CST Practice Exam A – Flashcards
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Which of the following is the opening in the occipital bone through which the spinal cord passes? A. foramen ovale B. foramen magnum C. foramen rotundum D. foramen of Bochdalek
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B. foramen magnum
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Sterile supplies and instruments for a case have been opened in OR 1. A surgical technologist was just informed that the case has been moved to OR 2 and the next case in OR 1 is scheduled in two hours. Which of the following is the BEST course of action? A. Cover the sterile field with a sterile drape and move it from OR 1 to OR 2. B. New sterile supplies and instruments should be obtained for OR 2 and the setup in OR 1 should be disposed of. C. OR 1 should be left so that these supplies and instruments can be used by the next case. D. The surgical technologist should argue that the procedure be held in OR 1 as planned.
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B. New sterile supplies and instruments should be obtained for OR 2 and the setup in OR 1 should be disposed of.
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Which of the following is the body's local tissue reaction to injury? A. fever B. infection C. inflammation D. immune reaction
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C. inflammation
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Which of the following instruments is used for a common bile duct exploration? A. Fogarty clamp B. Randall forceps C. Pennington clamp D. Forester ring forceps
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B. Randall forceps
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Which of the following is the MOST important consideration when cutting suture? A. avoiding the knot B. using sharp scissors C.opening the scissors wide when cutting D. tagging the end of suture to be cut with a hemostat
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A. avoiding the knot
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Which of the following structures are ligated and divided during the cholecystectomy? A.cystic artery and cystic duct B.hepatic artery and hepatic duct C. cystic artery and common bile duct D. hepatic artery and pancreatic duct
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A.cystic artery and cystic duct
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Which of the following may be used when applying a sterile dressing to a skin graft site? A. pressure dressing B. ABD pad C. 4x4s D. Steri-Strips
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A. pressure dressing
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When performing a dilation and curettage, which of the following instruments is used to grasp the cervix? A. Sims B. Auvard C. Schroeder D. Bozeman
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C. Schroeder
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On the way into the operating room, a terminally ill patient tells the nurse, "No matter what happens, it will be okay." Which of the Five Stages of Grief is the patient MOST likely in? A. denial B. bargaining C. depression D. acceptance
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D. acceptance
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Which of the following instruments is used for placement of cottonoid strips during a craniotomy? A. bayonet forceps B. Russian forceps C. Kelly clamp D. angled DeBakey clamp
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A. bayonet forceps
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When two individuals in sterile attire pass one another in the sterile field, they should A. pass back-to-back. B. both face the wall. C. pass side-to-side. D. both face the sterile field.
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A. pass back-to-back.
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Which of the following is used to oxygenate and circulate blood? A. Doppler ultrasound B. defibrillator C. extracorporeal bypass D. autotransfuser
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C. extracorporeal bypass
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The PRIMARY consideration in selecting an appropriate anesthetic agent is the A. physiologic condition of the patient. B. length of the procedure. C. type of the procedure. D. anxiety level of the patient.
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A. physiologic condition of the patient.
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If two basins are wrapped together for sterilizing, they should be packaged with one basin A.stacked inside the other and separated by impervious material. B.on its side and the other upside down. C.stacked inside the other and wrapped in a towel. D.stacked inside the other and separated by a towel.
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D.stacked inside the other and separated by a towel.
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Which of the following items may be used in positioning a patient for a total hip arthroplasty? A. fracture table B. Wilson frame C. Andrews frame D. bean bag
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D. bean bag
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A surgical technologist sees a neighbor being admitted. How should the surgical technologist respond? A.Acknowledge the neighbor. B.Reassure the neighbor that everything will be fine. C.Do not acknowledge the neighbor unless greeted first. D.Ignore the neighbor, even if greeted.
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C. Do not acknowledge the neighbor unless greeted first
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Instruments that come in contact with the appendiceal stump during an appendectomy should be A.placed in a separate basin. B.wiped with a saline sponge. C.returned to the Mayo stand. D. wiped with an alcohol sponge.
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A.placed in a separate basin.
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Which of the following is the MOST serious complication of a strangulated hernia? A. shock B. necrosis C. infection D. hemorrhage
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B. necrosis
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Which of the following techniques is NOT acceptable for draping the patient? A.Hold the drapes high until directly over the patient. B.Protect the gloved hands by cuffing the drapes. C.Readjust the drapes as necessary after placement. D.Place the drapes on a dry area.
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C.Readjust the drapes as necessary after placement.
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Which of the following structures is separated first when a paramedian incision is performed? A. peritoneum B. transverse abdominis C. external oblique D. rectus abdominis
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D. rectus abdominis
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Which of the following is MOST likely to be used to stabilize a cervical fracture? A. Kirschner wire B. Hoffman device C. Steinmann pins D. Mayfield clamp
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D. Mayfield clamp
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During a transurethral resection of the prostate, bleeding is controlled by A. Gelfoam. B. irrigation. C. cauterization. D. suture ligature.
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C. cauterization.
