CST Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CST facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Malignant hyperthermia is most commonly triggered by which combination of agents? → Succinylcholine and volatile halogenated agents
2. What does a chemical indicator show? → Conditions for sterilization were met
3. In Surgical Pharmacology, what is the FIRST step a CST professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
4. What is the significance of peer review in evidence-based practice & research methods for CST professionals? → It promotes accountability, knowledge sharing, and quality improvement
5. Which technology trend is most likely to impact evidence-based practice & research methods in the CST field in coming years? → Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting
6. Why should you never recap used needles? → To avoid accidental needle sticks
7. Which reversal agent is used to antagonize non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents at the end of surgery? → Neostigmine
8. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Surgical Pharmacology? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
9. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for quality assurance & performance improvement in CST certification? → Critical thinking and evidence-based decision making
10. Why is OR turnover important? → To reduce infection risk and prepare for the next case
11. What is the significance of peer review in professional ethics & legal compliance for CST professionals? → It promotes accountability, knowledge sharing, and quality improvement
12. What does an ASA Physical Status Classification of I indicate? → A normal, healthy patient with no systemic disease
13. When a conflict arises between standard procedures and a unique situation in Perioperative Patient Care, what should a CST professional prioritize? → Safety and ethical obligations while seeking expert consultation
14. How does continuing education relate to quality assurance & performance improvement for CST certified professionals? → It ensures professionals stay current with evolving standards and best practices
15. How should sharps be handled after surgery? → Place in approved sharps container
16. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for evidence-based practice & research methods in CST certification? → Critical thinking and evidence-based decision making
17. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Surgical Asepsis & Sterile Technique for CST professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
18. Which technology trend is most likely to impact professional ethics & legal compliance in the CST field in coming years? → Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting
19. What documentation follows a surgery? → Surgical count, times, and specimen documentation
20. How should a CST professional handle a situation where quality assurance & performance improvement protocols conflict with practical constraints? → Document the conflict and seek guidance from appropriate authorities
21. Which quality improvement method is most applicable to professional ethics & legal compliance in Certified Surgical Technician? → Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) continuous improvement cycle
22. What should be included in the specimen label? → Patient name, date, time, and specimen type
23. Which surgical position is most commonly used for perineal, rectal, urologic, and gynecological procedures? → Lithotomy
24. What is the correct action after noticing missing instruments? → Report it and initiate an instrument count
25. In Surgical Asepsis & Sterile Technique, what is the FIRST step a CST professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
26. What is the primary purpose of quality assurance & performance improvement in the context of Certified Surgical Technician? → To ensure consistent quality and professional accountability
27. What is the PRIMARY purpose of continuing education requirements in Wound Closure & Healing for CST professionals? → Maintaining current knowledge and competency as the field evolves
28. When implementing quality assurance & performance improvement practices, what should a CST professional prioritize first? → Compliance with established standards and protocols
29. Which technology trend is most likely to impact quality assurance & performance improvement in the CST field in coming years? → Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting
30. What is the primary purpose of evidence-based practice & research methods in the context of Certified Surgical Technician? → To ensure consistent quality and professional accountability