Preparing for the CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) exam? Procedures is one of the areas our deck drills hardest: 360 of its 1040 flashcards focus on procedures, covering topics like Betadine, Carotid Endarterectomy, Heparinized Saline, Monopolar Scissors. Try the sample questions below — every card is a real question-and-answer pair from the full deck.
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While reviewing the surgeon's preference card for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the CST notes a request for a 30-degree laparoscope. What is the primary clinical advantage of using a 30-degree scope over a 0-degree scope in this procedure?
Show answer →The 30-degree laparoscope provides a wider field of view and allows the surgeon to see 'around' structures by rotating the light cable. This is critical for visualizing the cystic duct and artery from multiple angles. Rationale: Preference cards specify scope angles because they dictate the visual perspective. NBSTSA Exam Tip: Remember that 0-degree scopes provide a direct 'straight-ahead' view, while angled scopes (30/45/70) are essential for complex anatomy or deep cavities.
The preference card for a patient with a documented severe shellfish allergy lists 'Povidone-Iodine (Betadine) 10%' for the skin prep. What is the CST's most appropriate immediate action during the pre-operative setup?
Show answer →The CST must notify the circulator and surgeon to clarify the prep solution. While the 'shellfish-iodine' cross-reactivity is a common myth, modern safety standards (AORN/AST) require verifying allergies. Rationale: The preference card may be outdated. Using a contraindicated prep can lead to skin irritation or anaphylaxis. NBSTSA Tip: Always prioritize the patient's specific allergy profile over the surgeon's general preference card. Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG) is a common alternative.
A surgeon's preference card for a Carotid Endarterectomy lists 'Heparinized Saline' for irrigation. If the card does not specify the concentration, what is the standard protocol for the CST to follow?
Show answer →The CST must communicate with the surgeon and circulator to obtain a specific order for the concentration (e.g., 5,000 units per 500mL or 1,000 units per 100mL). Rationale: Medication safety is paramount. CSTs cannot assume concentrations. NBSTSA Exam Tip: The 'Six Rights' of medication administration apply here. All medications on the sterile field must be labeled with the name, concentration, and expiration date.
During a robotic-assisted prostatectomy setup, the preference card lists 'Monopolar Scissors' and 'Bipolar Forceps.' Where should the CST place the tip of the monopolar instrument during the 'Sign In' phase or initial docking?
Show answer →The CST should ensure the instrument tips are visible and not touching any tissue or drapes until the surgeon takes control of the console. Rationale: Robotic instruments are highly sensitive. Preference cards for robotic cases often include specific docking instructions. NBSTSA Tip: The CST must understand the difference between monopolar (requires grounding pad) and bipolar (current stays between tips) as specified on the card to ensure patient safety and proper equipment testing.
The preference card for a Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) indicates a 'Lateral Position.' Which specific positioning devices should the CST ensure are available in the room based on this card entry?
Show answer →The CST must ensure the availability of a beanbag (vacuum-packed positioner), axillary rolls, kidney braces (bolsters), and padding for the peroneal nerve and dependent bony prominences. Rationale: The preference card dictates the equipment needed for safe positioning. NBSTSA Exam Tip: Lateral positioning requires careful protection of the brachial plexus and the peroneal nerve of the down leg. Failure to have these items ready per the card causes surgical delays.
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The full CST deck contains 1040 flashcards, and 360 of them focus on procedures. This page shows 5 free samples.
Our CST deck dedicates 360 of 1040 cards (35%) to procedures — always cross-check the official NBSTSA exam outline for the current blueprint weighting.
Yes — the samples on this page are free, and the CST preview page has 30 more free cards. Full access to all 1040 cards is a one-time $7.