Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

Which nerves are typically affected in the lithotomy position?

1. Radial, ulnar, median

2. Peroneal, saphenous, obturator

3. Femoral, sciatic, tibial

4. Gluteal, axillary, cranial

The correct answer is: Peroneal, saphenous, obturator

The choice identifying the peroneal, saphenous, and obturator nerves as typically affected in the lithotomy position is correct because this position can create specific pressures and strains on the lower limbs and pelvis, impacting these particular nerves. When a patient is placed in lithotomy, which involves the legs being elevated and held in stirrups, there are risks associated with nerve compression. The peroneal nerve runs close to the fibula and can be compressed when the legs are placed in such a position, leading to foot drop or weakness in dorsiflexion. Additionally, the saphenous nerve, a branch of the femoral nerve, can be affected due to its superficial path along the leg, potentially causing sensory deficits along the inner thigh and leg. Lastly, the obturator nerve, which innervates the medial compartment of the thigh, may also be at risk due to the positioning of the legs during surgery. In contrast, the other options include nerves that are either not typically involved in this specific position or are located in areas less susceptible to compression in the lithotomy setup. Understanding the anatomy and potential points of compression is crucial for preventing nerve injuries during surgical procedures.