Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

What is considered an abnormal activated clotting time?

1. Less than 60 seconds

2. Normal range 60-120 seconds

3. More than 120 seconds

4. Between 90-150 seconds

The correct answer is: More than 120 seconds

The correct answer identifies an abnormal activated clotting time (ACT) as being more than 120 seconds. ACT is a test used to evaluate the coagulation status of a patient, particularly in surgical and anticoagulation contexts. An elevated ACT beyond the normal range indicates a prolonged clotting time, which can be caused by various factors, such as the presence of anticoagulant medications (e.g., heparin) or potential clotting disorders. In a typical scenario, a normal ACT is generally considered to fall within the range of 60 to 120 seconds, which reflects effective coagulation ability. When the ACT rises above 120 seconds, it signals a higher risk of bleeding during surgical procedures, necessitating careful management of anticoagulation therapy or additional interventions to ensure hemostasis. Understanding the significance of ACT values is crucial for surgical first assistants, as it relates directly to patient safety and procedural outcomes. Monitoring this parameter helps in making informed decisions regarding blood product administration and surgical technique adjustments.