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To prevent contamination at the end of a surgical procedure, which of the following should be removed LAST by the surgical technologist in the scrub role? A. patient's drapes B. surgical gloves C. surgical gown D. Mayo stand drape
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B. surgical gloves
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In order to remove a portion of the kidney, the surgeon must enter which of the following? A. synovial membrane B. Gerota's fascia C. Hesselbach's triangle D. suprapleural membrane
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B. Gerota's fascia
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Which of the following is the MOST common straight catheter used prior to laparoscopic gynecological surgery in the OR? A. Foley B. Pezzer C. Malecot D. Robinson
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D. Robinson
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A Stamey needle is used for which of the following types of surgery? A. hysterectomy B. prostatectomy C. bladder suspension D. anterior colporrhaphy
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C. bladder suspension
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Immediately before a hemorrhoidectomy, which of the following procedures might be performed on the patient in the operating room? A. cystoscopy B. culdoscopy C. sigmoidoscopy D. laparoscopy
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C. sigmoidoscopy
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Which of the following is a fenestrated drape? A. a drape with an opening that allows exposure of the operative site B. a split drape that has two tails C. a drape used to cover the operating table, instrument table, and body regions D. an incise drape that is self-adhering
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A. a drape with an opening that allows exposure of the operative site
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An appendectomy incision closed using suture is considered to be which of the following types of wound closure? A. primary intention B. secondary intention C. tertiary intention D. third intention
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A. primary intention
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Which of the following patients is MOST likely to acquire a nosocomial infection? A. a healthy female patient who is 45 years of age B. a female patient in labor and delivery C. a healthy male patient who is 45 years of age D. a male patient who has diabetes
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D. a male patient who has diabetes
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31 The appendiceal stump, when inverted, is held in place by which of the following types of suture? A. mattress B. traction C. interrupted D. purse-string
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D. purse-string
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Aerobic organisms are BEST characterized as A. pathogenic. B. nonpathogenic. C. oxygen-requiring. D. non-oxygen-requiring.
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C. oxygen-requiring.
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The PRIMARY purpose of chest tubes is to A. irrigate the pleural space. B. eliminate chest leaks. C. prevent pulmonary emboli. D. re-establish negative pressure.
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D. re-establish negative pressure.
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Which of the following is a surgical instrument designed for retracting? A. Potts B. Penfield C. Lowman D. Gelpi
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D. Gelpi
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Which of the following surgical procedures may be used to remove a carcinoma from the head of the pancreas? A. Heller B. Whipple C. Bankart D. Billroth I
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B. Whipple
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A sterile item used with an electrosurgical unit is the A. generator. B. patient return electrode. C. active electrode. D. foot pedal.
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C. active electrode
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What is the desired effect of atropine sulfate when used as a preoperative medication? A. drowsiness B. pain relief C. decreased anxiety D. drying of secretions
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D. drying of secretions
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A postoperative total arthroplasty patient presents to the emergency department with severe throbbing pain, fever, and malaise. Which of the following is the likely diagnosis? A. osteoarthritis B. osteoporosis C. osteomyelitis D. osteomalacia
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C. osteomyelitis
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Which of the following is used to stabilize a fractured finger? A. Rush rods B. Hagie pins C. Knowles pins D. Kirschner wires
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D. Kirschner wires
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Which of the following is the primary purpose for changing into operating room attire? A. to standardize uniforms B. to prevent the of spread of microorganisms C. to identify operating room personnel D. to avoid damage to personal attire
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B. to prevent the of spread of microorganisms
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A surgical technologist is assigned to a room where the patient happens to be his neighbor. To protect patient confidentiality, the technologist should indicate that he knows the patient and A. continue with the procedure. B. request to be removed from the room. C. discuss patient personal medical information. D. inform the surgeon.
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B. request to be removed from the room.
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Mannitol (Osmitrol) is used in neurosurgical procedures to A. prevent bleeding. B. decrease intracranial pressure. C. anesthetize the operative site. D. fight possible postoperative infection.
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B. decrease intracranial pressure.
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Which of the following lies between the lung and the chest wall? A. mediastinum B. peritoneum C. pleura D. pericardium
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C. pleura
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Which of the following is applied as a nonadherent dressing? A. adaptic B. collodion C. steri-strip D. elastoplast
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A. adaptic
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A Balfour is used in which of the following procedures? A. tracheostomy B. sigmoid resection C. pulmonary decortication D. stapedectomy
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B. sigmoid resection
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If the VII cranial nerve is severed, which of the following is the result? A. loss of hearing B. loss of vision C. facial paralysis D. impairment of eye muscles
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C. facial paralysis
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When assisting with the closure of a skin incision and operating the skin stapler, the surgical technologist in the scrub role is placing the staples through which two layers? A.cuticular and subcuticular B.subicular and subcutaneous C.subcuticular and subcutaneous D.subcutaneous and fascia
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A.cuticular and subcuticular
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During which of the following surgeries is a Meckel's diverticulum typically discovered? A. esophagectomy B. appendectomy C. prostatectomy D. varicocelectomy
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B. appendectomy
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Which of the following layers are transected when a subcostal flank incision is used for a nephrectomy? A. pre-peritoneal fat B. linea alba C. oblique muscles D. rectus abdominis muscle
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C. oblique muscles
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A perforator is used for which of the following procedures? A. cordotomy B. craniotomy C. laminectomy D. spinal fusion
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B. craniotomy
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In preparation for a cranial aneurysm, which of the following pieces of equipment would MOST likely be used? A. microscope B. cryoprobe C. Jordan Day drill D. Crutchfield tongs
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A. microscope
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During strabismus surgery, which of the following is the first tissue layer that must be incised? A. iris B. cornea C. sclera D. conjunctiva
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D. conjunctiva
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When can instrument counts be omitted? A. if an emergency procedure must be performed B. when the surgical technologist in the circulator role becomes too busy C. if instruments are needed in another operating room D. when the patient is receiving outpatient surgery
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A. if an emergency procedure must be performed
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In which of the following positions is a patient placed for a right nephrectomy? A. left lateral B. right lateral C. left lateral kidney D. right lateral kidney
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C. left lateral kidney
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Which of the following examples illustrates UNSAFE technique for disposing of contaminated sharps? A. Used suture needles and scalpel blades are removed from the needle counter and individually placed in the biohazard sharps container. B. Used suture needles and scalpel blades remain in the needle counter and the closed needle counter is placed in the biohazard sharps container. C. The biohazard sharps container is located as close as possible to the area in which the items were used. D. Disposable surgical blades are removed from knife handles with a needle holder or other instrument.
