Question 1 of 10
You are scrubbed on an abdominal case and the suction suddenly becomes ineffective because the tip appears clogged. Walk me through your troubleshooting sequence and what you would avoid.
Strong Interview Answer
I would maintain sterility, acknowledge the problem to the surgeon/team, check the safe obvious causes such as the tip/tubing connection or obstruction using the approved technique, and replace the sterile suction component if patency cannot be restored safely. I would not insert a sharp into active tubing, contaminate the system, or use excessive suction as a workaround.
What to Listen For
- maintains sterility
- communicates the problem
- safe troubleshooting sequence
- sterile replacement when needed
- avoids sharps/unsafe force
Caution
A strong answer describes a safe sequence and stays within the CST role; it does not improvise a hazardous repair.