Surgical Instrumentation Flashcards

When a technician looks through a rigid endoscope, the image is cloudy or hazy. What does this most likely mean?

Answer: Fluid has entered the scope through a damaged seal

Cloudiness usually means moisture got past a failed seal, and the scope must go out for repair.

Which of these retractors is self-retaining?

Answer: Weitlaner

The Weitlaner has a ratchet that holds it open without anyone holding it; the others are hand-held.

What does passivation do to a stainless steel instrument during manufacturing?

Answer: Forms a protective chromium oxide layer that resists corrosion

Passivation removes free iron and strengthens the chromium oxide film that protects the steel from corrosion.

Small pits appear on instruments that were left soaking in saline for a long time. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Chloride exposure

The chlorides in saline break down the passive layer of stainless steel and cause pitting corrosion.

During assembly, a technician finds a hairline crack in a needle holder's box lock. What is the correct action?

Answer: Remove it from service for repair or replacement

A cracked box lock can break during surgery, so the instrument must be taken out of service at once.

How should ratcheted instruments be positioned in a set before sterilization?

Answer: Open or closed only on the first ratchet tooth

Keeping ratchets open or on the first tooth lets the sterilant reach the box lock and prevents stress cracks.

When cleaning a pneumatic (air-powered) surgical drill, what should be done with the air hose?

Answer: Leave it connected to the handpiece so fluid cannot enter, following the IFU

Leaving the hose attached seals the air inlet so cleaning fluids cannot get into the motor.