NBSTSA CERTIFICATION EXAM – QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS | VERIFIED AND WELL DETAILED
ANSWERS | PLUS RATIONALES | GUARANTEED
PASS | LATEST EXAM UPDATE
Core Domains
Perioperative Case Management
Surgical Care and
Pharmacology
Anatomy, Physiology, and
Microbiology
Sterilization and
Disinfection
Intraoperative
Procedures
Equipment and Surgical
Instrumentation
Professionalism and
Ethics
Introduction
,The NBSTSA Certification Exam is designed to evaluate
the competency of individuals seeking professional
certification in surgical technology. The purpose of this
comprehensive assessment is to ensure that candidates
possess the specialized skills and theoretical knowledge
required to provide safe and effective patient care in the
operating room. This exam covers foundational
sciences, clinical procedures, and professional
responsibilities through a rigorous mix of multiple-choice
and scenario-based questions. By emphasizing real-
world application and critical decision-making, the
assessment prepares candidates for the fast-paced
surgical environment where precision, ethical standards,
and adherence to regulatory compliance are paramount
for successful outcomes.
SECTION ONE: QUESTIONS 1–100
1. Which of the following is the most effective method
for monitoring the effectiveness of the steam
sterilization process?
,A. Chemical indicators
B. External tape indicators
C. Biological indicators
D. Mechanical monitors
🟢 C. Biological indicators
🔴 Explanation: Biological indicators containing
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the only
method that truly confirms all microorganisms, including
highly resistant spores, have been killed during the
sterilization cycle.
2. During a surgical procedure, the surgical
technologist notices a small hole in their glove.
What is the immediate next step?
A. Cover the hole with another glove
B. Request a new pair of gloves and change them
immediately
C. Wait until the end of the current step to change
D. Ignore it if the hole is small
, 🟢 B. Request a new pair of gloves and change them
immediately
🔴 Explanation: To maintain the integrity of the sterile
field and prevent cross-contamination, a compromised
glove must be replaced as soon as the breach is
recognized.
3. Which organ is responsible for the production of
bile?
A. Gallbladder
B. Pancreas
C. Liver
D. Spleen
🟢 C. Liver
🔴 Explanation: The liver produces bile, which is then
stored and concentrated in the gallbladder until it is
needed for digestion in the small intestine.
4. In the event of a fire in the operating room, what
does the "R" in the RACE acronym stand for?
ANSWERS | VERIFIED AND WELL DETAILED
ANSWERS | PLUS RATIONALES | GUARANTEED
PASS | LATEST EXAM UPDATE
Core Domains
Perioperative Case Management
Surgical Care and
Pharmacology
Anatomy, Physiology, and
Microbiology
Sterilization and
Disinfection
Intraoperative
Procedures
Equipment and Surgical
Instrumentation
Professionalism and
Ethics
Introduction
,The NBSTSA Certification Exam is designed to evaluate
the competency of individuals seeking professional
certification in surgical technology. The purpose of this
comprehensive assessment is to ensure that candidates
possess the specialized skills and theoretical knowledge
required to provide safe and effective patient care in the
operating room. This exam covers foundational
sciences, clinical procedures, and professional
responsibilities through a rigorous mix of multiple-choice
and scenario-based questions. By emphasizing real-
world application and critical decision-making, the
assessment prepares candidates for the fast-paced
surgical environment where precision, ethical standards,
and adherence to regulatory compliance are paramount
for successful outcomes.
SECTION ONE: QUESTIONS 1–100
1. Which of the following is the most effective method
for monitoring the effectiveness of the steam
sterilization process?
,A. Chemical indicators
B. External tape indicators
C. Biological indicators
D. Mechanical monitors
🟢 C. Biological indicators
🔴 Explanation: Biological indicators containing
Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores are the only
method that truly confirms all microorganisms, including
highly resistant spores, have been killed during the
sterilization cycle.
2. During a surgical procedure, the surgical
technologist notices a small hole in their glove.
What is the immediate next step?
A. Cover the hole with another glove
B. Request a new pair of gloves and change them
immediately
C. Wait until the end of the current step to change
D. Ignore it if the hole is small
, 🟢 B. Request a new pair of gloves and change them
immediately
🔴 Explanation: To maintain the integrity of the sterile
field and prevent cross-contamination, a compromised
glove must be replaced as soon as the breach is
recognized.
3. Which organ is responsible for the production of
bile?
A. Gallbladder
B. Pancreas
C. Liver
D. Spleen
🟢 C. Liver
🔴 Explanation: The liver produces bile, which is then
stored and concentrated in the gallbladder until it is
needed for digestion in the small intestine.
4. In the event of a fire in the operating room, what
does the "R" in the RACE acronym stand for?
