Surgical Counts & Documentation Flashcards
7 cards from real CST practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Surgical Counts & Documentation flashcards as text
When new items are added to the sterile field during a procedure, what must occur?
Answer: Count them immediately with the circulator and document the addition
Items added to the sterile field during the procedure must be counted with the circulator immediately and documented to keep the running count accurate at all times.
Who is responsible for documenting surgical count results in the perioperative record?
Answer: The circulating nurse documents counts in the perioperative nursing record
The circulating nurse is responsible for documenting count results, any discrepancies, and corrective actions taken in the perioperative nursing record.
What is the correct method for managing sharps such as needles and blades during counting?
Answer: Count individually and contain in a designated needle counter or magnetic pad
Sharps are counted individually and contained in a designated needle counter or magnetic pad, ensuring accurate tracking and protecting personnel from injury.
When the scrub technician is permanently relieved by another during a procedure, what must happen?
Answer: A complete count must be performed at the exact time of relief
A complete count must be performed at the time of permanent relief to formally transfer accountability for all sterile field items to the incoming scrub technician.
What is the primary purpose of the 'closing count' in a surgical procedure?
Answer: To verify all items are accounted for before wound closure begins
The closing count verifies that all sponges, sharps, instruments, and miscellaneous items are accounted for before wound closure, preventing retained surgical items.
If a count cannot be reconciled after a thorough search of the field and room, what is the mandatory next step?
Answer: Obtain an intraoperative X-ray before closing the wound
When a count cannot be reconciled, an intraoperative X-ray must be obtained before wound closure to identify any items retained within the surgical site.
Which statement best describes the 'one-at-a-time' principle applied during surgical counts?
Answer: Each item must be counted and acknowledged individually rather than in groups
The one-at-a-time principle requires each individual item to be separately counted and verbally confirmed, eliminating grouping errors that can lead to miscounts.