CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

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.

⏱️
4h
Time Limit
📝
175
Questions
70%
Pass Rate
💵
$190
Exam Fee
📊
Scaled
Scoring
🖥️
CBT
Format
🔄
3
Retakes
🏢
PSI
Centers
📍
USA
Based
🩺
Yes
Licensure
💻
Yes
Computer
🎓
Yes
Degree

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.

CSFA Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

CSFA Advanced Surgical Anatomy
CSFA Exam Questions covering Advanced Surgical Anatomy. Master CSFA Test concepts for certification prep.
CSFA Aseptic Technique and Sterilization
Free CSFA Practice Test featuring Aseptic Technique and Sterilization. Improve your CSFA Exam score with mock test prep.
CSFA Hemostasis and Wound Closure
CSFA Mock Exam on CSFA Hemostasis and Wound Closure. CSFA Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.
CSFA Surgical Equipment and Technology
CSFA Test Prep for CSFA Surgical Equipment and Technology. Practice CSFA Quiz questions and boost your score.
CSFA Intraoperative Procedures and Techniques
CSFA Questions and Answers on Intraoperative Procedures and Techniques. Free CSFA practice for exam readiness.
CSFA Intraoperative Surgical Procedures
CSFA Mock Test covering Intraoperative Surgical Procedures. Online CSFA Test practice with instant feedback.
CSFA Microbiology and Infection Control
Free CSFA Quiz on Microbiology and Infection Control. CSFA Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.
CSFA Postoperative and Emergency Care
CSFA Practice Questions for Postoperative and Emergency Care. Build confidence for your CSFA certification exam.
CSFA Postoperative Patient Management
CSFA Test Online for Postoperative Patient Management. Free practice with instant results and feedback.
CSFA Preoperative Patient Preparation
CSFA Study Material on Preoperative Patient Preparation. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.
CSFA Surgical Anatomy and Physiology
Free CSFA Test covering Surgical Anatomy and Physiology. Practice and track your CSFA exam readiness.
CSFA Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia
CSFA Exam Questions covering Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia. Master CSFA Test concepts for certification prep.
CSFA Surgical First Assist Anatomy & Physi...
Free CSFA Practice Test featuring Surgical First Assist Anatomy & Physiology. Improve your CSFA Exam score with mock test prep.
CSFA Surgical First Assist
CSFA Mock Exam on Surgical First Assist. CSFA Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.
CSFA Surgical Instruments
CSFA Test Prep for Surgical Instruments. Practice CSFA Quiz questions and boost your score.
FREE CSFA PRACTICE TEST

CSFA Exam Flashcards

Quick review for the Certified Surgical First Assistant Exam

📚 🩺What is the primary role of a CSFA during surgery?
The primary role of a CSFA is to assist the surgeon by providing exposure, hemostasis, and other technical functions to help the operation proceed smoothly.
🎯 🧼What is the standard time for a surgical hand scrub?
The standard time for a surgical hand scrub is typically 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the specific antimicrobial agent and facility protocol used.
💡 🩹Which suture material is absorbable?
Vicryl (Polyglactin 910) is a common synthetic absorbable suture used for soft tissue approximation and ligation.
🔑 🩸What is hemostasis?
Hemostasis is the process of stopping bleeding or hemorrhage, which is a critical skill for a Certified Surgical First Assistant.
📝 🧠Which nerve is at risk during a thyroidectomy?
The recurrent laryngeal nerve is at risk of injury during a thyroidectomy, which can result in vocal cord paralysis.
⭐ ✂️What is the use of a Metzenbaum scissor?
Metzenbaum scissors are used for dissecting and cutting delicate tissue, not for cutting sutures or heavy fascia.
CSFA EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

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.

📚 CSFA Basics

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.

📝 CSFA Format

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.

📅 CSFA Registration

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.

📊 CSFA Results

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.

💵 CSFA Salary

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.

🔴 🏥Perioperative Care / Domain 1

Focuses on preoperative and postoperative patient care duties.

Pre-opPostSafetyAssessment
  • Topics: Patient assessment, positioning, catheterization.
  • Questions: Approx. 35 questions
🟠 🔪Intraoperative Procedures / Domain 2

The largest section covering surgical techniques and assistance.

SurgeryInstrumentsHemostasis
  • Topics: Surgical specialties, tissue handling, exposure.
  • Questions: Approx. 70 questions
🟡 🔬Basic Science / Domain 3

Tests foundational scientific knowledge required for surgery.

