CRCST Practice Test 2026: 50 Free Questions + Answers
Published 2026-11-03 · Facts and text checked 2026-11-02 · Questions from our CRCST study guide · Reviewed by Hana N., Quality Reviewer
The CRCST exam, from the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA), has 150 multiple-choice questions (125 scored) and you get 3 hours. HSPA reports pass or fail without a published passing score. Below are 50 free questions from our CRCST study guide, each with the correct answer and an explanation.
Every answer has an explanation, and your result shows which sections of the official outline need more work. You will often read that you need 70% to pass the CRCST. HSPA does not publish that number. On our questions, aim for 75% or more in every section: that is our study target, not an official cut score.
| Fact | Value and source |
|---|---|
| Exam body | Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA, formerly IAHCSMM)HSPA: Certification Handbook (revised January 2026) · checked 2026-10-10 |
| Number of questions | 150 questions (125 scored, 25 unscored)HSPA: Certification Handbook (revised January 2026) · checked 2026-10-10 |
| Exam time | 3 hoursHSPA: Certification Handbook (revised January 2026) · checked 2026-10-10 |
| Passing score (how it works) | Pass/fail only: HSPA does not publish a numeric passing score. The cut point is set with a criterion-referenced method (Angoff, with the Beuk compromise).HSPA: CRCST certification page · checked 2026-10-10 |
Want a verdict instead of a practice set? Take the free "Am I ready?" quiz: 25 different questions, your score and the topics to study next.
50 free CRCST practice questions
Question 1Easy
A central service department stores two chemicals: a strong acid and a strong base. What is the most important rule for storing these chemicals?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. They must be stored in separate cabinets to avoid violent reactions
Acids and bases are incompatible; if they mix, they can generate heat, gas, and cause container rupture or explosion. Proper storage requires physical separation, using dedicated cabinets or segregation barriers to prevent accidental contact.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 35). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 2Easy
A load record shows the cycle number as 2025-02-15-001. What does each part of this number represent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Year-month-day-sequential load number
The format 2025-02-15-001 represents year (2025), month (02), day (15), and the sequential load number (001). This standard format allows easy sorting and tracking of loads by date.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 27). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 3Easy
When arranging sharp instruments in a sterilization tray, what is the appropriate method to protect the tips?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Use silicone tip protectors over the points.
Silicone tip protectors are designed to prevent damage to sharp points and protect personnel during handling. Wrapping in cloth does not secure tips; upward tips pose safety risks; plastic bags may impede steam sterilization.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 4). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 4Easy
To maximize the likelihood of detecting a cleaning failure, where should a chemical indicator be placed in a washer-disinfector load?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Inside a wrapped instrument set (most challenging location)
Chemical indicators must be placed in the most challenging location to ensure that if conditions are met there, they are met throughout the load. Taping to the top tray is less stringent, as that area receives the most direct spray.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 91). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 5Easy
After an ethylene oxide sterilization cycle, items made of which material are most likely to retain residual gas and require the longest aeration time?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
EtO absorbs into plastics like PVC, rubber, and certain metals. PVC is a high-absorption material, requiring longer aeration. Metals and cotton absorb less gas.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 50). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 6Medium
Thoracic surgery instruments, such as lung clamps, often have longer shafts compared to general surgical instruments. What is the typical shaft length range for these respiratory instruments?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. 30-40 cm
Because the chest cavity is deep, respiratory instruments like lung clamps and bronchus occlusion clamps have shafts measuring 30 to 40 cm to reach the lungs and hilar structures. Shorter lengths are used for more superficial surgeries.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 36). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 7Medium
An enzymatic detergent is used to clean instruments. The manufacturer's instructions state that the water temperature should be below 45°C (113°F). Which of the following best explains this requirement?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Enzymes are denatured at high temperatures, reducing their effectiveness.
Enzymatic detergents contain proteins (enzymes) that break down organic soil. High temperatures (above 45°C) denature these enzymes, making them ineffective. While hot water can coagulate proteins, that is not the primary reason for the temperature limit; the key is preserving enzyme activity.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 42). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 8Medium
To reduce the risk of repetitive motion injuries in the decontamination area, how often should technicians rotate between tasks?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Every 60 to 90 minutes
The text recommends rotating tasks every 60 to 90 minutes to prevent repetitive strain. Shorter intervals (30-45 minutes) are less practical, and longer intervals increase injury risk.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 35). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 9Medium
A hospital wishes to deviate from AAMI ST79 guidelines for steam sterilization by reducing the exposure time for wrapped instruments. What must the facility do to remain compliant?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Document a written risk assessment justifying the deviation.
