CSFA Practice Test : Free Exam Questions & Study Guide
Prepare for your CSFA certification with our comprehensive study materials designed to help you pass on your first attempt. The Certified Surgical First Assistant credential demonstrates advanced proficiency in surgical procedures, making it a valuable asset for any operating room team.
Our free CSFA practice exam questions cover essential topics like anatomy, physiology, and surgical techniques. Whether you are reviewing for the NBSTSA CSFA exam or simply refreshing your knowledge, these resources provide the targeted practice you need to succeed.
The CSFA exam is a rigorous assessment administered by the NBSTSA to validate the skills of surgical first assistants. Achieving CSFA certification opens doors to higher Certified Surgical First Assistant salary potential and expanded career opportunities in hospitals and surgical centers nationwide.
Free CSFA Exam Questions
Take our free CSFA practice exam modules to assess your readiness. Each test covers critical areas like intraoperative procedures, anatomy, and microbiology found on the actual CSFA test.
CSFA Exam Flashcards
Quick review for the Certified Surgical First Assistant Exam
CSFA Certification Study Guide
Our CSFA study guide breaks down the exam into manageable sections. Review key details about the Certified Surgical First Assistant test to ensure you are fully prepared.
| What is the CSFA exam? | The CSFA exam is a national certification test administered by the NBSTSA for surgical first assistants to demonstrate advanced surgical skills and knowledge. |
| Who can take the CSFA test? | Candidates must graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited surgical first assistant program or meet other eligibility pathways set by the NBSTSA. |
| Why get CSFA certified? | Earning the Certified Surgical First Assistant credential validates your expertise and often leads to higher pay and better job prospects. |
| Is the CSFA exam hard? | The CSFA exam is challenging, covering complex surgical procedures and anatomy, requiring dedicated study and preparation. |
| How many questions are on the CSFA exam? | The CSFA examination consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, of which 150 are scored and 25 are unscored pretest items. |
| What is the time limit for the CSFA test? | Candidates are given 4 hours to complete the CSFA certification exam at a PSI testing center. |
| What topics are on the CSFA exam? | The exam covers perioperative care, intraoperative procedures, anatomy and physiology, microbiology, and surgical pharmacology. |
| Is the CSFA exam computer-based? | Yes, the CSFA test is a computer-based assessment administered at authorized PSI testing centers nationwide. |
| How do I register for the CSFA exam? | You can register for the CSFA exam by submitting an application and fee to the NBSTSA and scheduling your test with PSI. |
| How much does the CSFA exam cost? | The CSFA exam fee is typically $190 for AST members and $290 for non-members. |
| Where can I take the CSFA test? | The exam is offered at PSI testing centers located throughout the United States. |
| Can I reschedule my CSFA exam? | Yes, you can reschedule your appointment with PSI, usually up to 24 hours before your scheduled time without penalty. |
| What is a passing score for the CSFA exam? | You need to answer approximately 102 out of 150 scored questions correctly to pass the CSFA examination. |
| When do I get my CSFA results? | Unofficial results are typically provided immediately after completing the computer-based CSFA test at the center. |
| How long is CSFA certification valid? | CSFA certification is valid for 4 years and must be renewed through continuing education or re-examination. |
| What if I fail the CSFA exam? | If you fail, you can retake the CSFA exam up to three times per calendar year after paying the re-examination fee. |
| What is the average CSFA salary? | The average Certified Surgical First Assistant salary is approximately $65,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience and location. |
| Do CSFAs earn more than CSTs? | Yes, CSFAs generally earn a higher salary than Certified Surgical Technologists due to their advanced role and responsibilities. |
| Can a CSFA travel for work? | Yes, a traveling CSFA can earn significantly higher pay and receive housing stipends while working temporary contracts. |
| Does certification affect CSFA pay? | Employers often offer higher starting wages to candidates holding the accredited CSFA certification compared to non-certified assistants. |
CSFA Test Format & Content
Understanding the structure of the CSFA exam is key to success. The NBSTSA CSFA test evaluates your knowledge across three main domains essential for a Certified Surgical First Assistant.
Focuses on preoperative and postoperative patient care duties.
- Topics: Patient assessment, positioning, catheterization.
- Questions: Approx. 35 questions
The largest section covering surgical techniques and assistance.
- Topics: Surgical specialties, tissue handling, exposure.
- Questions: Approx. 70 questions
Tests foundational scientific knowledge required for surgery.
