educated, trained, and ready for the job.

Surgeon Satisfaction

Surgeons trust and seek out CSTs and CSFAs.

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Nationally Recognized and State-Mandated Credentials

The CST® and CSFA® demonstrates a higher level of training, professional competency, and commitment to the field—giving you a competitive edge over those who are non-certified.

The CST is also recognized by leading professional organizations, including the Association of Surgical Technologists, the American College of Surgeons, and the Council on Surgical & Perioperative Safety.

50+
Years of Excellence
86K
Active CSTs and CSFAs
7+
Professional Endorsements
30
Years Accredited by NCCA

Start Your Career on the Right Path

Earning the CST® or CSFA® can lead you to increased job and travel opportunities, higher earning potential, and increased confidence in performing critical tasks in the operating room.

Student Academic Merit Awardees Announced

We are pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s awards.

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NBSTSA Welcomes New Board Members

Rebecca Music, CST, CSFA, FAST and Peggy Varnado, CST, CSFA, FAST have joined our board of directors.

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NBSTSA Accredited Another 5 Years

NBSTSA is pleased to announce that the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) has renewed its accreditation for a 5-year period.

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Affiliate Organizations

  • Institute for Credentialing Excellence
  • National Commission for Certifying Agencys (NCCS)
  • Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA)
  • CLEAR

 

Sponsoring Organizations

  • American College of Surgeons
  • Association of Surgical Technologists