Any deviation from AAMI standards must be supported by a written risk assessment that demonstrates the alternative process still ensures sterility. Verbal approval or notifying the Joint Commission are not sufficient substitutes for a documented risk analysis.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 9). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 10Medium
A technician inspects a Kelly clamp and notices that when the instrument is fully closed, the tips do not meet evenly. What condition is this?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Misalignment of the tips
The tips of a properly aligned clamp should meet exactly when closed; misalignment indicates that the instrument needs repair before use.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 106). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 11Medium
For effective manual cleaning of instruments that are heavily soiled with blood and fatty tissue, which enzymes must be present in the detergent?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Protease and lipase
Enzymatic detergents must contain protease (to break down protein) and lipase (to break down fats) for effective soil removal. Amylase targets starches, which are not a primary component of blood or tissue, and cellulase is not relevant here.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 93). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 12Medium
A shipment of loaner instrumentation arrives for an orthopedic surgery scheduled in five days. The instruments have an expiration date that is three days earlier than the currently stored loaner sets for the same procedure. According to FEFO (First-Expiry-First-Out) principles, what should the technician do?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Position the new loaner sets so they are accessible before the existing sets
FEFO requires that items with the earliest expiration date are used first. The new loaner sets expire sooner, so they should be positioned to be used before the existing sets. Option A would bury the short-dated items, and options B and C are wasteful or premature.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 134). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 13Medium
A technician struggles to move a heavy cart across the department. Which pushing technique correctly uses the legs to generate force?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Engaging leg muscles and leaning body weight into the push
Leaning the body weight into the push while using leg muscles efficiently generates force without straining the back. Leaning only with the torso (A) or bending (B) puts stress on the spine; jerking (D) risks injury.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 5). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 14Medium
A facility is considering purchasing an ultrasonic cleaner for cleaning a variety of surgical instruments. Which frequency is most appropriate for general cleaning?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. 40 kHz
40 kHz is the standard frequency for general cleaning, providing effective cavitation without being overly aggressive for most instruments.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 111). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 15Medium
A technician notices that the relative humidity in the EtO sterilizer during preconditioning was 35%. What is the primary concern?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The alkylation reaction will be less effective.
EtO requires adequate humidity (40-80%) for optimal alkylation of microbial DNA. Low humidity reduces the kill rate.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 15). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 16Medium
A surgeon needs to dissect delicate connective tissue surrounding a nerve. Which scissors are most appropriate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Metzenbaum scissors
Metzenbaum scissors are used for delicate dissection of soft tissue, with long, slender blades and curved tips. Mayo scissors are heavier and used for cutting fascia and sutures.
From practice test 4 of our CRCST study guide (question 114). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 17Medium
A technician ensures that all instruments from a contaminated case are transported directly to the decontamination area without passing through clean areas. Which link in the chain of infection is primarily being broken?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Mode of transmission
The one-way workflow from dirty to clean prevents contaminated instruments from contacting clean areas, which breaks the chain at the mode of transmission (indirect contact). The other links are not directly affected by this workflow change.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 123). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 18Medium
A battery-powered surgical saw has a removable lithium-ion battery. After cleaning the handpiece and battery separately, the IFU states that the handpiece can be steam sterilized but the battery must be sterilized using a low-temperature method. Which of the following is the most likely reason the battery requires low-temperature sterilization?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. The battery contains electronic components that can be damaged by steam's high temperature.
Lithium-ion batteries contain sensitive electronics and are often not compatible with the high temperatures of steam sterilization; low-temperature methods like hydrogen peroxide gas plasma are specified to prevent damage. The primary reason is protection of internal electronics, not plastic casing or contacts alone.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 84). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 19Medium
During a weekly cleaning verification test, the indicator shows residual soil after the washer-decontaminator cycle. What must be done with instruments processed since the last passing test?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. They must be quarantined and reprocessed.
