CST Postoperative Duties 3

Question 1

A needle is discovered missing during the closing needle count. What is the FIRST action the scrub ST should take?

Accepted Answer

Inform the surgeon and circulator immediately and search the sterile field

Answer

An unresolved needle count discrepancy must be reported immediately so the surgical team can search the field and wound before closure is completed.

Question 2

Which postoperative task is the scrub ST responsible for regarding sharps disposal?

Accepted Answer

Placing all sharps in an approved puncture-resistant sharps container

Answer

All sharps must be disposed of in approved puncture-resistant containers to comply with OSHA bloodborne pathogen standards.

Question 3

What is the correct order of postoperative counts for a laparotomy?

Accepted Answer

Sharps, sponges, instruments — performed before closing each layer

Answer

Sharps, sponges, and instruments are counted before closing each anatomical layer per AORN guidelines to ensure nothing is retained.

Question 4

After a postoperative case, the scrub ST notices a suture needle is unaccounted for. An X-ray is taken and the needle is NOT visible. What is the appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Document the incident and complete an occurrence report per facility policy

Answer

An unresolved count discrepancy requires an occurrence/incident report and full documentation regardless of X-ray results.

Question 5

Which of the following is the scrub ST's role during dressing application?

Accepted Answer

Pass dressing materials to the surgeon in the correct order while maintaining sterility

Answer

The scrub ST passes sterile dressing materials (e.g., telfa, gauze, tape) to the surgeon in the correct sequence while maintaining sterile technique.

(CST) Certified Surgical Technician Practice Test

(CST) Certified Surgical Technician Practice Test

CST Postoperative Duties 3