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A. Used suture needles and scalpel blades are removed from the needle counter and individually placed in the biohazard sharps container.
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Why is the right kidney typically several centimeters lower than the left kidney? A. The liver rests superior and anterior to the right kidney. B. The liver rests superior and posterior to the right kidney. C. The liver rests inferior and anterior to the right kidney. D. The liver rests inferior and posterior to the right kidney.
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A. The liver rests superior and anterior to the right kidney.
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Which of the following should be the MINIMUM exposure time in a flash sterilizer for unwrapped instruments? A. 1 minute B. 3 minutes C. 5 minutes D. 7 minutes
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B. 3 minutes
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If a routine surgical procedure was performed without consent, the surgeon committed A. assault. B. battery. C. malpractice. D. liability.
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B. battery.
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If an adult patient refuses a blood transfusion, the surgical staff should A. not administer blood to the patient. B. administer blood only in an emergency. C. administer blood only after sedation. D. not perform any procedure that may require a transfusion.
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A. not administer blood to the patient.
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During the intraoperative phase, which of the following activities can be completed by both sterile and non-sterile members of the surgical team? A.caring for the specimen B.maintaining the patient's operative record C.clearing residual blood from the surgical field D.maintaining the sterile field and neutral zone
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A.caring for the specimen
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A lumbar meningocele involves removal of A. cerebrospinal fluid. B. lumbar disc. C. meninges. D. a fluid-filled sac.
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D. a fluid-filled sac.
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Wrinkle-free padding is applied to an extremity before application of a tourniquet to avoid A. skin injuries. B. improper inflation. C. excessive blood loss. D. skeletal injuries.
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A. skin injuries
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A specimen obtained for frozen section is generally removed from the sterile field intraoperatively because it A. needs to be labeled by the circulator. B. is sent to pathology immediately. C. will contaminate the sterile field. D. needs to be placed in formalin solution.
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B. is sent to pathology immediately.
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Which of the following procedures is used to visualize the cystic, hepatic, and common ducts? A. barium enema B. cholangiography C. intravenous pyelography D. upper gastrointestinal series
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B. cholangiography
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A scleral buckle procedure repairs A. astigmatism. B. detached retinas. C. corneal scarring. D. eye muscle contractures.
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B. detached retinas.
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Which of the following retractors should the surgical technologist have available to provide exposure to the patellar tendon while harvesting the graft for an ACL repair? A. Senn B. Richardson C. Hayes D. Fukuda
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A. Senn
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The surgical technologist in the scrub role should remain sterile following which of the following surgical procedures? A.laparoscopic cholecystectomy B.carotid endarterectomy C.total hip arthroplasty D.tympanoplasty
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B.carotid endarterectomy
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During dissection of the cystic duct in an open cholecystectomy, which of the following instruments is necessary? A. Ochsner forceps B. Jennings retractor C. Mixter clamp D. O'Sullivan-O'Connor retractor
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C. Mixter clamp
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A patient entering the operating room for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy looks jaundiced. Which of the following is the BEST explanation for this? A. pancreatitis B. biliary obstruction C. cholecystitis D. gastroschisis
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B. biliary obstruction
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The primary purpose of a local anesthetic is to A. lower skin temperature. B. reduce fear and anxiety. C. block peripheral nerve receptors. D. decrease bleeding.
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C. block peripheral nerve receptors.
