Exam Comparison
VTNE vs CSFA
Comparing the VTNE Veterinary Technician National Examination and the NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA). Both fall under Allied Health & Medicine. Both are covered by the Allied Health Exam Prep app.
VTNE vs CSFA: At a Glance
| Detail | VTNE | CSFA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | VTNE Veterinary Technician National Examination | NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) |
| Governing Body | AAVSB | NBSTSA |
| Number of Questions | 170 | 175 |
| Time Limit | 3 hours | 4 hours |
| Passing Score | , | 99 of 150 scored items correct |
| Exam Fee | $375 USD | $240 AST member / $350 non-member |
| Category | Allied Health & Medicine | Allied Health & Medicine |
| C3RT App | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon | Allied Health Exam Prep Soon |
Content Areas Compared
VTNE Domains
- Pharmacy and Pharmacology(9%)
- Surgical Nursing(9%)
- Dentistry(6%)
- Laboratory Procedures(12%)
- Animal Care and Nursing(16%)
- Diagnostic Imaging(7%)
- Anesthesia and Analgesia(14%)
- Emergency Medicine and Critical Care(11%)
- Pain Management(6%)
- Exotic and Zoo Animal Medicine(10%)
CSFA Domains
- Preoperative Preparation
- Intraoperative First Assisting Techniques
- Postoperative Care and Wound Management
- Professional Issues and Ethics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between VTNE and CSFA?
The VTNE (VTNE Veterinary Technician National Examination) is administered by AAVSB and consists of 170 questions. The CSFA (NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA)) is administered by NBSTSA and consists of 175 questions. Both are Allied Health & Medicine credentials.
Can I take both the VTNE and the CSFA?
Yes, the VTNE and CSFA are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AAVSB and NBSTSA respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, VTNE or CSFA?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The VTNE is offered by AAVSB, while the CSFA is offered by NBSTSA with a passing score of 99 of 150 scored items correct. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the VTNE and the CSFA?
C3RT is building apps for both the VTNE and the CSFA. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The VTNE Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) is administered by AAVSB. The NBSTSA Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) is administered by NBSTSA. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.