Operating Room Setup & Management Flashcards
7 cards from real CST practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Operating Room Setup & Management flashcards as text
What is the purpose of placing a grounding pad (dispersive electrode) on the patient before electrosurgery?
Answer: To complete the electrical circuit and safely disperse current away from the operative site
The dispersive electrode (grounding pad) completes the electrosurgical circuit and disperses current over a large skin area to prevent burns at a single point.
Which OR zone is designated as the 'restricted' area and requires surgical attire and masks?
Answer: Restricted zone including the OR suite itself
The restricted zone — the OR suite and sterile core — requires full surgical attire including a mask because sterile procedures are performed there.
What action should be taken if an instrument count is incorrect at wound closure?
Answer: Perform an immediate search of the wound, drapes, and room before closing
An incorrect count requires an immediate search of the operative wound, sponge buckets, drapes, floor, and room before the wound is closed, and a radiograph may be ordered.
The Trendelenburg position places the patient in which orientation?
Answer: Supine with head lowered and feet elevated
Trendelenburg places the patient supine with the head tilted downward and feet elevated, shifting abdominal contents toward the head to improve pelvic organ exposure.
Which instrument is used to hold back tissue or organs that are not part of the operative site?
Answer: Retractor
Retractors are used to hold tissue or organs out of the operative field, providing exposure without requiring additional hands on the field.
When preparing a back table, where should sharps (needles, blades) be placed?
Answer: In a designated sharps container on the back table or in a needle mat
Sharps are contained in a designated needle mat or sharps container on the sterile back table to prevent accidental needlestick injuries during the procedure.
What is the proper method for passing a scalpel to the surgeon to prevent sharps injuries?
Answer: Place it in a neutral zone (basin or magnetic pad) for the surgeon to pick up
AORN and OSHA recommend the neutral zone or hands-free technique, placing the scalpel in a designated neutral zone so neither party holds it simultaneously during transfer.