Instrument Identification and Maintenance Flashcards
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Read the first 5 Instrument Identification and Maintenance flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of inspecting surgical instruments before sterilization?
Answer: To ensure proper functionality and identify damage
Inspecting surgical instruments before sterilization is crucial not just for cleanliness, but primarily to verify their functionality and detect any damage or wear. Damaged instruments can compromise surgical procedures, injure patients or staff, and may not sterilize effectively. This step ensures only safe and functional instruments are processed for patient use.
Which type of scissors is identified by its blunt tips and is commonly used for cutting sutures?
Answer: Mayo scissors
Mayo scissors are characterized by their blunt tips and are designed for cutting heavy fascia and sutures. Their robust construction makes them suitable for tough tissues and materials, distinguishing them from finer scissors like Metzenbaum or Iris scissors used for delicate dissection.
What is the proper way to handle a hinged instrument like a clamp before sterilization?
Answer: Leave it partially open
Hinged instruments, such as clamps and forceps, must be left partially open or unlocked before sterilization. This allows steam or sterilant to penetrate all surfaces, including the box lock and serrations, ensuring complete sterilization. Closing them tightly would create areas where the sterilant cannot reach, leading to incomplete sterilization.
Which of the following instruments is most likely to require routine sharpening?
Answer: Surgical scissors
Surgical scissors are cutting instruments that rely on sharp blades for effective and clean dissection. Over time and with repeated use, their edges can dull, necessitating routine sharpening to maintain their cutting efficiency and prevent tissue trauma during surgery.
What is the first step in identifying an unknown surgical instrument?
Answer: Examine its shape, size, and function
The most logical first step in identifying an unknown surgical instrument is to carefully observe its physical characteristics. Its unique shape, size, and design features often provide clues about its intended function, which can then be cross-referenced with instrument guides or catalogs for definitive identification.