CFA Professionalism, Ethics & Legal Considerations 3

Question 1

The national certifying body specifically responsible for credentialing surgical technologists and surgical first assistants in the US is:

Accepted Answer

NBSTSA

Answer

The National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) administers the CST and CSFA credentials for surgical technologists and surgical first assistants.

Question 2

Which document legally authorizes a surrogate to make healthcare decisions for an incapacitated patient?

Accepted Answer

Durable power of attorney for healthcare

Answer

A durable power of attorney for healthcare (healthcare proxy) designates a specific person to make medical decisions when the patient lacks decision-making capacity.

Question 3

Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, liability for a first assistant's negligent acts during surgery may extend to:

Accepted Answer

The hospital and/or supervising physician

Answer

Respondeat superior ('let the master answer') holds employers and supervising physicians vicariously liable for employees' and agents' negligent acts performed within the scope of their duties.

Question 4

A first assistant is asked by a pharmaceutical representative to promote a specific surgical device to surgeons in exchange for gifts. This situation represents a potential:

Accepted Answer

Conflict of interest and ethical violation

Answer

Accepting gifts in exchange for promoting products creates a conflict of interest that compromises professional objectivity and violates most healthcare ethics codes.

Question 5

Which element is NOT required to establish negligence in a malpractice claim against a first assistant?

Accepted Answer

Proof of malicious intent

Answer

Negligence requires duty, breach, causation, and damages — malicious intent is not required; negligence can occur through carelessness or omission without intent to harm.

CFA Practice Test

CFA Practice Test

CFA Professionalism, Ethics & Legal Considerations 3