Surgical and Laboratory Assisting Flashcards

Which suture pattern is most commonly used to close the linea alba during an abdominal surgery in dogs?

Answer: Simple continuous

Simple continuous suture patterns are commonly used to close the linea alba because they provide a secure, leak-resistant seal efficiently.

What is the purpose of a fenestrated drape during surgery?

Answer: To expose only the surgical site while keeping the rest of the patient covered

A fenestrated drape has a central opening (fenestration) that exposes only the sterile surgical field while keeping the surrounding area covered.

Which laboratory test is used to evaluate how quickly a patient's blood clots?

Answer: Prothrombin time (PT)

Prothrombin time (PT) measures the extrinsic coagulation pathway and is used to assess clotting ability before surgery.

When preparing a sterile surgical pack, what temperature and time are typically used in a gravity displacement autoclave for a standard pack?

Answer: 250°F for 30 minutes

A standard gravity displacement autoclave cycle runs at 250°F (121°C) for 30 minutes to achieve sterilization of surgical packs.

Which organism is most commonly responsible for surgical site infections in veterinary patients?

Answer: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the most common cause of surgical site infections in dogs and cats.

Which of the following best describes the role of a Mayo stand in the operating room?

Answer: It provides a sterile surface for instruments used during surgery

A Mayo stand is a movable, height-adjustable table that provides a sterile field for instruments needed immediately during surgery.

What does a positive result on a urinary sediment examination indicating the presence of rod-shaped bacteria suggest?

Answer: Gram-negative bacterial urinary tract infection

Rod-shaped (bacilli) bacteria in urine sediment are typically gram-negative organisms and suggest a bacterial urinary tract infection requiring culture and sensitivity.