AnatomyPhysiologyMicrobiologyPharm
  • Topics: Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology.
  • Questions: Approx. 45 questions
🟢 🧪Aseptic Technique / Core Skill

Critical procedures to maintain a sterile field.

SterilityScrubbingGowningDraping
  • Topics: Sterilization methods, contamination control.
  • Questions: Integrated throughout
🔵 📋Administrative Duties / Professional

Documentation and legal responsibilities.

EthicsLegalRecordsConsent
  • Topics: Informed consent, incident reporting, scope of practice.
  • Questions: Integrated throughout
🟣 🚑Emergency Situations / Critical

Handling surgical complications and emergencies.

HemorrhageTraumaArrest
  • 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.

START CSFA REVIEWER QUIZ

CSFA Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions
150

Estimated score calculation

105 out of 150 correct
70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct ✓ PASS

Certified Surgical First Assistant Salary

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.

1

Enroll in Program

2

Complete Hours

3

Pass CSFA Test

4

Get Licensed

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.

💵
$190
AST Member Fee Exam fee for members
💳
$290
Non-Member Fee Exam fee for non-members
🔄
$40
Renewal Fee For AST members
📚
$50+
Study Materials Books & Practice Tests
🏫
$5k+
Program Tuition Varies by school

The cost of CSFA certification is an investment in your career that pays off quickly through higher Certified Surgical First Assistant salary potential.

FREE CSFA MOCK EXAM

CSFA Testing Contacts

Contact the NBSTSA or testing agencies for official information regarding the CSFA exam.

🏢
NBSTSA
Certifying Body

Website: nbstsa.org

Services: Exam Application

Contact: 800-707-0057

📝
PSI
Exams Testing Partner

Website: psiexams.com

Services: Scheduling

Contact: 855-340-3710

🎓
CAAHEP
Accreditation

Website: caahep.org

Services: Accredited Programs

Contact: 727-210-2350

👥
AST
Association

Website: ast.org

Services: Membership

Contact: 303-694-9130

CSFA CERTIFICATION PRACTICE TEST

CSFA Test Day Checklist

Valid ID (Govt Issued)
NBSTSA Authorization Letter
Arrive 30 Mins Early
Leave Electronics in Car
Review Exam Content
Comfortable Clothing
Hydrate Before Exam
Relax and Focus

Ready to Pass Your CSFA Exam?

Get unlimited access to free CSFA exam questions and comprehensive study guides. Start your journey to becoming a Certified Surgical First Assistant today.

CSFA 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.

🔄
Cycle
4 Years
📚
CE Credits
75 Hours
💵
Fee
$40

Keep track of your CE credits to avoid lapsing. Re-taking the CSFA exam is required if your certification expires.

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Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Questions and Answers

How many questions are on the CSFA exam?

The Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) exam, administered by the NBSTSA, consists of 175 multiple-choice questions. Of these, 150 are scored, and 25 are unscored pre-test questions used for future exam development. You will have a four-hour time limit to complete the entire exam for your 2026 certification attempt.

Is the CSFA certification exam difficult?

The CSFA exam is considered challenging due to its comprehensive scope, covering preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative patient care. It requires a deep understanding of surgical anatomy, procedures, and emergency management. The national pass rate fluctuates, so thorough preparation using a 2026 study guide and practice tests is essential for success.

What is the best way to pass the CSFA exam on the first attempt?

To pass the CSFA exam on your first try, create a structured study plan based on the NBSTSA content outline. Focus on high-yield areas like surgical anatomy and emergency procedures. Consistently taking realistic practice tests is key to identifying weak spots and mastering time management for your 2026 exam date.

How much does the CSFA exam cost in 2026?

As of early 2026, the initial application and examination fee for the CSFA certification is typically set by the NBSTSA. The cost is generally around $600, but it's crucial to verify the exact fee on the official NBSTSA website, as prices can be updated annually. This fee covers both the application processing and one attempt at the exam.

Where can I find a FREE CSFA practice test online?

Our platform offers a comprehensive and FREE CSFA practice test designed to simulate the real exam experience. Our 2026 question bank is developed by certified experts and covers all key domains, from preoperative preparation to postoperative management. It's an invaluable tool for assessing your readiness and focusing your study efforts effectively.

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