CFA Instrument Identification & Passing 2

Question 1

When passing a needle holder to the surgeon, the first assistant should present it:

Accepted Answer

In the closed, locked position with the needle loaded and tips pointing down

Answer

The needle holder is passed locked, loaded, and tips-down so the surgeon can immediately grasp it in proper working position.

Question 2

Which instrument is specifically designed to grasp delicate tissue without crushing?

Accepted Answer

DeBakey forceps

Answer

DeBakey forceps have fine, atraumatic serrations that grip tissue gently without causing crush injury.

Question 3

A Weitlaner retractor differs from a Gelpi retractor primarily in that it:

Accepted Answer

Has blunt rather than sharp prongs and a ratchet locking mechanism

Answer

The Weitlaner is a self-retaining retractor with a ratchet lock and typically has blunt prongs, while the Gelpi has sharp single prongs.

Question 4

The correct technique for passing a scalpel to the surgeon is:

Accepted Answer

Handle-first in the neutral zone or by passing handle-first directly

Answer

AORN safety guidelines require scalpels to be passed handle-first or via a neutral/hands-free zone to prevent sharps injuries.

Question 5

A Metzenbaum scissors is most appropriately used for:

Accepted Answer

Dissecting delicate tissue and cutting fine structures

Answer

Metzenbaum scissors have long, slender blades ideal for fine tissue dissection rather than cutting suture or heavy material.

CFA Practice Test