Instrument Identification and Maintenance Flashcards

What does persistent black or brown staining on stainless steel indicate?

Answer: Heat damage from improper use or sterilizer malfunction

Persistent discoloration indicates thermal damage that altered the metal's surface composition.

What does a 'sprung' instrument mean?

Answer: Jaw tips do not meet because the hinge was forced beyond design capacity

A sprung instrument has misaligned jaws from excessive force beyond its design limits.

How should rongeurs and bone-cutting instruments be tested?

Answer: By checking that the jaw closes flush with clean-cutting edges and no gaps

Jaws must close completely and evenly with sharp cutting edges that meet flush.

What is the purpose of instrument tracking systems using barcodes or RFID?

Answer: To track location, usage history, processing records, and enable rapid recall

Tracking systems provide complete lifecycle management including location, processing history, and recall capability.

What indicates tissue forceps require replacement?

Answer: Teeth are bent, missing, or do not interdigitate properly

Tissue forceps must have perfectly aligned teeth that interdigitate smoothly.

How should powered surgical instruments be inspected in SPD?

Answer: Following manufacturer IFU for housing integrity, trigger function, chuck coupling, and cord condition

Powered instruments require manufacturer-specific inspection of housing, controls, coupling mechanisms, and cords.