Free NBSTSA General Surgery Questions and Answers

Question 1

When giving towels to a surgeon to square off an incision site, where should the first scrub surgical technologist stand?

Accepted Answer

same side as surgeon

Answer

When assisting the surgeon with draping, specifically when squaring off an incision site with towels, the first scrub surgical technologist should stand on the same side as the surgeon. This positioning facilitates efficient and sterile transfer of instruments and drapes, maintaining the sterile field and promoting smooth teamwork. It allows the technologist to anticipate the surgeon's needs and pass items directly.

Question 2

What surgical posture allows for the best pelvis or lower abdomen visibility?

Accepted Answer

trendelenburg

Answer

The Trendelenburg position involves placing the patient on their back with the head lower than the feet, tilting the entire operating table. This position uses gravity to shift the abdominal organs superiorly (towards the head). This displacement provides excellent exposure and visibility of the pelvic and lower abdominal regions, making it ideal for gynecological, urological, and lower abdominal surgeries.

Question 3

The tympanic membrane is sometimes known as the?

Accepted Answer

eardrum

Answer

The tympanic membrane is a thin, cone-shaped membrane that forms the boundary between the external ear and the middle ear. It is commonly known as the eardrum. Its primary function is to vibrate when struck by sound waves, transmitting these vibrations to the ossicles in the middle ear, which is a crucial step in the process of hearing.

Question 4

What is the name of the urinary catheter used on patients with urethral strictures that has a narrow, curved, tapered tip?

Accepted Answer

coude

Answer

A coudé catheter is a type of urinary catheter distinguished by its curved, tapered tip. This specific design makes it particularly useful for navigating past obstructions in the urethra, such as an enlarged prostate or urethral strictures. The curved tip helps the catheter slide more smoothly through constricted areas, reducing trauma and facilitating successful catheterization.

Question 5

What bacteria can survive without oxygen?

Accepted Answer

anaerobes

Answer

Anaerobes are microorganisms, typically bacteria, that are capable of growing and thriving in environments completely devoid of oxygen. Unlike aerobes, which require oxygen for respiration, anaerobes utilize other molecules as electron acceptors for their metabolic processes. Some anaerobes are even harmed or killed by the presence of oxygen.

NBSTSA - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Practice Test

NBSTSA - National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting Practice Test

Free NBSTSA General Surgery Questions and Answers