The text explicitly states that when a cleaning indicator fails, every load processed since the last passing test must be quarantined and reprocessed. Visual inspection and machine parameters are insufficient guarantees.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 2). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 20Medium
A technician notes that increasing the sterilization temperature from 37°C to 55°C for an ethylene oxide load reduces the required exposure time from 4 hours to 1.5 hours for the same sterility assurance level. This inverse relationship means that:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Higher temperatures allow shorter exposure times.
Higher temperature accelerates the sterilization reaction, so less exposure time is needed. The opposite is true for lower temperatures, which require longer exposure. The relationship is inversely proportional, not independent.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 148). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 21Hard
Which statement best describes a Class 3 chemical indicator?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. It reacts to a single critical parameter such as temperature
Class 3 indicators respond to only one critical parameter (e.g., a specific temperature), unlike multiparameter indicators.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 87). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 22Hard
During a Joint Commission survey, a surveyor follows a single patient's journey through the hospital department by department. In central service, the surveyor asks to see sterilization records and observes the separation of decontamination and clean areas. This methodology is called:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Tracer methodology
The Joint Commission uses tracer methodology to follow a patient’s experience through the facility. In central service, this involves reviewing sterilization records and verifying proper separation of dirty and clean areas. The other options are different quality improvement tools.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 70). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 23Hard
A central service manager is redesigning the layout of the sterile storage room. The existing shelving is placed directly under several fluorescent light fixtures that generate noticeable heat. Which of the following actions would best address the risk while maintaining necessary lighting?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Relocate the shelving so it is at least 18 inches below the fixtures.
The 18-inch clearance from the ceiling is a specific standard to allow air circulation and prevent localized heating; placing racks directly under heat-generating lights can raise local temperatures and cause condensation. Relocating shelving to maintain this clearance directly addresses the risk.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 44). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 24Hard
AAMI standards do not prescribe specific ergonomic protocols. What do they require regarding the work environment?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. A safe work environment
The text states that AAMI standards require the department to maintain a safe work environment, but they do not dictate specific ergonomic protocols. The other options are specific measures, not general requirements.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 67). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 25Hard
When handling instruments visibly contaminated with blood and pus from a patient with MRSA, which personal protective equipment (PPE) combination is most appropriate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Heavy-duty gloves, fluid-resistant gown, face shield, and mask
Handling contaminated instruments with splashes requires heavy-duty gloves, a fluid-resistant gown, face shield, and mask to protect against contact and splash exposure. Standard gloves and mask are insufficient.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 93). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 26Easy
A central service technician notices that when the door to the sterile storage room is opened, air flows into the room from the corridor. What is the most likely consequence of this condition?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Contaminants from the corridor will be pulled into the storage room.
When air flows into the sterile storage room from the corridor, the room is under negative pressure relative to the corridor. Negative pressure causes unfiltered air and contaminants to be drawn into the room each time the door opens, compromising sterility.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 7). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 27Hard
After steam sterilization, a technician needs to verify the seal integrity of peel pouches. Which method is correct for checking the seal?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Visually inspect the seal line for any gaps, bubbles, or interruptions.
Seal integrity is verified by visual inspection for any compromises along the seal. Pulling the pouch apart destroys the seal, and chemical indicators do not assess seal quality. Tapping is not a standard method. The closest distractor is checking the chemical indicator, which is unrelated to seal integrity.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 148). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 28Medium
A technician picks up a clamp that crushes tissue for hemostasis but mistakenly thinks it is a needle holder. Which clamp is being misused?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Kocher clamp
The text distinguishes Kocher clamps (used for crushing tissue to achieve hemostasis) from Crile clamps (used for holding a needle). Confusing them is a common error.
