Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a major source of distress for toddler and preschool age patients being transported to the operating room?

1. Fear of anesthesia

2. Separation anxiety

3. Room temperature change

4. Lack of communication

The correct answer is: Separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is a significant source of distress for toddler and preschool age patients during transport to the operating room. At this developmental stage, children often experience strong attachments to their primary caregivers, and being separated from them can lead to intense fear and anxiety. The transition to a medical environment, which is typically unfamiliar and can cause confusion, exacerbates these feelings. Regarding the other options, while fear of anesthesia, room temperature change, and lack of communication can indeed affect a child's comfort and psychological state, they do not generally have the same profound impact as separation anxiety. Toddler and preschool age children are particularly sensitive to being away from their parents or guardians, which can lead to heightened emotional distress and behavioral responses during medical procedures. Understanding this anxiety allows healthcare providers to implement strategies, such as involving a parent in the process or providing comfort items, to help ease the child's fears during this vulnerable time.