CST Intraoperative Procedures 5

Question 1

During a thyroidectomy, the surgeon asks for a nerve stimulator. Its PRIMARY intraoperative purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Identify and preserve the recurrent laryngeal nerve

Answer

A nerve stimulator (probe) delivers a small electrical current to identify the recurrent laryngeal nerve, preventing inadvertent injury that causes hoarseness.

Question 2

Which type of drain uses negative pressure to collect wound drainage postoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain

Answer

The Jackson-Pratt drain uses a compressible bulb reservoir that creates gentle continuous negative pressure to evacuate fluid from wound cavities.

Question 3

The ST should set up the back table with instruments in which order?

Accepted Answer

In the order they will most likely be used during the procedure

Answer

Back table organization by procedural sequence allows efficient instrument passing and reduces search time during critical surgical moments.

Question 4

A Bookwalter retractor system differs from a Balfour retractor in that the Bookwalter:

Accepted Answer

Attaches to the OR table rail and offers multiple interchangeable blade configurations

Answer

The Bookwalter system mounts to the OR table rail and accommodates a variety of interchangeable blades for complex, long retraction needs.

Question 5

During use of the harmonic scalpel (ultrasonic energy device), the ST should be aware that it generates heat up to approximately:

Accepted Answer

80°C

Answer

The harmonic scalpel blade reaches approximately 80°C during activation; the active blade must not contact tissue unintentionally to prevent burns.

(CST) Certified Surgical Technician Practice Test

(CST) Certified Surgical Technician Practice Test

CST Intraoperative Procedures 5