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

The supine (dorsal recumbent) position places the patient flat on the back. Arms must not be extended beyond 90 degrees to prevent brachial plexus stretch injury. It is the most common surgical position.

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

In lithotomy, legs are elevated in stirrups. Prolonged elevation can reduce blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to compartment syndrome — a potentially limb-threatening complication unique to this position. Both legs must be raised and lowered simultaneously.

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

An axillary roll is placed under the chest wall just inferior to the dependent axilla (NOT inside it) to shift body weight off the arm and prevent compression of the brachial plexus and axillary vessels of the down-side arm.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Prone

Answer

The prone position (patient lying face down) provides direct posterior access, making it the standard position for laminectomies, posterior spinal fusions, and posterior thoracic procedures. Chest rolls or a Wilson frame are used to support the body.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Pelvic laparoscopy

Answer

Trendelenburg causes abdominal viscera to shift superiorly away from the pelvis, improving visualization of pelvic structures. It is routinely used for laparoscopic pelvic procedures such as hysterectomy, myomectomy, and tubal ligation.

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

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

NBSTSA Surgical Patient Positioning