Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

What must be done prior to positioning a patient undergoing a posterior lumbar laminectomy?

1. Attachment of arm boards

2. Padding of the knees

3. Endotracheal intubation

4. Skin prep

The correct answer is: Endotracheal intubation

Prior to positioning a patient undergoing a posterior lumbar laminectomy, endotracheal intubation is essential to secure the airway, especially during surgeries requiring general anesthesia. This step ensures that the patient can be safely ventilated and monitored throughout the procedure, minimizing the risk of airway complications. While the other choices relate to patient positioning and preparation, they do not take precedence over securing the airway. For instance, attachment of arm boards and padding of the knees are important for patient comfort and safety during the procedure, but these measures come after ensuring that the patient is adequately intubated and stable. Skin prep is also performed at a later stage to reduce the risk of infection, typically occurring after the patient has been positioned and anesthesia is secured. Prioritizing airway management aligns with established protocols in surgical settings, emphasizing patient safety throughout the entire surgical process.