NBSTSA Surgical Patient Positioning

Question 1

Which surgical position places the patient flat on their back with arms extended on armboards no greater than 90 degrees?

Accepted Answer

Supine

Answer

Prone

Answer

Lateral

Answer

Lithotomy

Question 2

A patient is positioned in lithotomy for a vaginal hysterectomy. Which complication is the surgical technologist most concerned about preventing?

Accepted Answer

Compartment syndrome of the lower extremities

Answer

Corneal abrasion

Answer

Pressure ulcer on the occiput

Answer

Brachial plexus injury

Question 3

When positioning a patient in the lateral position for a thoracotomy, what device is placed beneath the chest wall just below the dependent axilla?

Accepted Answer

Axillary roll

Answer

Donut headrest

Answer

Kidney rest

Answer

Safety strap

Question 4

Which position is most commonly used for procedures on the posterior spine and posterior thorax?

Accepted Answer

Prone

Answer

Supine

Answer

Lithotomy

Answer

Reverse Trendelenburg

Question 5

Trendelenburg position (head-down tilt) is most commonly indicated for which type of procedure?

Accepted Answer

Pelvic laparoscopy

Answer

Thyroidectomy

Answer

Craniotomy

Answer

Shoulder arthroscopy

Question 6

When transferring a patient from lithotomy back to supine, both legs must be lowered simultaneously. What is the primary reason for this requirement?

Accepted Answer

To avoid sudden hemodynamic instability

Answer

To prevent pressure on the sacrum

Answer

To prevent tangling of IV tubing

Answer

To maintain the sterile drape