Intraoperative Procedures 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 Intraoperative Procedures flashcards as text
When using the Bovie electrosurgical unit, the dispersive electrode (grounding pad) should be placed:
Answer: On a well-vascularized muscle mass as close to the operative site as possible
The dispersive electrode must be placed on a well-vascularized muscle mass close to the operative site to ensure safe current return and prevent burns.
During a laparoscopic procedure, CO2 insufflation is used primarily to:
Answer: Create pneumoperitoneum for visualization and instrument access
CO2 insufflation creates pneumoperitoneum, expanding the abdominal cavity to allow visualization and manipulation of organs during laparoscopic surgery.
The scrub technologist notices the surgeon has perforated the bowel during dissection. The FIRST priority is to:
Answer: Notify the circulator and contain contamination with wet sponges
Containing contamination by isolating the perforated bowel with wet sponges and alerting the circulator is the immediate priority to prevent further peritoneal soiling.
Which suture material is MOST appropriate for closing fascia in abdominal procedures?
Answer: Polypropylene (Prolene)
Polypropylene is a non-absorbable monofilament suture ideal for fascial closure because it maintains tensile strength permanently and resists infection.
When performing a sponge count, the scrub tech and circulator discover a discrepancy. The surgeon should be notified BEFORE:
Answer: Wound closure begins
The surgeon must be notified of any sponge count discrepancy before wound closure begins so the wound can be thoroughly explored.
During a total hip arthroplasty, the scrub tech should have pulse lavage irrigation ready primarily to:
Answer: Remove bone debris and reduce infection risk in the bone cavity
Pulse lavage removes bone debris, fat, and marrow elements from the medullary canal, reducing infection risk and improving cement or press-fit fixation.
A Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain is classified as which type of drainage system?
Answer: Active closed-suction drain
The Jackson-Pratt is an active closed-suction drain that uses negative pressure from a compressed bulb reservoir to remove fluid from the wound.