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Which of the following is the correct skin preparation for a female patient undergoing a right mastectomy with possible axillary dissection? A. shoulder, upper arm and extending down to the elbow, axilla, chest to the table line, and to the left shoulder B. base of the neck, shoulder, scapula, chest to midline, and circumference of upper arm down to the elbow C. entire arm, shoulder, axilla, including the hand D. chin to umbilicus and laterally to the table line
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A. shoulder, upper arm and extending down to the elbow, axilla, chest to the table line, and to the left shoulder
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When performing a parotidectomy, which of the following nerves is identified and preserved with the use of a nerve stimulator? A. facial nerve B. recurrent laryngeal nerve C. acoustic nerve D. vagus nerve
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A. facial nerve
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Which of the following medications is the anesthesia provider responsible for recording the name, amount, and delivery method during a surgical procedure? A. thrombin B. topically applied epinephrine C. polymyxin B sulfate irrigation D. propofol
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D. propofol
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As a surgical technologist begins to prep a female patient for Foley catheterization, a bulge in the vaginal wall is noticed. Which of the following would cause this bulge? A. cystocele B. endometriosis C. leiomyoma D. ectopic pregnancy
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A. cystocele
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A surgical technologist enters the OR after scrubbing and notices spots of blood on the OR lights. Which of the following actions is the MOST appropriate? A. Ignore the spots because they are small. B. Tell the circulator to obtain replacements and wait at the scrub sink. C. Ask the circulator to clean the spot and then proceed. D. Break scrub to clean the lights and help open a new sterile field.
answer
D. Break scrub to clean the lights and help open a new sterile field.
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Which of the following instruments should be included in a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) setup? A. lithotrite B. urethrotome C. resectoscope D. Randall
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C. resectoscope
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Which of the following instruments has teeth? A. Kocher B. Mixter C. Babcock D. Mosquito
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A. Kocher
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When entering the abdominal cavity, which of the following BEST describes the order of contact with the layers of tissue? A. skin, fascia, subcutaneous, peritoneum, muscle B. skin, subcutaneous, muscle, fascia, peritoneum C. skin, fascia, peritoneum, subcutaneous, muscle D. skin, subcutaneous, fascia, muscle, peritoneum
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D. skin, subcutaneous, fascia, muscle, peritoneum
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If a Kelly clamp is left in a patient who underwent a cholecystectomy, which of the following legal concepts apply? A. misdemeanor B. res ipsa loquitur C. extension doctrine D. intentional tort
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B. res ipsa loquitur
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A surgical technologist just opened an instrument set that is wet inside after undergoing steam sterilization. Which of the following is the MOST likely reason for the condensate in the package and how can it be corrected? A. There are not enough instruments in the tray to allow for revaporization of the condensate. The number of instruments in the tray should be increased and the tray should be reprocessed. B. The instrument set contained absorbant towels, which soaked up the moisture and prevented efficient drying. The tray should be reprocessed without any towels. C. The absorbent towels were wrapped too tightly around the instrument tray, so they retained moisture. The tray should be reprocessed with loosely wrapped new towels. D. Condensate has built up on the steam lines. The surgical technologist should clean the steam lines and reprocess the instrument tray.
answer
C. The absorbent towels were wrapped too tightly around the instrument tray, so they retained moisture. The tray should be reprocessed with loosely wrapped new towels
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A surgeon's preference card indicates the surgeon wears a size L gown and double-gloves with a size 7 inner glove and size 6-1/2 outer glove, and the first assistant wears a size XL gown and double-gloves with a size 7-1/2 inner glove and size 7 outer glove. The first assistant arrives prior to the surgeon. Which of the following is the proper order to place the sterile attire on the back table? A. L gown, 7 glove, 6-1/2 glove, XL gown, 7-1/2 glove, 7 glove B. XL gown, 7-1/2 glove, 7 glove, L gown, 7 glove, 6-1/2 glove C. XL gown, 7 glove, 7-1/2 glove, towel, L gown, 6-1/2 glove, 7 glove D. L gown, 6-1/2 glove, 7 glove, towel, XL gown, 7 glove, 6-1/2 glove
answer
B. XL gown, 7-1/2 glove, 7 glove, L gown, 7 glove, 6-1/2 glove
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Following a surgical procedure, which of the following is the BEST sequence of actions for a surgical technologist to take? A. Remove sterile drapes, remove gown and gloves, and don a pair of unsterile gloves to aid in the care of the postoperative patient. B. Remove gown and gloves, don a pair of unsterile gloves to remove drapes from the patient, and remove instruments and supplies from the back table. C. Remove gown and gloves, don a pair of sterile gloves to remove drapes from patient, and remove gloves and don a pain of unsterile gloves to clean the back table. D. Remove sterile drapes, remove gown and gloves, and don a pair of sterile gloves to clean back table.
answer
A. Remove sterile drapes, remove gown and gloves, and don a pair of unsterile gloves to aid in the care of the postoperative patient.
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Which of the following drugs neutralizes the action of heparin? A. calcium chloride B. protamine sulfate C. lidocaine (Xylocaine) D. neostigmine (Prostigmin)
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B. protamine sulfate
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Which of the following wounds is MOST likely in the inflammatory phase of wound healing? A. a Bankart repair, one week post-procedure B. a laparotomy incision with a cicatrix C. an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of a finger, two weeks post-procedure D. an abdominal incision, 20 minutes post-closure
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D. an abdominal incision, 20 minutes post-closure
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To revascularize the heart muscle of a patient with heart disease, a graft may be anastomosed between which of the following two vessels? A. internal mammary artery to affected coronary artery B. subclavian artery to affected coronary artery C. internal mammary artery to aorta D. subclavian artery to aorta
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A. internal mammary artery to affected coronary artery
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A laparotomy drape has been placed on a patient, and unprepped skin on the operative site is exposed. Which of the following is the BEST next step? A. Apply drapes over unprepped skin. B. Reposition the drapes closer together. C. Remove drapes and re-prep. D. Cover with an adhesive drape.
answer
C. Remove drapes and re-prep
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While preparing a sterile field, a surgical technologist secures the Bovie holster to the Mayo stand. The surgeon insists on keeping the Bovie by him toward the head of the patient. Which of the following would be the BEST course of action? A. Move Bovie holster up by head of patient. B. Do not move the Bovie holster. C. Tell the circulator to document the surgeon's response. D. Remove the Bovie from the field.
