Certification MCQ Flashcards
7 cards from real CNOR practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Certification MCQ flashcards as text
Flash sterilization (immediate-use steam sterilization, IUSS) should be used:
Answer: Only when there is no time to perform standard sterilization and documented need exists
AORN and AAMI recommend IUSS only as a last resort for a specific need, not as a routine practice or convenience measure.
A patient with a known penicillin allergy is to receive surgical antibiotic prophylaxis. The perioperative nurse should anticipate which alternative?
Answer: Clindamycin or vancomycin as alternatives based on the procedure and allergy severity
Clindamycin or vancomycin are commonly used alternatives for patients with penicillin allergy undergoing procedures requiring beta-lactam prophylaxis.
Which action BEST reduces the risk of surgical site infection (SSI) related to hair removal?
Answer: Clipping hair at the operative site immediately before the procedure if removal is necessary
Clipping immediately before surgery is preferred over shaving because razors create micro-abrasions that harbor bacteria and increase SSI risk.
During the postoperative count, the sponge count is incorrect. The IMMEDIATE action is to:
Answer: Notify the surgeon immediately, search the field and room, and obtain an intraoperative X-ray if the sponge is not found
An incorrect count mandates immediate surgeon notification, systematic search, and intraoperative radiograph before wound closure to prevent RSI.
Which position places the patient at highest risk for air embolism?
Answer: Sitting (beach chair) craniotomy position
In the sitting position, the operative site is above the level of the heart, creating negative venous pressure that allows air entrainment into open venous sinuses.
The 'time to first antibiotic dose' standard for surgical prophylaxis is:
Answer: Within 60 minutes before incision (120 minutes for vancomycin and fluoroquinolones)
Evidence-based guidelines require prophylactic antibiotics within 60 minutes of incision (extended to 120 minutes for vancomycin/fluoroquinolones) to achieve effective tissue concentrations.
Which AORN recommended practice guides the management of documentation in the perioperative setting?
Answer: Perioperative nursing documentation should reflect the nursing process and be accurate, timely, and complete
AORN standards require perioperative documentation to reflect assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation — ensuring accountability and continuity of care.