TL;DR

Surgical Pharmacology: Intraoperative medications: anesthetics, antibiotics, hemostatic agents, irrigating solutions, contrast media.

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Surgical Pharmacology

CST SURGICAL TECH

Definition

Intraoperative medications: anesthetics, antibiotics, hemostatic agents, irrigating solutions, contrast media.

Workplace Applications

In daily practice, surgical pharmacology is applied consistently according to facility protocols and current evidence-based guidelines. Competency is maintained through annual skills validation, continuing education, and quality improvement participation.

Calculation Methods

Relevant parameters for surgical pharmacology in the surgical setting:

Steam (autoclave): Saturated steam under pressure. Gravity: 250 F (121 C) x 30 min. Prevacuum: 270 F (132 C) x 4 min. Flash: 270 F x 3 min (unwrapped)
ETO (ethylene oxide): Chemical gas sterilization. 600mg/L concentration, 130 F, 2-5 hours exposure, 8-12 hours aeration. For heat/moisture-sensitive items

Assessment Techniques

Intraoperative medications: anesthetics, antibiotics, hemostatic agents, irrigating solutions, contrast media. Surgical pharmacology and sterile field labeling tested on CST exam.

Related instrumentation: Needle holder (Suturing) for Holds suture needles, tungsten carbide inserts for grip, box lock mechanism.

Overview

Intraoperative medications: anesthetics, antibiotics, hemostatic agents, irrigating solutions, contrast media. Surgical pharmacology and sterile field labeling tested on CST exam.

Related instrumentation: Army-Navy retractor (Retraction) for Shallow wound retraction, handheld, double-ended.

Key Values & Ranges

Intraoperative medications: anesthetics, antibiotics, hemostatic agents, irrigating solutions, contrast media. Surgical pharmacology and sterile field labeling tested on CST exam.

Related instrumentation: Kelly clamp (Clamping) for Hemostasis on medium vessels, half-serrated jaws.

Differential Diagnosis

When studying surgical pharmacology, carefully distinguish it from related but distinct concepts: hemostasis, sterile technique. Exam questions often test your ability to select the most specific and appropriate answer when multiple options seem partially correct. Look for the option that most completely addresses the scenario presented.

Why It Matters

Surgical pharmacology and sterile field labeling tested on CST exam.

Related Terms

Hemostasis Sterile Technique

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Frequently Asked Questions

What instruments are used for surgical pharmacology?▼

For surgical pharmacology: Bovie (ESU) (Electrosurgery): Cut (continuous waveform) and coag (interrupted waveform) modes for hemostasis. Allis clamp (Grasping): Grasping tissue without crushing (bowel, fascia), traumatic teeth. Army-Navy retractor (Retraction): Shallow wound retraction, handheld, double-ended.

What is the counting procedure for surgical pharmacology?▼

For surgical pharmacology: Sharps counted on a needle counter/magnet, broken needles: account for all pieces. Closing counts: first closing count (deep layers), second closing count (skin closure). Add-on items must be counted when added and at subsequent count times.

What sterile technique rules apply to surgical pharmacology?▼

For surgical pharmacology: Sterile drapes are placed from the operative site outward (near to far). Moisture strikes through: wet drapes are contaminated, use impervious drapes and keep the field dry. Only sterile items may be placed on a sterile field.