Question 1

During a surgical procedure, which of the following best explains why a count of sponges, sharps, and instruments is performed both at the beginning and end of the case?

Accepted Answer

To prevent the accidental retention of foreign objects in the patient, which is critical for patient safety and legal reasons.

Question 2

A surgical technologist is preparing for a procedure involving closure of the uterus during a cesarean section, followed by closure of the abdomen. According to best practices, when should the count be performed?

Accepted Answer

After closure of the uterus and again after closure of the abdomen, as this is a cavity-within-cavity situation.

Question 3

If an emergency situation prevents the initial count from being performed before surgery, what is the recommended action to ensure patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Perform an x-ray before the patient leaves the operating room to ensure no items are retained.

Question 4

Which of the following is the correct order for performing the initial count at the start of a surgical procedure?

Accepted Answer

Sponges, sharps, instruments, accessory items

Question 5

A pack of surgical sponges is opened and found to contain only 9 sponges instead of the expected 10. The patient has not yet entered the room. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Remove the entire pack from the room and open a new, complete pack.

Question 6

Which anatomical plane divides the body into right and left halves at the midline?

Accepted Answer

Median (midsagittal) plane

Question 7

A patient is scheduled for abdominal surgery. The surgical team must prep the skin before draping. Which of the following is a key principle for prepping the skin?

Accepted Answer

Start at the incision site and move outward in a widening circular motion.

Question 8

Which of the following best describes the function of surgical drapes?

Accepted Answer

To serve as a barrier to isolate and protect the operative site from contamination.

Question 9

During a surgical count, the surgical technologist and circulator must count each item in an audible fashion. Why is this important?

Accepted Answer

It ensures both parties are aware of the count and can confirm accuracy.

Question 10

A surgical technologist is relieved by another technologist during a procedure. According to best practices, what should occur regarding the count?

Accepted Answer

A count and sterile supply check should be performed with the incoming team.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the term 'proximal' in anatomical terminology?

Accepted Answer

Closer to the center of the body or point of attachment

Question 12

A surgical instrument with multiple detachable parts is being used. What is the correct protocol for counting this instrument?

Accepted Answer

Count each detachable part separately.

Question 13

Which abdominal region is located directly below the umbilical region?

Accepted Answer

Hypogastric region

Question 14

If a sharp is dropped during a surgical procedure, what is the correct action according to best practices?

Accepted Answer

Set it aside in a safe area to be included in the closing and final counts.

Question 15

Which of the following is a key reason for using alcohol-based skin preps in surgery?

Accepted Answer

They provide a rapid and significant reduction in skin microbial counts.

Question 16

A surgical team is closing a body cavity. According to protocol, when must the count be completed?

Accepted Answer

Before the cavity is closed, regardless of incision size.

Question 17

Which quadrant of the abdomen contains the majority of the liver?

Accepted Answer

Right upper quadrant (RUQ)

Question 18

A surgical drape is found to have a small hole after being placed. What is the appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Cover the hole immediately with an impermeable material or replace the drape.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the dorsal cavity?

Accepted Answer

A space within the back of the body that includes the cranial and spinal cavities.

Question 20

A surgical technologist is counting needles in a packet labeled as containing 12 needles, but only 11 are visible. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately communicate the discrepancy to the circulator so it can be noted and the count can be corrected.

Surgical Counts, Organization of the Human Body, and Prepping & Draping: Week 4 Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards