Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Where should the safety strap be placed on a patient who is in the supine position?

1. Across the waist

2. Over the thighs

3. Below the knees

4. Across the abdomen

The correct answer is: Over the thighs

The safety strap should be placed over the thighs of a patient who is in the supine position. This placement is crucial as it helps to secure the patient effectively on the operating table, preventing any unintended movement that could occur during the surgical procedure. By positioning the strap over the thighs, it maintains patient safety while allowing for adequate access to the surgical site. Placing the strap across the abdomen or across the waist could potentially restrict respiratory function or cause discomfort, while positioning it below the knees may not provide sufficient stability or security to prevent sliding. Additionally, the thigh area offers a larger and more stable surface for the strap to grip, which helps ensure that patients remain securely in position throughout the operation.