NBSTSA Sterile Technique & Asepsis 5

Question 1

Which method of sterilization is most appropriate for heat-sensitive laparoscopic camera systems?

Accepted Answer

Ethylene oxide (EO) gas sterilization

Answer

Ethylene oxide gas sterilization operates at low temperatures and is the preferred method for heat-sensitive endoscopic and electronic equipment.

Question 2

A sterile field has been set up for a case scheduled in 30 minutes, but the case is now delayed 4 hours. What should the scrub do?

Accepted Answer

Tear down the sterile field and re-set when the case is imminent

Answer

Sterile fields should not be left unattended for extended periods; the field should be torn down and a new one established when the case is ready to proceed.

Question 3

When is it acceptable to reach across an unsterile area to retrieve an item on the opposite side of the sterile field?

Accepted Answer

Never; the scrub must walk around the sterile field

Answer

Scrubbed personnel must never reach across an unsterile area because their unsterile back and sides could contaminate the sterile field.

Question 4

Which of the following actions maintains the sterility of a suture packet being opened by the circulator onto the sterile field?

Accepted Answer

Peeling the packet open and presenting it to the scrub without reaching over the field

Answer

The circulator peels open the outer wrapper and presents the sterile inner contents to the scrub, who removes them without the circulator crossing the sterile boundary.

Question 5

A sterile team member must move past another sterile team member in a tight operative corridor. How should they pass?

Accepted Answer

One passes with back to the other's back

Answer

Sterile team members pass each other back-to-back to keep sterile surfaces (front of gown) from contacting unsterile back surfaces.

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

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

NBSTSA Sterile Technique & Asepsis 5