Instruments & Equipment Management Flashcards

What is the correct action if a sponge count is incorrect at the time of wound closure?

Answer: Inform the surgeon immediately and search the wound and field

An incorrect count requires immediate notification of the surgeon and a thorough search of the wound, field, and room before closure proceeds.

Which type of endoscope uses a rigid tube and lens system, such as those used in cystoscopy?

Answer: Rigid rod-lens endoscope

A rigid rod-lens endoscope uses a series of glass rods and lenses within a rigid metal sheath and is used in procedures like cystoscopy and arthroscopy.

During a laparoscopic procedure, CO2 insufflation pressure is typically maintained at:

Answer: 12–15 mmHg

Intraabdominal CO2 pressure is typically maintained between 12–15 mmHg to create adequate pneumoperitoneum for visualization without compromising ventilation.

Which instrument is used to cut and remove pieces of cartilage or bone in small, biting increments?

Answer: Rongeur

A rongeur has a punching action with cup-shaped jaws to nibble away small fragments of bone or cartilage.

Which parameter on an electrosurgical unit (ESU) should the scrub technician verify before activating the unit?

Answer: The grounding pad is properly placed on the patient

Proper placement of the patient return electrode (grounding pad) is essential to prevent burns at a site remote from the operative field.

What is the primary advantage of absorbable suture over non-absorbable suture?

Answer: Elimination of the need for suture removal in deep tissues

Absorbable sutures are broken down by the body's enzymes or hydrolysis, making them ideal for internal layers where removal would be impossible.

Which instrument is used to facilitate passage of a suture around a vessel or deep structure?

Answer: Right-angle (Mixter) clamp

A right-angle (Mixter) clamp has a 90-degree jaw that passes around vessels or ducts to grasp a suture or ligature for ligation.