Basics Flashcards
7 cards from real Certified Surgical Technologist practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Basics flashcards as text
Which layer of the surgical drape is considered the sterile field boundary?
Answer: The top surface of the drape at table level and above
The sterile field includes the top surface of the drape at table level and above; anything below table level is considered contaminated.
When passing a scalpel to the surgeon, the surgical technologist should:
Answer: Place it in a neutral zone (basin or pad) to avoid direct hand-to-hand transfer
AORN recommends using a neutral zone (hands-free technique) when passing sharp instruments to reduce sharps injuries.
The term 'counts' in the OR refers to:
Answer: Reconciling sponges, sharps, and instruments before wound closure
Counts involve reconciling sponges, sharps, and instruments at specific intervals to prevent retained surgical items.
Which suture material is classified as absorbable?
Answer: Polyglycolic acid (Dexon)
Polyglycolic acid (Dexon) is a synthetic absorbable suture that is broken down by hydrolysis in body tissues.
The purpose of a Mayo stand in the OR is to:
Answer: Provide a sterile surface for frequently used instruments during surgery
The Mayo stand is positioned over or near the sterile field to hold instruments that the scrub tech hands to the surgeon most frequently.
Which action breaks sterile technique during a procedure?
Answer: Turning your back on the sterile field while gowned and gloved
A sterile gown is only sterile on the front from chest to table level and the sleeves; turning your back to the field creates an unmonitored contamination risk.
Electrosurgical unit (ESU) grounding pads should be placed:
Answer: On a well-vascularized, hair-free muscle mass close to the surgical site
The dispersive electrode (grounding pad) should be placed on a well-vascularized muscle mass, avoiding bony prominences, scar tissue, and metal implants.