Certified Surgical Technologist Intraoperative Procedures 5

Question 1

During a laparotomy, the scrub tech is asked to load a TA stapler. The TA stapler is used to:

Accepted Answer

Apply a double row of staples across tissue WITHOUT cutting

Answer

The TA (thoracoabdominal) stapler applies two staggered rows of staples across tissue without a built-in cutting blade, requiring the surgeon to cut separately.

Question 2

When a surgeon requests a 'figure-of-eight' suture pattern, the primary purpose is:

Accepted Answer

To provide additional strength and distribute tension at high-stress closure sites

Answer

A figure-of-eight suture distributes tension across a wider tissue area, providing reinforced closure at high-stress sites such as fascia or tendon repair.

Question 3

A Foley catheter is inserted preoperatively in surgical patients primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Monitor urinary output and decompress the bladder to prevent injury

Answer

Foley catheter insertion allows continuous urine output monitoring as a perfusion indicator and keeps the bladder decompressed to prevent accidental cystotomy.

Question 4

Which instrument is used to hold a needle securely for suturing deep in a cavity?

Accepted Answer

Heaney needle holder

Answer

The Heaney needle holder has a curved jaw designed specifically for suturing in deep pelvic and vaginal cavities where straight instruments cannot reach effectively.

Question 5

During a vascular anastomosis, the surgeon requests heparinized saline irrigation. The purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Prevent thrombus formation in the vessel lumen during anastomosis

Answer

Heparinized saline flushes the vessel lumen to prevent clot formation in the stagnant blood column while the anastomosis is being constructed.

Certified Surgical Technologist Practice Test

Certified Surgical Technologist Practice Test

Certified Surgical Technologist Intraoperative Procedures 5