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A. Move Bovie holster up by head of patient.
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Ratcheted instruments should be A. soaked in a saline solution. B. prepared for decontamination with curved tips up. C. opened for washing and sterilizing. D. sterilized in the sonic washer.
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C. opened for washing and sterilizing.
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An effective packaging material used for a Balfour to be steam sterilized A. permits penetration by the sterilant. B. allows for condensation that produces wet packs. C. allows for exposure to peracetic acid. D. is dictated by the surgeon's preference.
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A. permits penetration by the sterilant.
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The parathyroid gland regulates A. insulin. B. calcium. C. sodium. D. aldosterone.
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B. calcium.
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Scoliosis is MOST commonly found in which of the following curves of the vertebral column? A. cervical B. thoracic C. lumbar D. sacral
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B. thoracic
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Which of the following is the MOST effective mechanical method of controlling bleeding occurring from needle holes in vessel anastomoses? A. pledget B. suction C. ligature D. clamp
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A. pledget
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Which of the following should be visualized on an x-ray to determine if a long bone is still growing? A. periosteum B. diaphysis C. medullary canal D. epiphyseal plate
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D. epiphyseal plate
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Which of the following procedures for obtaining an informed consent form is appropriate? A. The patient is asked to sign the consent form after the surgeon has explained the procedure. B. The surgical technologist in the circulator role is ultimately responsible for obtaining the signed consent form. C. The patient is asked to read the entire consent form after signing it. D. The consent form is witnessed by one member of the patient's family.
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A. The patient is asked to sign the consent form after the surgeon has explained the procedure.
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Which of the following procedures is used for removal of an embolus? A. endarterectomy B. balloon catheterization C. aneurysmectomy D. fasciotomy
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B. balloon catheterization
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Which of the following items should be used to transport a patient in traction? A. bed B. stretcher C. wheelchair D. fracture table
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A. bed
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At the conclusion of the surgical procedure, the Mayo stand should A. remain sterile until the patient leaves the room. B. be pulled away from the sterile field by the circulator after skin closure. C. be completely emptied immediately after skin closure. D. be considered unsterile once the dressing is applied.
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A. remain sterile until the patient leaves the room.
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Which of the following is used during a tympanoplasty? A. image intensifier B. hypothermia unit C. operating microscope D. argon laser
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C. operating microscope
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Removing a cataract by ultrasonic vibration and aspiration is called A. laser surgery. B. phacoemulsification. C. extracapsular extraction. D. intracapsular extraction.
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B. phacoemulsification.
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Surgical loupes are used to A. provide hemostasis. B. infuse the body cavity. C. magnify the surgical field. D. stimulate the circulatory system.
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C. magnify the surgical field
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A patient undergoing a blood transfusion is having a hemolytic reaction. Which of the following actions should the healthcare providers take FIRST? A. Administer dantrolene. B. Stop the transfusion. C. Monitor urine output. D. Send blood sample to blood bank.
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B. Stop the transfusion
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A patient's dentures are removed in the operating room. Which of the following is the proper procedure for the care of the dentures? A. Return them to the patient's unit and leave them at the nurses' station. B. Place them in a labeled denture cup and keep them with the patient's chart. C. Wrap them in a paper towel and give them to the anesthesiologist. D. Ask the circulator to return them to the patient's room.
answer
B. Place them in a labeled denture cup and keep them with the patient's chart.
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Which of the following is associated with secondary intention wound healing? A. delayed suturing B. tissue granulation C. wound dehiscence D. uncomplicated healing
answer
B. tissue granulation
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When inflating a 5-cc balloon on a Foley catheter, which of the following would be the MOST appropriate choice? A. 3-5 mL of sterile water B. 3-5 mL of normal saline C. 8-10 mL of sterile water D. 8-10 mL of normal saline
answer
C. 8-10 mL of sterile water
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During a craniotomy, removal of the bone flap is followed by A.incision of the dura mater. B.incision of the galea aponeurotica. C.application of the Raney clips. D.suturing of the dura mater.
