CST Postoperative Duties 2

Question 1

After the final sponge count is confirmed correct, what is the surgical technologist's next priority before closing?

Accepted Answer

Document the count and inform the surgeon

Answer

The ST must document the correct count and verbally inform the surgeon so the incision can be safely closed.

Question 2

Which action is correct when handling a contaminated surgical specimen postoperatively?

Accepted Answer

Place it in a labeled specimen container per facility protocol

Answer

Specimens must be placed in properly labeled containers per institutional and pathology protocols to ensure accurate identification.

Question 3

During wound closure, the scrub ST should pass suture using which technique?

Accepted Answer

Load the needle holder and pass handle-first to the surgeon

Answer

Suture should be loaded on a needle holder and passed handle-first (or in a neutral zone) to minimize needlestick injury risk.

Question 4

What is the purpose of applying a sterile dressing at the end of a procedure?

Accepted Answer

Protect the wound from contamination and absorb drainage

Answer

A sterile dressing protects the surgical wound from environmental contamination and absorbs any drainage from the incision.

Question 5

When removing surgical drapes postoperatively, the ST should roll them:

Accepted Answer

Inward (contaminated side in) to contain debris and fluids

Answer

Drapes are rolled inward to contain blood, fluids, and debris and prevent spreading contamination to the OR environment.

(CST) Certified Surgical Technician Practice Test