CST Patient Care & Safety 3

Question 1

Which type of fire extinguisher is recommended for use on an OR fire involving electrical equipment?

Accepted Answer

Class C (CO2 or dry chemical)

Answer

Class C extinguishers use CO2 or dry chemical agents that are non-conductive, making them safe for electrical fires in the OR.

Question 2

A patient is transferred to the OR table and the safety strap is applied. Where is the strap correctly placed?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 2 inches above the knees

Answer

The safety strap is placed approximately 2 inches above the knees to secure the patient without restricting circulation or causing pressure injury.

Question 3

When counting instruments, sponges, and sharps at the close of a procedure, who is responsible for initiating and documenting the final count?

Accepted Answer

Scrub technologist and circulating nurse

Answer

The scrub technologist and circulating nurse both participate in and are accountable for all counts, which must be documented by the circulator.

Question 4

What does the term 'wrong-site surgery' most commonly involve?

Accepted Answer

Performing surgery on the wrong patient, wrong side, or wrong level

Answer

Wrong-site surgery encompasses operating on the wrong patient, wrong anatomic side, or wrong spinal level — all preventable by the Universal Protocol.

Question 5

Which action by the surgical technologist helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in surgical patients?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring sequential compression devices (SCDs) are applied before induction

Answer

SCDs applied before anesthesia induction promote venous return and reduce DVT risk by mechanically compressing the lower extremities.

(CST) Certified Surgery Technician Practice Test

(CST) Certified Surgery Technician Practice Test

CST Patient Care & Safety 3