CRCST Chapter 20 Practice Test: Inventory Management and Distribution

Central Service departments manage vast inventories of instruments, supplies, and devices that must be available when and where clinical areas need them. This chapter covers inventory control systems, par levels, case cart systems, preference card management, and distribution methods. You will learn the principles of demand forecasting, economic order quantity, FIFO stock rotation, and how to manage consignment instruments and loaner trays from vendors. The chapter also covers asset tracking technologies (barcode, RFID), the importance of accurate preference cards for surgical case support, and how to manage stat and emergency requests. Efficient inventory management reduces expired waste, prevents surgical delays, and ensures the right instruments reach the right OR at the right time.