From practice test 4 of our CRCST study guide (question 4). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 29Medium
After manually scrubbing a laparoscopic grasper with a brush, what is the next step in the cleaning process?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Ultrasonic cleaning
Ultrasonic cleaning follows manual scrubbing for hard-to-clean items like laparoscopic graspers to remove soil from crevices. Sterilization occurs only after cleaning is complete.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 122). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 30Easy
During a prevacuum steam sterilization cycle, a large wrapped instrument set requires a shorter total cycle time compared to gravity displacement. Approximately how long does the entire prevacuum cycle take for such a load?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. 15 minutes
Prevacuum cycles for wrapped sets typically run about 15 minutes total because the vacuum removes air rapidly, allowing faster steam penetration and shorter exposure. Gravity cycles require 30 minutes or more of exposure time alone.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 82). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 31Medium
A technician completes a sterilization load record but forgets to document the biological indicator lot number and incubation end time. Later, the BI shows no growth. What is the best course of action?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Draw a single line through the blank space and write the missing data
The correct method to correct an error on a paper record is to draw a single line through the mistake, write the correct information above, and initial and date the change. Leaving it blank or discarding the record violates documentation standards. Adding data without a correction line could be seen as falsification.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 40). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 32Medium
A technician finds a small raised edge on the jaw of a rongeur. The edge catches on gauze during testing and feels rough. What is the appropriate action?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Send the instrument for deburring to remove the raised edge.
A burr is a repairable defect; deburring smooths the raised metal without replacing the instrument. Replacement is unnecessary unless there is a crack, and using it as is could cause tissue damage.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 82). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 33Hard
During a team lift of a heavy instrument set, both technicians are positioned on opposite sides of the tray. Technician A lifts with a straight back and uses leg muscles, but twists at the waist to place the tray on a cart. Technician B keeps the tray close to the body and turns with the feet. Which technician's action violates safe lifting guidelines?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Technician A only
Technician A twists the torso while lifting, which places shear stress on the spine and violates safe lifting guidelines. Technician B uses correct body mechanics by turning with the feet and keeping the load close.
From practice test 4 of our CRCST study guide (question 21). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 34Easy
What type of lubricant must be used on surgical instruments before steam sterilization?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. A water-soluble, instrument-safe lubricant.
Water-soluble lubricants are required because oil-based lubricants can block steam penetration and leave residues that interfere with sterilization.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 145). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 35Hard
A hospital experiences frequent overtime in central service and occasional case delays due to missing sterile trays. An audit reveals that many trays are found expired on the shelf. Which of the following is the most direct financial consequence of poor FEFO adherence?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Increased reprocessing workload and supply waste
Poor FEFO leads to expired supplies that cannot be used, requiring reprocessing or replacement, which increases workload and costs, the most direct financial impact.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 55). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 36Medium
After sterilization, a wrapped instrument package is stored on a shelf. Which condition is most likely to compromise the package integrity during storage?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Placing heavy items on top of the package.
Weight or compression can damage the wrap or seal, creating pathways for microorganisms. Proper temperature and humidity support integrity, and stock rotation is good practice but does not directly compromise integrity.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 35). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 37Medium
After an orthopedic procedure, which step is essential for processing the instruments?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. They must be disassembled according to manufacturer instructions to remove bone debris from threads and hinges.
Orthopedic instruments often have crevices and moving parts where bone debris lodges. Disassembly per manufacturer instructions is essential for thorough cleaning.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 48). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 38Easy
A prevacuum steam sterilizer is set to 134°C. What is the minimum exposure time required for sterilization?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. 4 minutes
For a prevacuum steam sterilizer at 134°C, the standard minimum exposure time is 4 minutes; 30 minutes applies to gravity displacement at 121°C.
From practice test 7 of our CRCST study guide (question 83). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 39Easy
In which type of sterilizer are steam-flush pressure-pulse (SFPP) cycles most commonly used?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Tabletop sterilizers
SFPP cycles are a newer variant developed for use in tabletop sterilizers, where they provide effective air removal for wrapped textiles and mixed loads. Large hospital bulk sterilizers more commonly use prevacuum cycles.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 108). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 40Medium
A company is seeking 510(k) clearance for a new rigid sterilization container. What must the submission demonstrate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. That the device is substantially equivalent to a legally marketed predicate device.
A 510(k) submission requires evidence that the new device is substantially equivalent to a predicate device already on the market. Clinical trials are not required for most 510(k) submissions.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 45). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 41Easy
What is the maximum recommended weight for a single sterilization container or wrapped set?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. 25 pounds (11.3 kg)
AAMI standards specify a maximum weight of 25 pounds per container or wrapped set to ensure safe handling and uniform sterilization. Heavier sets (C, D) may not heat evenly and pose ergonomic risks. The lower weight (A) is unnecessarily restrictive.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 62). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 42Easy
When cleaning up a chemical spill, what is the correct technique for applying absorbent material?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Work from the outer edge of the spill inward.
