Certified Surgical Technologist Preoperative Care and Preparation 3

Question 1

Which patient position is most appropriate for a patient undergoing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy?

Accepted Answer

Supine with reverse Trendelenburg and left lateral tilt

Answer

Reverse Trendelenburg with left lateral tilt shifts abdominal organs away from the operative field, improving visualization of the gallbladder during laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Question 2

When preparing a patient for surgery with a known Foley catheter in place, what must the surgical technologist verify?

Accepted Answer

That the catheter is patent and draining freely before positioning

Answer

Verifying catheter patency and free drainage before positioning prevents bladder distention, which can complicate surgery and harm the patient.

Question 3

A patient scheduled for a total knee arthroplasty asks if a tourniquet will be used. What is the surgical technologist's best response?

Accepted Answer

That decision is made by the surgeon and you can ask them directly

Answer

Surgical technologists should direct clinical questions about surgical decisions to the surgeon, who will discuss tourniquet use as part of informed consent.

Question 4

Which preoperative medication is routinely administered to reduce the risk of surgical site infection?

Accepted Answer

Prophylactic antibiotic within 60 minutes of incision

Answer

Prophylactic antibiotics administered within 60 minutes before incision (120 minutes for vancomycin/fluoroquinolones) achieve optimal tissue concentration to prevent SSI.

Question 5

What is the primary reason hair removal at the surgical site should be done with clippers rather than a razor?

Accepted Answer

Razors create micro-abrasions that increase infection risk

Answer

Razors create small skin cuts that harbor bacteria and increase surgical site infection rates, making clippers the recommended method per evidence-based guidelines.

Certified Surgical Technologist Practice Test

Certified Surgical Technologist Practice Test

Certified Surgical Technologist Preoperative Care and Preparation 3