CSFA Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia 4

Question 1

Which intravenous anesthetic agent is preferred for patients with a history of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) due to its antiemetic properties?

Accepted Answer

Propofol

Answer

Propofol has intrinsic antiemetic properties and is associated with lower rates of PONV compared to other induction agents and volatile anesthetics.

Question 2

Ondansetron is frequently used perioperatively to prevent PONV. Its mechanism of action involves blocking which receptor?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin 5-HT3

Answer

Ondansetron is a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist that blocks serotonin-mediated signals in the chemoreceptor trigger zone and GI tract.

Question 3

The CSFA notices the surgical field is oozing excessively. The surgeon requests topical thrombin. Which statement about topical thrombin is CORRECT?

Accepted Answer

It converts fibrinogen to fibrin at the surgical site

Answer

Topical thrombin converts fibrinogen to fibrin locally, promoting clot formation at the site of bleeding; it must never be injected intravascularly.

Question 4

Which benzodiazepine is most commonly used for preoperative anxiolysis and procedural sedation due to its short duration and amnestic properties?

Accepted Answer

Midazolam

Answer

Midazolam is preferred for perioperative use because of its short half-life, reliable anxiolysis, and potent anterograde amnesia.

Question 5

A patient with known renal failure requires a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocker. Which agent is SAFEST because it undergoes Hofmann elimination (non-organ-dependent degradation)?

Accepted Answer

Cisatracurium

Answer

Cisatracurium undergoes Hofmann elimination (spontaneous degradation at physiological pH and temperature), making it safe in renal or hepatic failure.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Surgical Pharmacology and Anesthesia 4