What action should the CST take when the circulator removes the drapes from the patient at the end of surgery?

When the circulator removes the drapes from the patient at the end of surgery, the appropriate action for the surgical technologist (CST) is to ensure that the back table and Mayo stand are moved to a safe distance. This is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing contamination after the drapes are removed.

After draping is taken off, the surgical site is exposed, and there is an increased risk of contamination from the instruments and materials that were previously on the sterile field. Moving the back table and Mayo helps to mitigate this risk, ensuring that any instruments do not accidentally come into contact with the patient's unprotected skin or surgical site.

This action also aids in the preparation for the next steps in the process, such as proper cleaning and instrument handling. When the sterile field is compromised or when there's an exposure of the surgical site, taking proactive measures like moving equipment helps maintain a controlled environment while ensuring that the procedure is concluded safely.