Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

The goal of the surgical scrub is to minimize which type of flora?

1. Parasitic

2. Resident

3. Transient

4. Enteric

The correct answer is: Resident

The primary goal of the surgical scrub is to minimize transient flora on the skin. Transient flora consists of microorganisms that have not established themselves as permanent residents on the skin's surface. These organisms are often acquired through contact with contaminated surfaces, equipment, or other individuals. During a surgical scrub, antiseptic agents are used to significantly reduce the number of these transient organisms, which are more likely to cause surgical site infections if introduced into the sterile field. While resident flora, which are normally found on the skin and are more stable, are not as easily eradicated, they typically pose a lower risk during surgery because they are less likely to be pathogenic in healthy individuals. The focus on minimizing transient flora is critical in maintaining a sterile environment, thereby enhancing patient safety during surgical procedures. Other types of flora, such as enteric and parasitic, are not the main concern during the surgical scrub process as their relevance to the surgical site infection risks varies and is not as immediate as that of transient flora.