CBET Surgical Equipment Technology 5

Question 1

A pneumatic tourniquet used in orthopedic surgery is displaying pressure that fluctuates ±30 mmHg during inflation. The MOST likely cause is:

Accepted Answer

Leak in the cuff bladder or connecting tubing

Answer

Pressure fluctuations in a pneumatic tourniquet are most commonly caused by air leaks in the cuff bladder or tubing connections.

Question 2

Which safety feature prevents inadvertent activation of an electrosurgical unit when the active electrode is not in use?

Accepted Answer

Holster with passive safety switch

Answer

A holster with a passive safety switch deactivates the active electrode output when placed in the holster, preventing accidental burns.

Question 3

During arthroscopic surgery, the fluid pump pressure is set to 60 mmHg but the surgeon reports poor visualization. What should the BMET check FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Integrity of the arthroscope sheath seals and outflow cannula patency

Answer

Leaking sheath seals or blocked outflow cannulas prevent adequate joint distension, causing poor visualization despite correct pump settings.

Question 4

What is the primary hazard associated with improper grounding of a surgical robot in the OR?

Accepted Answer

Leakage current could flow through the patient, causing burns or cardiac events

Answer

Improper grounding of electrically powered equipment in the OR can create leakage current paths through the patient, posing serious electrical safety risks.

Question 5

A harmonic scalpel generates heat through which mechanism?

Accepted Answer

Ultrasonic vibration causing molecular friction within tissue

Answer

Harmonic scalpels use ultrasonic vibration (typically 55,500 Hz) that causes rapid protein denaturation through molecular friction, achieving cutting and coagulation simultaneously.

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET - Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician Practice Test

CBET Surgical Equipment Technology 5