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
What must be documented when a surgical count cannot be performed due to a life-threatening emergency?
Answer: The reason the count was not performed must be documented in the perioperative record
Even when a count is omitted due to life-threatening emergency, the reason must be documented in the perioperative record to ensure an accurate and complete account of care provided.
How should soiled sponges be managed during a procedure to maintain count integrity?
Answer: Handed to the circulator who places them in a designated container within the OR
Soiled sponges are handed to the circulator who places them in a designated kick bucket or bag that remains in the OR, keeping them counted and accounted for until the procedure ends.
What does a 'reconciled count' mean in perioperative documentation?
Answer: A count in which all items match between the opening count, additions, and items present at closure
A reconciled count confirms that all items present at closure account for the opening count plus any intraoperative additions, with no unexplained discrepancy.
Which of the following is an example of a 'miscellaneous' item that must be included in the surgical count?
Answer: Vessel loops and umbilical tapes
Vessel loops and umbilical tapes are miscellaneous items used in the surgical field that must be counted because their small, flexible nature makes them prone to inadvertent retention.
What is the required protocol for inspecting drapes before they are removed from the OR?
Answer: Drapes must be carefully unfolded and inspected for concealed items before removal
All drapes, especially folded or pocketed ones, must be carefully unfolded and inspected before removal from the OR to ensure no sponges or sharps are hidden within the folds.
When must the surgeon be notified of a count discrepancy?
Answer: Immediately upon identifying the discrepancy, before any closure proceeds
The surgeon must be notified immediately upon identifying a count discrepancy so that closure can be halted and a thorough search conducted before the wound is closed.
What is the scrub technician's responsibility for instrument counts when multiple surgeons are operating simultaneously?
Answer: All instruments on the sterile field must be counted regardless of which surgeon used them
The scrub technician is accountable for the entire sterile field and must count all instruments regardless of which surgeon used them, as responsibility does not divide between surgeons.