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A.incision of the dura mater
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During a laparoscopic appendectomy, which of the following types of staplers should the surgical technologist have ready on the back table for removing the appendix and ensuring no spillage of bowel content? A. intraluminal B. linear C. skin D. purse-string
answer
B. linear
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Which of the following solutions is used to identify diseased areas for a cold conization of the cervix? A. Lugol's B. fluorescein C. methylene blue D. Isovue
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A. Lugol's
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Which of the following is the correct position for dilation and curettage? A. Sims B. supine C. Kraske D. lithotomy
answer
D. lithotomy
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An RN has just asked a surgical technologist to complete a task that is within the surgical technologist's scope of practice, but the surgical technologist does not feel comfortable completing the task independently. Which of the following is the surgical technologist's BEST course of action? A. Ensure that the RN has documented that the task was delegated to the surgical technologist. B. Request that the RN provides the appropriate level of supervision during the task to ensure safety. C. Confirm that the initial orientation asked about the surgical technologist's competency for the task. D. Obtain verbal instructions for completing the task from the RN before she leaves the room.
answer
B. Request that the RN provides the appropriate level of supervision during the task to ensure safety.
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Which of the following may be used for a cerebral aneurysm? A. dura hook B. nerve hook C. brain spoon D. rake retractor
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C. brain spoon
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Which of the following instruments should be included in the set-up for a laminectomy? A. Hohmann B. Mayfield C. Kerrison D. Bennett
answer
C. Kerrison
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A surgical technologist is preparing a fresh specimen for frozen section to be passed off of the field. How should the specimen be prepared to be passed to the circulator? A. wrap it in a moist sponge B. remove any suture material that may be attached C. wrap it in a Telfa pad D. remove from back table using a hemostat
answer
C. wrap it in a Telfa pad
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Which of the following suturing techniques features short lateral stitches that are taken beneath the epithelial layer of skin? A. purse-string B. traction C. mattress D. subcuticular
answer
D. subcuticular
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Which of the following surgical needles is MOST appropriately used in a liver resection? A. cutting B. taper C. blunt D. trocar
answer
C. blunt
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Which of the following is NOT an acceptable technique when placing a patient in the lithotomy position? A. arms placed on arm boards B. legs placed in stirrups one at a time C. both legs placed in stirrups simultaneously D. hips placed over the lower break of the table
answer
B. legs placed in stirrups one at a time
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What is the function of silver sulfadiazine (Silvadene)? A. antimicrobial B. hemostasis C. irrigation D. anticoagulant
answer
A. antimicrobial
question
If unexpected heavy blood loss occurs during an abdominal procedure, a surgical technologist should request additional A. lap sponges. B. RAY-TEC sponges. C. Kitners. D. cottonoids.
answer
A. lap sponges
question
A surgical technologist is explaining the steps of the ESU circuit to a student. The surgical technologist should explain that the electric current is channeled back to the generator through the A. power source. B. active electrode (ESU pencil). C. patient. D. dispersive (inactive) electrode.
answer
D. dispersive (inactive) electrode.
question
Sponges that have been added to the sterile field after a procedure has begun should be counted by the A. circulator and surgeon. B. surgical technologist in the scrub role and surgical first assistant. C. surgeon and surgical first assistant. D. surgical technologist in the scrub role and the circulator.
answer
D. surgical technologist in the scrub role and the circulator.
question
During a procedure, a surgical technologist touches an unsterile item with a sterile glove. Which of the following should be done? A. Change the glove at once. B. Break scrub and rescrub. C. Wait until closing to change the glove. D. Ask the surgeon what to do.
answer
A. Change the glove at once
question
The oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells is a function of A. albumin. B. hemoglobin. C. hematocrit. D. prothrombin.
answer
B. hemoglobin.
question
Which of the following procedures uses a trocar? A. cystoscopy B. laparoscopy C. proctoscopy D. bronchoscopy
answer
B. laparoscopy
question
A major function of the colon is to A. absorb water. B. secrete hormones. C. secrete digestive enzymes. D. absorb the products of digestion.
answer
A. absorb water
question
Hepatitis B is caused by a A. prion. B. virus. C. protozoan. D. bacterium.
answer
B. virus.
question
At the conclusion of a surgical case, how would the surgical technologist in the scrub role aid in reducing bioburden on instruments as the first step in the sterilization cycle? A. hand cleaning B. disinfection C. sorting D. sterilization
answer
A. hand cleaning
question
A potential surgical complication of an inguinal herniorrhaphy is injury to the A. phrenic nerve. B. sciatic nerve. C. spermatic cord. D. femoral artery.
answer
C. spermatic cord.
question
What type of incision is typically used for an open cholecystectomy? A. McBurney's B. Pfannenstiel C. midline D. subcostal
answer
D. subcostal
question
Which of the following pathogens would MOST likely cause a post-operative SSI? A. Staphylococcus aureus B. Enterococcus spp. C. Streptococcus spp. D. Escherichia coli
answer
A. Staphylococcus aureus
question
Which of the following must be done before sterilizing an instrument with a lumen? A. allowing the instrument to dry completely B. ensuring the stylet is still within the lumen C. injecting a small amount of distilled water into the lumen D. wrapping separately in a peel pack pouch and placed in the tray
answer
C. injecting a small amount of distilled water into the lumen
question
Which of the following is the correct order, from the outermost to the innermost layer, of the tissues that compose the wall of the stomach and small intestine? 1. submucosa 2. muscularis 3. serosa 4. mucosa A. 1, 4, 2, 3 B. 3, 2, 1, 4 C. 1, 2, 4, 3 D. 3, 4, 2, 1
answer
B. 3, 2, 1, 4
question
Which of the following is NOT a symptom of shock? A. tachycardia B. hypertension C. cold, clammy skin D. increased respirations
answer
B. hypertension
question
When transferring an unconscious, post-operative adult patient from the operating room table to a bed, what is the minimum number of people required for safe transfer? A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4
answer
D. 4
question
Which of the following scissors is MOST likely found in a basic hysterectomy set-up? A. Potts-Smith B. Stevens C. Jorgenson D. Iris
answer
C. Jorgenson
question
Which of the following is used to remove clots and tissue from the bladder during transurethral resections (TURPs)? A. lithotrite B. asepto syringe C. Ellik evacuator D. Fogarty catheter
answer
C. Ellik evacuator
question
A Javid shunt is used for which of the following procedures? A. carotid endarterectomy B. femoral-popliteal bypass C. abdominal aneurysmectomy D. saphenous vein ligation
answer
A. carotid endarterectomy
question
How much 0.25% bupivacaine (Marcaine) should be mixed with 1 mL of 1.0% lidocaine (Xylocaine) to make the solution equal strengths of both medications? A. 2.0 mL B. 4.0 mL C. 5.0 mL D. 10.0 mL
answer
B. 4.0 mL
question
Hair removed during preparation for cranial surgery should be A. discarded by the circulator. B. sent to pathology. C. used for potential reimplantation. D. saved because it is personal property.