- Topics: Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology.
- Questions: Approx. 45 questions
Critical procedures to maintain a sterile field.
- Topics: Sterilization methods, contamination control.
- Questions: Integrated throughout
Documentation and legal responsibilities.
- Topics: Informed consent, incident reporting, scope of practice.
- Questions: Integrated throughout
Handling surgical complications and emergencies.
- Topics: Cardiac arrest, malignant hyperthermia response.
- Questions: Integrated throughout
Focus heavily on anatomy and surgical procedures, as these make up the bulk of the CSFA exam questions. Use a comprehensive CSFA study guide to review specific surgical steps.
CSFA Score Calculator
Estimate your CSFA exam score based on your practice results.
Certified Surgical First Assistant Salary
The Certified Surgical First Assistant salary reflects the advanced skills required for the role. Earnings for CSFA jobs vary by experience, location, and employer type.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary | Monthly Income | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $45,000 | $3,750 | 0-2 Years |
| Mid-Level | $65,000 | $5,416 | 2-5 Years |
| Experienced | $80,000 | $6,666 | 5+ Years |
| Traveling CSFA | $100,000+ | $8,333+ | Variable |
| Lead Tech | $90,000 | $7,500 | 7+ Years |
Obtaining CSFA certification significantly increases earning potential compared to non-certified surgical assistants or CSTs.
How to Become a Certified Surgical First Assistant
The path to becoming a Certified Surgical First Assistant involves education and training. Follow these steps to complete an accredited surgical first assistant program and earn your certification.
- Enroll in a CAAHEP Accredited Program - Find an accredited surgical first assistant program that meets educational standards. Many CSFA programs online offer flexibility.
- Complete Clinical Requirements - Gain hands-on experience by completing required surgical cases and clinical hours.
- Apply for the CSFA Exam - Submit your application and fees to the NBSTSA to schedule your exam.
- Study for the Test - Use a CSFA study guide and practice tests to prepare for the 175-question exam.
- Pass the CSFA Examination - Achieve a passing score on the computer-based test at a PSI center.
- Maintain Certification - Renew your credential every 4 years through continuing education (CE) credits.
- Explore Career Options - Look for certified surgical first assistant jobs in hospitals, surgery centers, or as a traveler.
CSFA Certification Cost
Understanding the CSFA exam cost and associated fees is important for planning. Below is a breakdown of the typical expenses for CSFA certification.
The cost of CSFA certification is an investment in your career that pays off quickly through higher Certified Surgical First Assistant salary potential.
CSFA Career Opportunities
Explore diverse career paths available to those with CSFA certification.
CSFA Testing Contacts
Contact the NBSTSA or testing agencies for official information regarding the CSFA exam.
Check the AST job board and local hospital listings to find certified surgical first assistant jobs near me after passing your exam.
CSFA Test Day Checklist
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START FREE PRACTICE TESTCSFA Renewal Requirements
To maintain your CSFA certification, you must renew it every 4 years. The NBSTSA requires continuing education to ensure you stay current with surgical advancements.
Keep track of your CE credits to avoid lapsing. Re-taking the CSFA exam is required if your certification expires.
CSFA Exam Questions and Answers
To pass the CSFA exam, you generally need to answer about 102 of the 150 scored questions correctly, which equates to approximately 68-70%.
You can find accredited CSFA programs near me by searching the CAAHEP website or checking with local community colleges that offer certified surgical first assistant programs.
Yes, several institutions offer CSFA programs online for the didactic portion, but you will still need to complete in-person clinical rotations to meet eligibility requirements.
A CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) primarily handles instruments and sterile field setup, while a CSFA (Certified Surgical First Assistant) assists the surgeon with tasks like suturing, clamping, and dissecting.
The average Certified Surgical First Assistant salary ranges from $65,000 to over $90,000 per year, with traveling CSFA positions earning significantly more.
Yes, many professionals start as a CST and advance their career by completing a surgical first assistant program to become a CSFA.
The CSFA examination consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, covering perioperative care, intraoperative procedures, and basic sciences.
CSFA certification renewal requires submitting 75 continuing education (CE) credits every 4 years and paying the renewal fee to the NBSTSA.
The CSFA test is considered challenging due to its comprehensive coverage of surgical procedures. Using a robust CSFA study guide is highly recommended.
With CSFA certification, you can work as a surgical first assistant in hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, or specialized clinics, or pursue traveling CSFA opportunities.