NBSTSA Surgical Pharmacology & Anesthesia 2

Question 1

Which type of anesthesia involves injection of anesthetic into the subarachnoid space?

Accepted Answer

Spinal anesthesia

Answer

Spinal anesthesia (intrathecal anesthesia) involves injection of local anesthetic directly into the subarachnoid space where cerebrospinal fluid is present.

Question 2

Which neuromuscular blocking agent is depolarizing and has the fastest onset?

Accepted Answer

Succinylcholine

Answer

Succinylcholine is the only depolarizing neuromuscular blocker in clinical use, with the fastest onset (60 seconds) and shortest duration, ideal for rapid sequence intubation.

Question 3

The surgical technologist notices heparin and thrombin are both on the sterile back table. The greatest risk is:

Accepted Answer

Accidental IV injection of thrombin causing systemic coagulation

Answer

Thrombin must never be injected intravenously as it causes widespread intravascular coagulation and death; it is only for topical hemostatic use.

Question 4

Which irrigation solution, if absorbed in large quantities during TURP procedures, can cause hyponatremia and TUR syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Glycine 1.5%

Answer

Glycine 1.5% is a non-electrolyte hypotonic irrigant used in TURP; absorption of large volumes can cause dilutional hyponatremia and TUR syndrome.

Question 5

Protamine sulfate is administered intraoperatively to:

Accepted Answer

Reverse the effects of heparin

Answer

Protamine sulfate is the specific reversal agent for heparin anticoagulation, forming an inactive complex with heparin molecules.

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

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

NBSTSA Surgical Pharmacology & Anesthesia 2