NBSTSA Surgical Counts & Safety Protocols

Question 1

According to AORN guidelines, when should the initial (first) surgical count be performed?

Accepted Answer

Before the procedure begins as items are being opened onto the sterile field

Answer

After the patient is positioned but before incision

Answer

After the surgeon makes the initial incision

Answer

Immediately before wound closure begins

Question 2

During an abdominal case, the scrub tech and circulator discover a discrepant sponge count at wound closure. What is the FIRST action to take?

Accepted Answer

Immediately notify the surgeon before closure proceeds

Answer

Recount all sponges before notifying anyone

Answer

Ask the surgeon to close and recount afterward

Answer

Document the discrepancy and notify the charge nurse

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of the Universal Protocol (Time-Out) immediately before surgical incision?

Accepted Answer

To prevent wrong-site, wrong-procedure, and wrong-patient surgery

Answer

To verify the surgical team has all necessary instruments

Answer

To confirm the anesthesia machine is properly calibrated

Answer

To ensure the correct implants are available in the room

Question 4

Surgical sponges used inside body cavities must contain which feature to assist in detecting a retained item?

Accepted Answer

A radiopaque (X-ray detectable) strip

Answer

A bright blue color for visual contrast

Answer

A unique barcode for electronic tracking

Answer

A numbered label on each sponge

Question 5

Which of the following item categories must be counted on every surgical case?

Accepted Answer

Sponges, sharps, and instruments

Answer

Suture needles only

Answer

Sponges and sharps only

Answer

Only items opened after the initial count

Question 6

During a surgical time-out, who has the authority to pause the procedure if a discrepancy or safety concern is identified?

Accepted Answer

Any member of the surgical team

Answer

Only the attending surgeon

Answer

Only the anesthesia provider

Answer

Only the circulating nurse