CVA Surgical and Exam Procedures 4

Question 1

During a physical exam, a veterinary assistant notices a patient's mucous membranes are pale and tacky. What does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Dehydration or poor perfusion

Answer

Pale, tacky mucous membranes are classic signs of dehydration or inadequate tissue perfusion.

Question 2

Which knot is most commonly used to tie off suture in veterinary surgery due to its security?

Accepted Answer

Square knot

Answer

The square knot is the standard surgical knot because it lies flat and is less likely to loosen than a granny knot.

Question 3

A dog is recovering from anesthesia and begins paddling its legs and vocalizing. What is the most appropriate initial response?

Accepted Answer

Keep the patient calm, padded, and notify the veterinarian

Answer

Dysphoric or excitatory recovery requires gentle restraint, padding to prevent injury, and immediate veterinarian notification.

Question 4

When preparing a surgical site, in what direction should you clip and scrub the skin?

Accepted Answer

From the incision site outward in a circular motion

Answer

Surgical scrubbing moves from the clean center outward to avoid introducing contaminants to the incision site.

Question 5

Which of the following is the correct capillary refill time (CRT) in a healthy dog or cat?

Accepted Answer

1–2 seconds

Answer

A normal CRT is 1–2 seconds; prolonged CRT suggests poor perfusion or cardiovascular compromise.

(CVA) Certified Veterinary Assistant Practice Test