AORN AORN Surgical Counts

Question 1

When must the initial surgical count be performed?

Accepted Answer

Before the procedure begins, before the incision is made

Answer

After the incision is made

Answer

At the time of wound closure

Answer

At the end of the procedure

Question 2

Which items are included in the standard surgical count according to AORN guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Sponges, sharps, and instruments

Answer

Only sponges and sharps

Answer

Only instruments and needles

Answer

Only soft goods like sponges and towels

Question 3

Who is responsible for performing and reconciling surgical counts in the OR?

Accepted Answer

The scrub person and the circulating nurse together

Answer

The surgeon alone

Answer

The anesthesia provider

Answer

The surgical technologist alone

Question 4

What action should be taken if a closing count does not reconcile?

Accepted Answer

Inform the surgeon immediately and search the field, patient, and environment before closure

Answer

Proceed with closure and document the discrepancy

Answer

Recount only the sponges

Answer

Notify the charge nurse and continue the case

Question 5

How should items used in the sterile field be tracked to facilitate accurate counting?

Accepted Answer

Items should be kept together in the sterile field and not removed unless accounted for

Answer

Items can be discarded off the field at any time

Answer

Only the scrub tech needs to track field items

Answer

Items are tracked only at the closing count

Question 6

What is the correct method for counting sponges according to AORN?

Accepted Answer

Count each sponge individually in groups of five, audibly and visibly confirming each

Answer

Count the entire bundle at once to save time

Answer

Count only the sponges used, not the unused ones

Answer

Count only once at closure