CST Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CST facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which microorganism is MOST resistant to sterilization and requires the highest level of processing to eliminate? → Bacterial endospores such as Bacillus anthracis
2. The postoperative instrument count reveals one extra instrument compared to the opening count. The most appropriate action is to: → Search the field and drapes, then report the discrepancy immediately
3. Malignant hyperthermia is most commonly triggered by which combination of agents? → Succinylcholine and volatile halogenated agents
4. What does a chemical indicator show? → Conditions for sterilization were met
5. During an open-heart procedure requiring cardiopulmonary bypass, which cannula is inserted first by convention? → Arterial cannula
6. What is the role of the surgical technologist during the time-out? → To actively participate and confirm patient identity, site, and procedure
7. What is the purpose of intravascular heparin administration prior to clamping the aorta during an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair? → To prevent clot formation distal to the clamp
8. In Surgical Pharmacology, what is the FIRST step a CST professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
9. During a whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy), which four structures are typically resected? → Head of pancreas, duodenum, gallbladder, and distal stomach
10. A patient's preoperative checklist reveals they took their daily aspirin this morning. This is most significant because aspirin: → Inhibits platelet aggregation and increases bleeding risk
11. What is the significance of peer review in evidence-based practice & research methods for CST professionals? → It promotes accountability, knowledge sharing, and quality improvement
12. Chemical class indicators (Class 2 indicators) such as the Bowie-Dick test are used to: → Verify steam penetration in dynamic-air-removal sterilizers
13. During a laparoscopic procedure, what device is used to maintain pneumoperitoneum? → Insufflator
14. Which type of indicator confirms that sterilization conditions were met inside a sterilization load? → Biological indicator (BI)
15. Which technology trend is most likely to impact evidence-based practice & research methods in the CST field in coming years? → Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting
16. What is the purpose of a Mayo stand in the OR? → To hold instruments immediately needed during surgery
17. Tranexamic acid (TXA) reduces surgical bleeding primarily by: → Inhibiting fibrinolysis by blocking plasminogen activation
18. The primary purpose of enzymatic detergents used during instrument decontamination is to: → Break down organic soil such as blood and protein
19. Which type of OR table attachment is used to support the patient's arm during procedures requiring access to the brachial plexus area? → Armboard
20. When sterilizing a container system (rigid sterilization container), the filter or valve must be: → Checked for integrity before use and replaced if damaged or wet
21. Which packaging material is NOT compatible with hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization? → Paper/cellulose-based wraps
22. The circulator reports that the patient's temperature has dropped to 35°C during a long procedure. The ST's BEST response is to: → Prepare warm irrigation fluids and notify the surgeon
23. During a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), the saphenous vein is commonly harvested from which location? → Medial thigh and leg
24. A 3-0 absorbable suture is being used to close subcutaneous tissue. Which of the following is an example of a synthetic absorbable suture? → Polyglycolic acid (Dexon)
25. Which segment of the nephron is primarily responsible for concentrating urine by reabsorbing water without solutes? → Collecting duct
26. Why should you never recap used needles? → To avoid accidental needle sticks
27. The saphenous vein is commonly harvested for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Where does the great saphenous vein originate? → Dorsal venous arch of the foot
28. What is the purpose of the 'sign in' phase of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist? → Verify patient identity, site marking, consent, and anesthesia readiness before induction
29. What is the correct patient position for most abdominal surgeries? → Supine
30. Which reversal agent is used to antagonize non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agents at the end of surgery? → Neostigmine