Surg Tech Review

Front

What is the purpose of a dispersive electrode in surgical procedures?

Back

The dispersive electrode, used in electrosurgical units (ESUs), helps to safely return the electrical current to the generator, preventing burns and ensuring effective cutting or coagulation.

Front

What is a ROUX en Y anastomosis?

Back

A surgical procedure that connects the stomach to the jejunum, bypassing a portion of the small intestine, often used in gastric bypass surgeries.

Front

What is the function of the olfactory nerve?

Back

The olfactory nerve is responsible for the sense of smell.

Front

What is the significance of maintaining negative pressure in a waterseal chest drain?

Back

Negative pressure prevents air from entering the pleural space, which is crucial for lung re-expansion and proper respiratory function.

Front

Define sterilization in a surgical context.

Back

Sterilization is the process of completely removing or destroying all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, from instruments and surfaces.

Front

What is the difference between sterilization and aseptic technique?

Back

Sterilization is the complete elimination of all microorganisms, while aseptic technique involves practices to prevent contamination and maintain sterility during procedures.

Front

What type of energy does an ESU (Bovie) use?

Back

An ESU uses high-frequency electrical energy to cut tissue and coagulate blood vessels during surgery.

Front

What are the potential risks of air in the chest cavity during a waterseal chest drain procedure?

Back

Air in the chest cavity can lead to pneumothorax, which can collapse the lung and impair breathing.

Front

What is the role of the harmonic scalpel in surgery?

Back

The harmonic scalpel uses ultrasonic vibrations to cut and coagulate tissue simultaneously, minimizing thermal damage.

Front

What is the primary function of the gallbladder?

Back

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile, which is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.