Certified Surgical Technologist MCQ 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 Certified Surgical Technologist MCQ flashcards as text
Which instrument is specifically used to clamp and divide the cystic duct during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
Answer: Hem-o-lok clip applier
Hem-o-lok polymer clips are applied to the cystic duct and cystic artery with a clip applier before division during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
A patient with a documented latex allergy is scheduled for surgery. Which glove material should the surgical team use?
Answer: Neoprene or nitrile synthetic gloves
Neoprene or nitrile synthetic gloves are the appropriate latex-free alternative for patients and staff with latex allergies.
During a total knee arthroplasty, the surgeon uses a pneumatic tourniquet. What is the maximum recommended inflation time to prevent ischemic injury?
Answer: 90 minutes
Pneumatic tourniquet inflation is generally limited to 90 minutes to reduce the risk of ischemia, nerve damage, and compartment syndrome.
Which electrosurgical mode cuts tissue with minimal hemostasis by using a continuous high-frequency current?
Answer: Pure cut
Pure cut mode delivers a continuous waveform that vaporizes tissue rapidly with little lateral thermal spread, providing minimal hemostasis.
When counting sponges at the end of a case and the count is incorrect, what is the FIRST action the surgical technologist should take?
Answer: Notify the surgeon immediately
The surgeon must be notified immediately of an incorrect count so wound closure can be halted and a search initiated.
Which nerve is at greatest risk during a thyroidectomy and must be identified and preserved?
Answer: Recurrent laryngeal nerve
The recurrent laryngeal nerve runs in the tracheoesophageal groove near the thyroid and controls vocal cord movement; injury causes hoarseness or voice loss.
What is the purpose of the 'time-out' performed immediately before a surgical incision?
Answer: To verify patient identity, procedure, site, and antibiotic administration
The surgical time-out is a WHO safety checklist step that actively confirms correct patient, correct procedure, correct site, and antibiotic prophylaxis before incision.