CRCST Chapter 2 Practice Test: Medical Terminology for Central Service Technicians

Understanding medical terminology is foundational for sterile processing professionals. This chapter covers the building blocks of medical language — prefixes, suffixes, and root words — that allow technicians to decode instrument names, procedure types, and anatomical references. Mastery of terms like "osteo" (bone), "arthro" (joint), and "cardio" (heart) enables you to identify the purpose of surgical instruments on sight. For example, an osteotome cuts bone, while a rongeur grasps and removes it. The chapter also addresses abbreviations commonly used in surgical schedules, case carts, and physician preference cards. Knowing this vocabulary ensures accurate tray assembly, reduces pick errors, and improves communication with OR staff during urgent instrument requests.