Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

What is the primary focus of surgical technologists in the operating room?

1. Patient diagnosis

2. Instrument sterilization

3. Assisting surgical procedures

4. Administering anesthesia

The correct answer is: Assisting surgical procedures

The primary focus of surgical technologists in the operating room is to assist surgical procedures. This role encompasses a range of tasks that help ensure the surgery runs smoothly and safely. Surgical technologists are trained to handle surgical instruments, prepare the operating room, maintain a sterile environment, and anticipate the needs of the surgeon. Their responsibilities include passing instruments to the surgeon, holding retractors, and performing suctioning as needed during the operation. By providing direct support, they play a crucial role in facilitating the surgical team's effectiveness and efficiency. In contrast, other options would not be considered the primary focus of surgical technologists. For instance, patient diagnosis is typically the responsibility of the surgeon or medical staff, instrument sterilization, while important, is a preparatory task done prior to the surgery, and administering anesthesia is exclusively the role of anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists. Therefore, assisting in surgical procedures stands out as the central duty of a surgical technologist in the operating room.