answer
B. sent to pathology
question
Which of the following terms best describes a formal medical process when death occurs in surgery and the surgeon and anesthesia care provider must verify that death has occurred? A. determination of death B. rigor mortis C. postmortem procedures D. livor mortis
answer
A. determination of death
question
To help prevent toxicity and vascular events in a patient where polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is used, which of the following devices should a surgical technologist have available? A. pulse lavage B. mask C. smoke evacuator D. cement mixer with charcoal filter
answer
A. pulse lavage
question
A pneumatic tourniquet may be used for extremity surgery to A. exsanguinate the extremity. B. allow the surgeon more operating time. C. reduce blood loss. D. create an anesthetic effect.
answer
C. reduce blood loss.
question
During a craniotomy, which of the following types of bone is entered? A. flat B. round C. long D. short
answer
A. flat
question
Which of the following is a procedure for removing excess skin from the face and neck? A. rhinoplasty B. rhytidectomy C. cheiloplasty D. blepharoplasty
answer
B. rhytidectomy
question
During an open repair of an indirect hernia, which of the following drains should a surgical technologist have available to pass the surgeon once the spermatic cord has been dissected? A. Malecot B. T-tube C. Jackson-Pratt D. Penrose
answer
D. Penrose
question
What color is a nitrous oxide tank? A. blue B. gray C. green D. orange
answer
A. blue
question
Which of the following is MOST likely to be in place while transferring a patient from the operating room table to the stretcher? 1. IV tubing 2. Fogarty catheter 3. EKG wires 4. Foley catheter A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 4 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 3 and 4 only
answer
B. 1 and 4 only
question
Which of the following types of sponges is used directly on the structures of the brain? A. RAY-TEC B. cherry C. Weck-cel D. cottonoid
answer
D. cottonoid
question
Which of the following procedures requires an incision in the suprasternal notch? A. mediastinoscopy B. bronchoscopy C. parotidectomy D. pericardectomy
answer
A. mediastinoscopy
question
Following an abdominal surgery, the surgeon has just closed the peritoneum. Which of the following layers will be sutured next? A. fascia B. muscle C. subcutaneous D. subcuticular
answer
A. fascia
question
During the application of arch bars, the surgeon will MOST likely use which of the following between the teeth and around the bar? A. 0-1 Dexon B. 5-0 to 6-0 Vicryl C. 25- or 26-gauge stainless steel wire D. 35- or 40-gauge stainless steel wire
answer
C. 25- or 26-gauge stainless steel wire
question
In which of the following positions should a patient be placed for a low anterior colon resection? A. dorsal recumbent B. prone C. lateral D. lithotomy
answer
D. lithotomy
question
A #12 knife blade on a #7 handle is MOST commonly used for what type of surgery? A. gastrectomy B. hysterectomy C. adenoidectomy D. tonsillectomy
answer
D. tonsillectomy
question
Which of the following anticoagulants should be given during a vascular procedure to prevent normal blood clotting? A. heparin sodium B. protamine sulfate C. atropine D. epinephrine
answer
A. heparin sodium
question
What advantage do hand-held retractors have over self-retaining retractors? A. less exposure B. operator dependency C. lesser fatigue factor D. dynamic adjustability
answer
D. dynamic adjustability
question
In which of the following congenital anomalies does the urethra open on the underside of the penis? A. chordee B. epispadias C. phimosis D. hypospadias
answer
D. hypospadias
question
Once a surgical technologist dons a gown, the cuffs on the gown are considered unsterile because they are A. covered by the cuff of the sterile glove. B. double thickness. C. absorbant and collect moisture. D. stretchable and pliable.
answer
C. absorbant and collect moisture.
question
A physician prescribed 50 milligrams of Demerol. The Demerol is supplied in 100 mg/mL. How many mL of Demerol should be given? A. 0.5 mL B. 1.0 mL C. 1.5 mL D. 2.0 mL
answer
A. 0.5 mL
question
A surgeon asks a surgical technologist to place a drop of a mydriatic solution in OD. As a result of this medication, the pupil of the A. right eye will dilate. B. left eye will dilate. C. right eye will constrict. D. left eye will constrict.
