Certified Surgical First Assistant (CSFA) Practice Test

Which action is NOT required in the lithotomy position?

1. Each leg raised slowly and gently as it is grasped by the toes

2. Support of the back and hips

3. Proper alignment of the legs

4. Monitoring of the patient's comfort

The correct answer is: Each leg raised slowly and gently as it is grasped by the toes

The correct answer is based on the understanding that the lithotomy position involves placing the patient on their back with their legs elevated and supported in such a way that the surgical team can access the pelvic area. The fundamental requirement for positioning in lithotomy primarily focuses on support and alignment, which ensures the safety and comfort of the patient throughout the procedure. In this context, raising each leg slowly and gently by grasping the toes is not a standardized or necessary action for achieving or maintaining the lithotomy position. Instead, appropriate support, ensuring the back and hips are stable, and aligning the legs correctly are essential to prevent strain or injury to the patient. Monitoring the patient's comfort is also critical, as the lithotomy position can be uncomfortable and may require regular assessments and adjustments. Thus, the emphasis on the actions required for the lithotomy position is on maintaining alignment, support, and proper monitoring rather than the specific method of raising the legs. This distinction helps clarify that while careful handling of the legs is important, the method of grasping them by the toes is not a requisite part of the positioning process.