Top 10 Questions for Certified Surgical Technician Interview

1. Describe the steps involved in preparing a surgical site for an operation and the equipment you use?

Assistant responsibilities during surgical site preparation:

• Gown and glove in sterile attire.
• Prep the site with antiseptic solution.
• Drape the site with sterile towels.
• Secure the towels with towel clips.

Equipment used:

• Antiseptic solution
• Sterile towels
• Towel clips
• Gloves
• Gown

2. Explain the role of a Certified Surgical Technician in maintaining a sterile field?

Preventing Contamination

• Wear sterile gloves and gowns.
• Handle sterile instruments and supplies carefully.
• Avoid touching non-sterile objects.

Maintaining Sterility

• Keep the sterile field dry and free from debris.
• Change drapes and towels as needed.
• Monitor the integrity of the sterile field and report any breaches.

3. What are the key principles of instrument handling during a surgical procedure?

Principles of Instrument Handling

• Hold instruments correctly and securely.
• Pass and receive instruments carefully.
• Keep instruments sharp and in good working order.
• Handle instruments with care to avoid damage.
• Dispose of instruments properly.

4. Describe the process of counting surgical instruments, sponges, and needles before, during, and after a surgical procedure.

Counting Process

• Before: Count all instruments, sponges, and needles as they are opened.
• During: Count all instruments, sponges, and needles as they are used and discarded.
• After: Count all instruments, sponges, and needles to ensure that none are missing.

Importance

• Prevents retained foreign objects in the patient.
• Maintains patient safety.
• Ensures accountability for all surgical items.

5. What is the importance of proper suctioning during surgery?

Importance of Suctioning

• Clears the surgical field of blood and fluids, improving visibility.
• Prevents aspiration of fluids into the patient’s lungs.
• Helps maintain a sterile environment.
• Assists in hemostasis.

6. Explain the different types of sutures and their appropriate uses.

Types of Sutures

• Absorbable: Degrade over time within the body.
• Non-absorbable: Remain permanently in the body.

Appropriate Uses

• Absorbable: Skin closure, internal wound layers.
• Non-absorbable: Wound closure under tension, permanent tissue repair.

7. How do you ensure patient safety during the induction and emergence of anesthesia?

Induction of Anesthesia:

• Monitor vital signs closely.
• Assist with airway management.
• Provide emotional support to the patient.

Emergence of Anesthesia:

• Monitor vital signs until stable.
• Assist with extubation.
• Provide post-anesthesia care instructions.

8. What are the ethical considerations in surgical technology?

Ethical Considerations

• Patient confidentiality
• Patient autonomy
• Informed consent
• Do no harm
• Respect for life

9. Describe your experience with laparoscopic and robotic surgeries.

Laparoscopic Surgery:

• Assisted with camera and instrument manipulation.
• Maintained sterile field and equipment.
• Monitored patient’s vital signs.

Robotic Surgery:

• Operated the robotic camera and instruments.
• Collaborated with the surgeon to perform delicate procedures.
• Ensured patient and equipment safety.

10. What is your understanding of the role of a Certified Surgical Technician in the operating room?

Role of a Certified Surgical Technician

• Assists the surgical team with all aspects of surgery.
• Maintains a sterile environment.
• Handles and counts surgical instruments and supplies.
• Monitors patient’s vital signs.
• Provides emotional support to the patient and family.

Certified Surgical Technicians (CSTs) play a crucial role in assisting surgeons and other medical professionals during surgical procedures. Their primary responsibilities include:

1. Preoperative Preparation

CSTs prepare patients for surgery by:

• Verifying patient identity and medical history
• Preparing the surgical site and draping the patient
• Setting up and testing surgical equipment
• Ensuring availability of necessary supplies

2. Intraoperative Assistance

During surgery, CSTs assist by:

• Passing instruments and supplies to the surgical team
• Maintaining the sterile field
• Monitoring patient’s vital signs and reporting any changes
• Assisting with wound closure and dressing

3. Postoperative Care

After surgery, CSTs assist with:

• Cleaning and disinfecting the operating room
• Preparing patients for recovery
• Handling and transporting surgical specimens
• Documenting surgical procedures and patient outcomes

4. Equipment Maintenance

CSTs maintain surgical equipment by:

• Inspecting and cleaning instruments
• Sharpening and calibrating equipment
• Ensuring proper storage and usage of equipment

Preparing thoroughly can increase your chances of landing the Certified Surgical Technician position. Here are some tips:

1. Research the Organization

Learn about the hospital or clinic where you’re interviewing. Understand their mission, values, and areas of specialization. This knowledge will help you connect your skills and experience to the organization’s needs.

2. Practice Your Responses

Prepare for common interview questions by practicing your answers. Focus on highlighting your technical skills, surgical experience, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Use examples from your previous roles to demonstrate your capabilities.

3. Dress Professionally

First impressions matter. Dress in professional attire that is clean, conservative, and comfortable. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or perfume.

4. Be Punctual

Arrive on time for your interview. Punctuality shows respect for the interviewer’s time and indicates that you are organized and responsible.

5. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Prepare questions to ask the interviewer at the end of the interview. This shows that you’re engaged and interested in the position. Ask about the hospital’s culture, opportunities for growth, and the specific responsibilities of the role.