Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which part of the small intestine follows the duodenum?

1. Jejunum

2. Ileum

3. Cecum

4. Colon

The correct answer is: Jejunum

The jejunum follows the duodenum as the second segment of the small intestine. After the duodenum, which is primarily responsible for the initial phase of digestion and the mixing of food with digestive juices from the pancreas and bile from the liver, the jejunum continues the digestive process. The jejunum plays a critical role in the absorption of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and many vitamins and minerals. It has a larger diameter and thicker walls compared to the duodenum and is characterized by a greater surface area due to its numerous folds and villi, enhancing its ability to absorb nutrients effectively. The next portion of the small intestine after the jejunum is the ileum, which has a different role, primarily focused on absorbing vitamin B12 and bile salts. The cecum and colon are parts of the large intestine and follow the small intestine, making them part of a different section of the gastrointestinal tract altogether. Understanding the structure and function of the small intestine is vital for surgical technologists, as it helps inform procedures related to gastrointestinal surgeries and the management of intestinal health.