Random 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 Random flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a retractor during surgery?
Answer: To expose and maintain the operative field
Retractors hold back tissue and organs to provide the surgeon with adequate visualization and access to the operative site.
A sterile surgical technologist reaches across an unsterile area to retrieve an instrument. This action is:
Answer: A break in sterile technique
Reaching across an unsterile area risks contamination of the sterile gown and gloves, constituting a break in sterile technique.
Which instrument is used to grasp and hold tissue during surgery without crushing it?
Answer: Babcock forceps
Babcock forceps have atraumatic, non-toothed jaws designed to grasp delicate structures like the bowel without crushing.
During a surgical count, a discrepancy is found. The correct sequence of actions is to:
Answer: Inform the surgeon immediately and search the wound before closing
An immediate count discrepancy requires notifying the surgeon so the wound can be searched before closure to prevent a retained surgical item.
The term 'anastomosis' in surgical practice refers to:
Answer: Connection of two tubular structures
Anastomosis is the surgical joining of two hollow structures, such as bowel segments or blood vessels, to restore continuity.
Which position places the patient flat on their back with arms extended on armboards?
Answer: Supine
The supine position is the standard flat-on-the-back position used for most abdominal, thoracic, and extremity procedures.
Which sterilization method is most appropriate for heat-sensitive instruments such as fiber-optic scopes?
Answer: Ethylene oxide (EO) gas
Ethylene oxide gas sterilizes at low temperatures, making it safe for heat-sensitive items like endoscopes and fiber-optic instruments.