AORN Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Question 1

What is the purpose of the surgical safety checklist?

Accepted Answer

To improve communication and reduce the risk of errors

Answer

To reduce the duration of surgical procedures

Answer

To ensure that all surgical equipment is sterilized

Answer

To monitor the patient's vital signs during surgery

Question 2

Which is the first action a nurse should take during an intraoperative cardiac arrest?

Accepted Answer

Alert the surgical team and initiate emergency protocols

Answer

Notify the patient’s family immediately

Answer

Begin documenting the event in detail

Answer

Prepare the patient for transfer to the recovery room

Question 3

What is the most effective way to prevent retained surgical items?

Accepted Answer

Performing a meticulous instrument and sponge count

Answer

Conducting a thorough surgical site cleaning

Answer

Allowing only the surgeon to handle surgical sponges

Answer

Using disposable instruments for all procedures

Question 4

What is the nurse’s role during a fire in the operating room?

Accepted Answer

Extinguishing the fire and immediately evacuating the patient

Answer

Protecting the patient and maintaining the sterile field

Answer

Documenting the incident while the surgical team handles the fire

Answer

Turning off all lights and electrical equipment in the room

Question 5

Which of the following is an appropriate action if a nurse notices a possible allergic reaction during surgery?

Accepted Answer

Alert the surgical team and follow emergency protocols

Answer

Ignore the reaction and document it postoperatively

Answer

Administer an antihistamine without informing the surgeon

Answer

Remove the patient from the operating room immediately