NBSTSA Preoperative & Postoperative Patient Care 2

Question 1

Which laboratory value is most important to review preoperatively to assess a patient's oxygenation capacity and anemia risk?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin and hematocrit

Answer

Hemoglobin and hematocrit values reflect the patient's red blood cell mass and oxygen-carrying capacity, which is critical for safe anesthesia and surgical blood loss tolerance.

Question 2

The Universal Protocol for preventing wrong-site surgery requires a time-out to be performed at what point?

Accepted Answer

Immediately before the skin incision

Answer

The Universal Protocol requires a time-out immediately before the skin incision, when all team members verbally confirm patient identity, procedure, site, and any special equipment needs.

Question 3

Which patient position is used for procedures involving the lower abdomen and pelvis, placing the patient flat with legs elevated and abducted?

Accepted Answer

Lithotomy position

Answer

The lithotomy position places the patient supine with legs elevated, abducted, and supported in stirrups, providing optimal access to the perineum, vagina, rectum, and lower pelvis.

Question 4

A patient in the PACU is experiencing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Which factor in the patient's history most increases PONV risk?

Accepted Answer

History of motion sickness

Answer

A personal history of motion sickness or previous PONV is one of the strongest independent risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting.

Question 5

When positioning a patient in the Trendelenburg position, what is the primary physiological concern the surgical team must monitor?

Accepted Answer

Increased intracranial pressure

Answer

Trendelenburg position (head-down tilt) causes blood to shift toward the head, increasing intracranial and intraocular pressure, which is especially dangerous for patients with head injury or glaucoma.

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

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

NBSTSA Preoperative & Postoperative Patient Care 2