Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

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Study for the Certified Surgical Technologist Exam. Prepare with multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations. Enhance your understanding and boost your confidence for acing the exam!

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What is the primary purpose of an electrosurgical unit?

Providing fluid replacement
Creating incisions
Coagulating tissue
Monitoring vital signs

The correct answer is: Coagulating tissue

The primary purpose of an electrosurgical unit is to coagulate tissue. Electrosurgical units use high-frequency electrical currents to cut tissue and simultaneously coagulate blood vessels. This ability to coagulate minimizes bleeding during surgical procedures, enhancing visibility for the surgeon and reducing the risk of complications related to excessive blood loss. While creating incisions is a function of electrosurgery, the more critical and distinctive role of these units lies in their coagulation capabilities, which are essential for maintaining hemostasis during operations. Providing fluid replacement and monitoring vital signs are vital components of perioperative care but are not functions of the electrosurgical unit itself.