NBSTSA Anatomy & Physiology for Surgical Technology 2

Question 1

Which heart valve is located between the left atrium and left ventricle?

Accepted Answer

Mitral (bicuspid) valve

Answer

The mitral (bicuspid) valve is positioned between the left atrium and left ventricle, controlling blood flow from the pulmonary veins to the systemic circulation.

Question 2

During a radical mastectomy, which nerve, if damaged, causes 'winged scapula'?

Accepted Answer

Long thoracic nerve

Answer

The long thoracic nerve innervates the serratus anterior muscle; its injury causes the medial border of the scapula to protrude (winged scapula).

Question 3

The ureter crosses which structure at the pelvic brim that surgeons must identify during pelvic dissection?

Accepted Answer

Internal iliac artery bifurcation

Answer

The ureter crosses the bifurcation of the common iliac artery (becoming internal and external iliac arteries) at the pelvic brim — a key landmark to prevent ureteral injury.

Question 4

Which anatomical space is accessed during a total hip replacement (posterior approach) after splitting the gluteus maximus?

Accepted Answer

Short external rotators and posterior hip capsule

Answer

The posterior hip approach involves splitting the gluteus maximus and dividing the short external rotators (piriformis, obturator internus, gemelli) to access the posterior hip capsule.

Question 5

Which cranial nerve is responsible for facial expression and is at risk during parotidectomy?

Accepted Answer

Cranial nerve VII (facial)

Answer

The facial nerve (CN VII) courses through the parotid gland and controls facial expression muscles; its branches are identified and preserved during parotidectomy.

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

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

NBSTSA Anatomy & Physiology for Surgical Technology 2