answer
A. right eye will dilate.
question
A Marshall-Marchetti-Krantz (MMK) requires which of the following skin preparations? 1. abdominal 2. vaginal 3. rectal 4. extremity A. 1 and 2 only B. 1 and 3 only C. 2 and 4 only D. 3 and 4 only
answer
A. 1 and 2 only
question
Which of the following conditions is triggered by an injection of succinylcholine (Anectine) and causes an unusually high fever? A. osteomyelitis B. sepsis C. malignant hyperthermia D. appendicitis
answer
C. malignant hyperthermia
question
Which of the following statements regarding surgical scrubbing is NOT true? A. Two accepted methods of surgical scrubbing are the timed method and the counted brush-stroke method. B. A vigorous 5-minute scrub with a reliable agent may be as effective as a 10-minute scrub done with less mechanical action. C. Prolonging a scrub beyond the standard scrub length is effective in decreasing microbe counts. D. When gloves are removed at the end of a surgical procedure, the hands are contaminated and should be immediately washed.
answer
C. Prolonging a scrub beyond the standard scrub length is effective in decreasing microbe counts.
question
Which of the following spore-forming microorganisms are used as biological monitors for checking steam sterilization effectiveness for a load of instruments in a rigid container? A. Bacillus stearothermophilus B. Bacillus atrophaeus C. Mycobacterium tuberculosis D. Streptococcus pyogenes
answer
A. Bacillus stearothermophilus
question
During a laminectomy, disk material is removed with A. an osteotome. B. a Kerrison rongeur. C. a pituitary rongeur. D. a periosteal elevator.
answer
C. a pituitary rongeur.
question
Which of the following retractors is used for a C-section? A. De Lee B. Hibbs C. O'Connor-O'Sullivan D. Auvard
answer
A. De Lee
question
A surgical technologist is preparing the incision site for the dressing following a TAH. The patient has developed a hematoma at the incision site. The surgeon has left the room. Which of the following actions should the surgical technologist take? A. Place a pressure dressing. B. Cover with Dermabond. C. Steri-Strip the incision. D. Have the surgeon return.
answer
D. Have the surgeon return.
question
Which of the following is a type of herniation that occurs with protrusion of the peritoneal sac and its contents (omentum or abdominal viscera)? A. epigastric B. umbilical C. hypogastric D. femoral
answer
B. umbilical
question
Heaney clamps are used MOST frequently for which of the following types of surgery? A. hysterectomy. B. lobectomy. C. cystectomy. D. gastrectomy.
answer
A. hysterectomy
question
During a C-section, a surgical technologist passes the surgeon a pair of Metzenbaum scissors and Russian forceps. Which of the following anatomical parts is dissected off the uterus and gently retracted prior to uterine incision? A. ovaries B. bladder C. peritoneum D. broad ligament
answer
B. bladder
question
Between each surgical procedure, decontamination of walls involves washing A. areas that have been splashed with blood or debris. B. all walls with a disinfectant solution. C. from the floor up to a 5-foot level with a disinfectant solution. D. from the floor up to a 5-foot level with a viricidal solution.
answer
A. areas that have been splashed with blood or debris.
question
Which of the following situations would present a problem when preparing instruments for sterilization using a paper-plastic peel pack? A. The open end of the paper-plastic peel pack has been sealed with tape. B. The instruments within the paper-plastic peel pack have been held together with tape to avoid shifting. C. The instruments should be placed in the paper-plastic peel pack with the rings at the end that was sealed by the manufacturer. D. A felt-tip marker was used to label the plastic on the paper-plastic peel pack prior to sterilization.
answer
B. The instruments within the paper-plastic peel pack have been held together with tape to avoid shifting.
question
A patient undergoing a procedure while under general anesthesia begins to experience muscle rigidity, followed by tachycardia, metabolic and respiratory acidosis, and cardiac dysrhythmias. Which of the following is the patient experiencing? A. septic shock B. malignant hyperthermia C. cardiopulmonary arrest D. pulmonary embolism
answer
B. malignant hyperthermia
question
Anterior and posterior knee stability is influenced by the dynamics of the A. cruciate ligaments. B. joint capsule. C. patellar tendon. D. collateral ligaments.
answer
A. cruciate ligaments.
question
When applying a pneumatic tourniquet preoperatively, which of the following items is used to force blood from an extremity? A. stockinette B. Coban C. tourniquet cuff D. Esmarch bandage
answer
D. Esmarch bandage
question
After gowning and gloving, a surgeon activates the DuraPrep applicator and proceeds to prep the patient for surgery. Which of the following is the BEST action to take at this time? A. Assist the surgeon in draping the patient. B. Regown and reglove the surgeon. C. Remove drapes and start over. D. Inform the supervisor.
answer
B. Regown and reglove the surgeon.
question
After a lung resection is performed, which of the following BEST describes the placement of the collection unit once it is hooked up to the drainage tubing? A. at the same level as the insertion tube B. below the level of the insertion tube C. above the level of the insertion tube D. at the level of the patient's feet
answer
B. below the level of the insertion tube
question
Which of the following methods of hospital sterilization does not corrode metal and passes through woven materials like steam? A. ionizing radiation B. Steris C. glutaraldehyde D. ethylene oxide
answer
D. ethylene oxide
