AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which surgical instrument would be used during a penetrating thoracic injury?

1. Hemostat

2. Suction device

3. Fiberoptic scope

4. Scalpel

The correct answer is: Suction device

During a penetrating thoracic injury, the primary concern is managing the airway and evacuating blood or fluid from the thoracic cavity to ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation. A suction device is specifically designed for this purpose, as it can quickly remove blood, secretions, and other fluids that may obstruct the airway or fill the thoracic cavity. The suction device allows the surgical team to maintain visibility and access to the surgical site, which is crucial when dealing with the potential for significant hemorrhage or fluid accumulation that can compromise the patient's breathing. Immediate intervention with suction can be life-saving. Other instruments like the hemostat, fiberoptic scope, and scalpel serve different roles in the surgical setting. A hemostat is primarily used to control bleeding by clamping blood vessels, a fiberoptic scope is utilized for visualization of internal structures, and a scalpel is used for making incisions. While these instruments may play important roles in surgery, they do not directly address the urgent need to clear the airway or manage fluid in the context of a penetrating thoracic injury as effectively as a suction device does.