TheoryAST CST Study Guide
Study for the AST CST with exam topics, practice questions, a free PDF, video walkthrough and timed mock exam links.
How to study for AST CST
- Read the topic list so you know what the exam is likely to cover.
- Answer the free practice questions and read every explanation.
- Download the PDF for offline review.
- Use timed mock exams when your untimed practice feels comfortable.
Topics to review
- Safe and effective care environment
- Health promotion and maintenance
- Psychosocial and physiological integrity
- Pharmacology, infection control and patient safety
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Q1Which of the following is NOT one of the standards of clinical nursing practice directly related to the nursing process?
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✓ Correct answer: coordination
The standards of Clinical Nursing Practice are directly related to the nursing process. They include: assessment, diagnosis, planning, implementation, and evaluation. These clinical standards use the steps of the nursing process to help achieve the ANA standards of professional performance.
Q2What is required for the insertion of a central venous pressure (CVP) catheter?
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✓ Correct answer: A sterile setup
To successfully insert a central venous pressure (CVP) catheter, a sterile setup is necessary. This is essential to prevent the introduction of any harmful bacteria or other contaminants into the patient's bloodstream. A sterile setup includes the use of sterile gloves, sterile drapes, sterile catheter insertion kit, and ensuring that all equipment and surfaces are properly sterilized.<br/><br/>Option B) A crash cart is incorrect. A crash cart is used in emergency situations to store medications, equipment, and supplies used during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is not directly related to the insertion of a CVP catheter.<br/><br/>Option C) An IV technician is incorrect. While it may be helpful to have an experienced IV technician present during the procedure, it is not a necessary step for a successful CVP catheter insertion. The responsibility of ensuring a sterile setup and proper insertion technique lies with the healthcare provider performing the procedure.<br/><br/>Option D) None of the above is incorrect. A sterile setup is required for a successful CVP catheter insertion, making option D an incorrect answer.<br/><br/>In summary, a successful CVP catheter insertion necessitates a sterile setup to minimize the risk of infection and ensure patient safety.
Q3Geriatric patients are particularly susceptible to the following conditions, with the exception of:
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✓ Correct answer: Gallbladder disease
Geriatric patients are particularly susceptible to various health conditions, but gallbladder disease is not typically one of them. As individuals age, their risk for certain conditions increases, so it is important to be aware of these vulnerabilities. However, gallbladder disease is not commonly associated with aging. <br/><br/>Option A (Infection) As individuals age, their immune system may weaken, making them more susceptible to infections. Infections can range from respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, to skin infections. It is crucial to monitor and treat infections promptly in geriatric patients to prevent complications.<br/><br/>Option B (Poor wound healing) Geriatric patients often have slower healing rates for wounds, whether it be surgical wounds, pressure ulcers, or simple cuts. The aging process affects the body's ability to repair and regenerate tissues, leading to delayed healing. Effective wound care is important to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of infection.<br/><br/>Option C (Cardiovascular problems) Geriatric patients commonly experience cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. The aging process, along with factors such as lifestyle choices and genetics, contribute to the increased susceptibility to these conditions. Regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical interventions are necessary to manage cardiovascular health in older individuals.<br/><br/>It is important to understand the unique health challenges faced by geriatric patients in order to provide appropriate care and prevent further complications. While gallbladder disease is not a condition typically associated with geriatric patients, healthcare professionals should remain vigilant and address any health concerns promptly.
Q4Which statement best describes the active surgical hand scrub procedure?
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✓ Correct answer: Time or number of strokes, hand to elbow sequence
An active surgical hand scrub is a critical step in maintaining a sterile environment during surgery. It involves thoroughly cleaning the hands and forearms to eliminate any microorganisms that may be present.<br/><br/>Option A (Time, no anatomical sequence) is incorrect because it does not consider the importance of following a specific anatomical sequence during the scrub. The hand to elbow sequence ensures that all areas are properly cleaned, reducing the risk of contamination.<br/><br/>Option B (Number of strokes, no anatomical sequence) is also incorrect because it neglects the necessary anatomical sequence. Simply counting the number of strokes without following a specific pattern may result in missed areas or inadequate cleaning.<br/><br/>Option D (Number of strokes, elbow to hand sequence) is incorrect because it reverses the anatomical sequence. Starting from the elbow and moving towards the hand can lead to cross-contamination from areas that are already cleaned to areas that are still dirty.<br/><br/>The correct answer, C) Time or number of strokes, hand to elbow sequence, encapsulates the essential elements of an active surgical hand scrub. This ensures that each part of the hand and forearm is adequately cleaned through a systematic process, reducing the risk of surgical site infections.
Q5When is the flash sterilizer typically used?
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✓ Correct answer: Only when there is no other alternative is available
These sterilizers are typically located just outside the operating suite.<br/><br/>They are typically used only when there is no other alternative.<br/><br/>Unwrapped items coming from the immediate-use sterilizers will be wet because there is no drying cycle for unwrapped items.<br/><br/>The term flash sterilizer has been replaced with the term immediate-use sterilizer.
Q6Which stapler would be utilized for a laparoscopic procedure?
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✓ Correct answer: Endo GIA linear cutter
The endo GIA stapler is the only stapler that can be used endoscopically.
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