CST Perioperative Patient Advocacy 2

Question 1

A patient tells the scrub tech just before induction that she has not signed the consent form for the planned bilateral procedure, only for the unilateral procedure. What is the most appropriate action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the circulator and surgeon immediately to halt the procedure

Answer

The scrub tech must immediately notify the circulator and surgeon so the consent issue is resolved before any incision is made.

Question 2

During the surgical time-out, the circulator reads a different operative site than what is marked on the patient. The surgeon says 'we've done this a hundred times, let's go.' What should the surgical technologist do?

Accepted Answer

Speak up and insist the discrepancy be resolved before proceeding

Answer

Every team member has the authority and responsibility to stop the procedure until a site discrepancy is resolved, regardless of the surgeon's preference.

Question 3

A patient's advance directive states 'Do Not Resuscitate.' The anesthesiologist proposes a routine suspension of the DNR during the operative period. Who bears primary responsibility for ensuring this discussion occurs pre-operatively with the patient?

Accepted Answer

The surgeon and anesthesiologist in collaboration with the patient

Answer

The surgeon and anesthesiologist must collaboratively discuss with the patient whether to suspend, modify, or honor the DNR during the perioperative period.

Question 4

While setting up the back table, the scrub tech notices the patient's allergy wristband indicates a latex allergy, but the surgeon's preference card does not specify a latex-free setup. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the circulator immediately and switch to a latex-free environment

Answer

A documented latex allergy requires an immediate latex-safe environment; the scrub tech must notify the circulator before any latex items contact the patient's care environment.

Question 5

A family member approaches the scrub tech in the hallway and asks for an update on their relative's surgery. What is the appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Direct the family member to the waiting room liaison or charge nurse

Answer

The scrub tech should redirect family members to the designated waiting room liaison or circulating nurse who is authorized to provide updates while maintaining HIPAA compliance.

(CST) Certified Surgery Technician Practice Test

(CST) Certified Surgery Technician Practice Test

CST Perioperative Patient Advocacy 2