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5 realistic CST exam questions
Reveal the answer and clinical rationale for each — exactly like the full simulator.
Which biological indicator organism is used to monitor the effectiveness of steam sterilization?
- A.Geobacillus stearothermophilus
- B.Bacillus atrophaeus
- C.Clostridium difficile
- D.Staphylococcus aureus
What is the standard exposure time for a wrapped instrument set in a gravity-displacement steam sterilizer at 250°F (121°C)?
- A.4 minutes
- B.30 minutes
- C.10 minutes
- D.60 minutes
Which area of a sterile gown is considered sterile after gowning and gloving?
- A.The entire gown, front and back
- B.The back from neck to waist
- C.The front from chest to table level and sleeves to 2 inches above the elbow
- D.Only the sleeves
If the final sponge count is incorrect and the missing sponge cannot be located, what is the appropriate action?
- A.Obtain an intraoperative X-ray before the patient leaves the room
- B.Document the discrepancy and proceed to close
- C.Repeat the procedure
- D.Have the circulator sign off on the count
A sterile drape has been placed but is slightly off-center. What should be done?
- A.Slide it carefully into the correct position
- B.Lift it and replace it
- C.Have the circulator adjust it
- D.Leave it in place; it cannot be moved
5 sample flashcards
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Test yourself — 5 question quiz
Pick an answer for each question, then submit to see your score.
1. Which feature distinguishes a Kocher (Ochsner) clamp from a Kelly hemostat?
2. What is the first step in reprocessing instruments after a surgical case?
3. Under the Spaulding classification, a surgical scalpel that enters sterile tissue is classified as which type of item?
4. A surgical skin prep should be applied in which manner?
5. When a circulator pours sterile saline into a basin on the sterile field, the correct technique is to:
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Strongest: Sterilization & sterile technique
Improving: Instrumentation
Focus area: Surgical counts
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