CSFA Surgical Positioning and Draping

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of surgical positioning?

Accepted Answer

To provide optimal access to the surgical site while protecting the patient

Answer

Surgical positioning provides optimal exposure of the operative site while protecting the patient from injury such as nerve damage and pressure sores.

Question 2

Which surgical position places the patient flat on their back?

Accepted Answer

Supine

Answer

The supine (dorsal recumbent) position has the patient lying flat on their back and is the most common surgical position used.

Question 3

In the lithotomy position, the patient's legs are placed in stirrups primarily to expose which surgical area?

Accepted Answer

Perineum and lower abdomen

Answer

The lithotomy position provides access to the perineal and lower abdominal areas and is commonly used for gynecological, urological, and colorectal procedures.

Question 4

Which nerve is most at risk for compression injury in the lithotomy position due to prolonged hip flexion and external rotation?

Accepted Answer

Common peroneal nerve

Answer

The common peroneal nerve, which wraps superficially around the fibular head, is highly susceptible to compression when the legs are in stirrups.

Question 5

The Trendelenburg position is characterized by which table tilt?

Accepted Answer

Head lowered and feet elevated

Answer

In the Trendelenburg position, the table is tilted so the head is lower than the feet, shifting abdominal organs cephalad to improve pelvic access.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Surgical Positioning and Draping