To avoid spreading the spill, start at the outer edge and work inward, using the absorbent material specified in the SDS.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 26). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 43Easy
What is the characteristic shape of a Deaver retractor blade?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. A curved, broad blade
A Deaver retractor has a curved, broad blade used for deep retraction of organs. Other shapes describe different retractors.
From practice test 4 of our CRCST study guide (question 81). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 44Medium
A central service department is asked to store sterile supplies in a satellite location on a surgical floor. The satellite room currently has no temperature or humidity monitoring. What action should be taken?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Install monitoring and ensure the room meets the same 64-75°F and 30-60% humidity standards
Any satellite storage location must meet the same environmental standards (temperature, humidity, airflow) as the main sterile storage, including monitoring.
From practice test 3 of our CRCST study guide (question 49). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 45Hard
A technician is cleaning a laparoscopic suction tip. What is the correct requirement for the lumen brush used?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. The bristles must emerge visibly from the far end.
The text requires a lumen brush whose bristles emerge visibly from the far end to ensure the entire channel is brushed.
From practice test 8 of our CRCST study guide (question 22). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 46Hard
During cleaning, a technician notices a microvascular clamp with a small burr on its jaw. What is the most likely consequence if this clamp is returned to service without repair?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The burr could tear a delicate vessel during surgery
The burr on the clamp jaw can tear a delicate vessel during surgery. Therefore, returning it to service without repair risks vessel damage.
From practice test 4 of our CRCST study guide (question 93). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 47Medium
After a recall of a sterile surgical instrument, what is the primary purpose of the lot number on its packaging?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. To link the item to its specific sterilization cycle and load
The lot number uniquely identifies the sterilization load and cycle, enabling traceability of all items in that load during a recall. Manufacturer identification, expiration date, and processing department are not the primary purposes of the lot number.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 28). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 48Medium
Which of the following correctly describes a steam-flush pressure-pulse (SFPP) sterilization cycle?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. It alternates pulses of steam and pressure to forcibly purge air from porous loads
The text defines SFPP as a dynamic air removal cycle using alternating pulses of steam and pressure. Option B describes a prevacuum cycle, and option A describes gravity displacement.
From practice test 6 of our CRCST study guide (question 58). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 49Hard
Ethylene oxide (EtO) canisters are used for low-temperature sterilization. According to NFPA codes, which storage condition is required for these canisters?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. They must be stored in a well-ventilated area with explosion-proof electrical fixtures.
Ethylene oxide is a flammable and explosive gas. NFPA codes require storage in a well-ventilated area with explosion-proof electrical equipment to prevent ignition. Outdoor storage may be an option but is not the minimum requirement, and water spray is not mandated.
From practice test 5 of our CRCST study guide (question 27). Original question, not an official exam item.
Question 50Medium
Before assembling a rigid sterilization container, what must be verified?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. The filter or valve system is intact and free of blockages
The filter or valve is critical for steam penetration and maintaining sterility; a tear or blockage compromises the barrier. External indicators are applied after assembly, and lubrication is not required.
From practice test 2 of our CRCST study guide (question 141). Original question, not an official exam item.
0 of 50 answered. Your result shows each area against our study target.
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- Chapter 2: Medical Terminology: Our own questions on the topics of chapter 2, Medical Terminology, of the HSPA Sterile Processing Technical Manual, 9th edition.
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Quick answers
How many questions are on the CRCST exam?
150 multiple-choice questions: 125 scored and 25 unscored pretest questions that you cannot tell apart (HSPA Certification Handbook).
How long is the CRCST exam?
3 hours, after an optional 15-minute tutorial that does not count toward the test clock (HSPA).
What is the passing score for the CRCST?
HSPA reports pass or fail and does not publish a numeric passing score. The cut point is set with a criterion-referenced method.
How much does the CRCST exam cost?
The CRCST exam costs $140, and each retake also costs $140 (HSPA, checked October 2026).
Do I need experience to take the CRCST?
You need 400 hours of hands-on sterile processing experience: before testing for full certification, or within 6 months after passing for provisional certification.
How long do I have to take the exam after approval?
120 days to schedule and sit for the exam once HSPA approves your application.