Surgical Nursing Procedures Flashcards
7 cards from real VTNE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Surgical Nursing Procedures flashcards as text
What is the recommended minimum number of days that surgical instruments should be kept dry after autoclaving before being considered sterile and ready for use in event-related sterility?
Answer: Sterility is event-related, not time-related, so no minimum days apply
Modern sterility standards are event-related, meaning a package remains sterile until an event (damage, moisture, opening) compromises it.
When preparing an abdominal surgical site on a dog, the prep should extend at minimum how far from the planned incision line in each direction?
Answer: 10 cm (or to include a generous margin)
A minimum 10 cm margin (or a generous margin extending well beyond the incision) is recommended to maintain a sterile field if retraction is needed.
Which type of wound healing occurs when wound edges are directly apposed and the wound closes with minimal scar formation?
Answer: First intention (primary closure)
First intention (primary closure) healing occurs when wound edges are sutured together directly, resulting in rapid healing with minimal scarring.
A cat undergoing an exploratory laparotomy begins to develop pale mucous membranes and a rapid weak pulse intraoperatively. The FIRST action the veterinary technician should take is:
Answer: Alert the surgeon and check for internal hemorrhage
Pale mucous membranes and weak rapid pulse suggest hemorrhagic shock; the surgeon must be alerted immediately to identify and control bleeding.
Which of the following correctly describes the purpose of a surgical lavage during an abdominal procedure?
Answer: To irrigate the abdominal cavity to dilute and remove contamination
Surgical lavage uses warm sterile saline to dilute bacteria and debris from the abdominal cavity, reducing the risk of septic peritonitis.
Which suture material is most appropriate for a contaminated wound closure where extended tensile strength and low tissue reactivity are needed?
Answer: Polydioxanone (PDS)
Polydioxanone (PDS) is a monofilament absorbable suture with low tissue reactivity and prolonged tensile strength, making it suitable for contaminated environments.
What is the primary purpose of a Penrose drain placed in a surgical wound?
Answer: To allow passive drainage of fluid and exudate from a wound
A Penrose drain is a passive, open drain that allows fluid and exudate to exit a wound by capillary action and gravity.