CFA Surgical Positioning & Draping

Question 1

Which surgical position places the patient supine with the head lower than the feet?

Accepted Answer

Trendelenburg

Answer

Trendelenburg position places the patient supine with the head lower than the feet, commonly used to improve surgical access to pelvic organs by allowing gravity to shift viscera cephalad.

Question 2

The axillary roll used during lateral decubitus positioning is placed to prevent injury to which structure?

Accepted Answer

Brachial plexus

Answer

The axillary roll is positioned under the thorax distal to the axilla to relieve pressure on the brachial plexus of the dependent arm, preventing neuropraxia.

Question 3

Which position provides optimal surgical access to the posterior skull and spine structures?

Accepted Answer

Prone

Answer

The prone position allows the surgeon to access posterior structures of the skull and spine, as the patient lies face-down exposing the dorsal surface.

Question 4

When draping the surgical site, sterile gloves must not drop below which boundary to maintain sterility?

Accepted Answer

The level of the OR table

Answer

The OR table surface is considered the lower boundary of the sterile field; gloved hands or instruments that fall below table level are considered contaminated.

Question 5

Which padding device is most effective for protecting heels and preventing pressure injuries during prolonged supine positioning?

Accepted Answer

Gel heel protectors

Answer

Gel heel protectors conform to the heel's contours and distribute pressure away from bony prominences, reducing pressure injury risk during lengthy procedures.

CFA Practice Test

CFA Practice Test

CFA Surgical Positioning & Draping