CST Pharmacology & Anesthesia Flashcards

What is the purpose of thrombin when used as a topical hemostatic agent on the sterile field?

Answer: It promotes clot formation by converting fibrinogen to fibrin

Topical thrombin acts locally to convert fibrinogen to fibrin, accelerating clot formation and controlling surgical bleeding.

Which topical hemostatic agent is derived from oxidized cellulose and is absorbed by the body after implantation?

Answer: Surgicel (Oxidized Regenerated Cellulose)

Surgicel (oxidized regenerated cellulose) is an absorbable hemostatic agent that promotes clotting and is absorbed by the body over time.

What is malignant hyperthermia, and which anesthetic agent is most commonly associated with triggering it?

Answer: A life-threatening hypermetabolic reaction triggered by volatile agents and succinylcholine

Malignant hyperthermia is a rare, life-threatening hypermetabolic crisis triggered by certain volatile anesthetics and succinylcholine in genetically susceptible patients.

During a cardiac procedure, protamine sulfate is administered. What is its function?

Answer: It reverses the anticoagulant effects of heparin

Protamine sulfate is used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin after cardiopulmonary bypass is complete.

The circulator is preparing to pour contrast dye onto the sterile field for an arthrogram. What must the surgical technologist verify before accepting it?

Answer: The name, concentration, and expiration date of the agent

Before accepting any medication or contrast agent, the scrub tech must verify the drug name, concentration, and expiration date with the circulator.

What does 'conscious sedation' (monitored anesthesia care) involve?

Answer: Drug-induced depression of consciousness where the patient can respond to verbal commands

Monitored anesthesia care (MAC) uses sedative and analgesic drugs to reduce anxiety and pain while the patient remains arousable and able to follow commands.