Credentialing-Surgical Technician

The two main credentialing options for surgical technicians are the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) and the Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C). Both are nationally recognized. Most states and healthcare organizations accept the CST or TS-C surg tech certifications.

For those who attend college or technical programs, the CST exam has a first-time pass rate of 66.7%, while the TS-C exam has a 73% passing rate.

At this time, ICATAP apprentices have a 100% pass rate for the TS-C.

ICATAP curriculum provides a standard of excellence that prepares the apprentice for various board exams. Partners receive a comprehensive comparison book that outlines alignment with industry standards and standards of accreditation. ICCATAP currently works with TS-C credentials.

Contact us today to begin a partnership that brings industry and cutting edge training together to form elite staffing tailored to your organization.

The Certifications

Certified Surgical Technologist (CST)

Offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) ( since 1970)
Demonstrates knowledge and skill in the field
Considered the most common credential
Often preferred by employers

Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C) ( since 1989)

Offered by the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT)
A pathway to certification for surgical technologists already working in the field

How to get certified

To become certified, you must:

Complete an accredited surgical technologist program
Pass the relevant exam