Surgical Tech (Appleton & Lange) Part 4

Quality assurance programs are a criteria that identifies, measures, monitors, and evaluates patient care. These programs are designed to ensure that healthcare providers are delivering high-quality care to patients. They involve systematic processes for assessing and improving the quality of care, including setting standards, conducting audits, and implementing corrective actions when necessary. Quality assurance programs aim to enhance patient outcomes and safety by promoting evidence-based practices and continuous quality improvement.

An incident report is a document that is used to record any unexpected or adverse event that occurs during a patient's care. It is typically used for quality improvement purposes and is not meant to be included in the patient's official medical record, such as the OR record. Therefore, the notation being made on the patient's OR record is not applicable to an incident report.

Obese patients are at greater surgical risk because fat has poor vascularity. This means that there is a reduced blood supply to the fat tissue, making it more difficult for the surgical site to heal properly. Poor vascularity also increases the risk of complications such as infection and delayed wound healing. Additionally, the increased amount of fat in the body can make surgical procedures more challenging and increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.

Scatter radiation effects are directly related to the amount of radiation and the length of exposure time. This means that the more radiation a person is exposed to and the longer they are exposed, the greater the potential for scatter radiation effects. These effects can include damage to tissues and organs, increased risk of cancer, and other health problems. It is important to minimize exposure to radiation and limit the amount of time spent in areas with high radiation levels to reduce the risk of scatter radiation effects.

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) requires operative records documenting all aspects of perioperative care. JCAHO is an independent, non-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the United States. They set standards and guidelines for quality and safety in healthcare, including the documentation of perioperative care. These records are important for ensuring that proper care was provided to the patient and for evaluating the quality of care in healthcare organizations. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) have their own specific requirements and regulations, but they do not specifically require operative records.

This answer suggests that one person should stand next to the stretcher and one person should stand adjacent to the OR table while the patient moves over. This ensures that there is support and guidance on both sides of the patient during the transfer, minimizing the risk of falls or injuries. It also allows for a smooth and coordinated movement between the stretcher and the OR table.

Prothrombin time is a test that measures how long it takes for blood to clot. It is commonly used to monitor patients who are on anticoagulant drugs, as these medications can affect the clotting ability of the blood. By measuring the prothrombin time, healthcare providers can determine if the patient's blood is clotting within the appropriate time frame. This test helps to ensure that the patient is receiving the correct dosage of anticoagulant medication and that their blood is not becoming too thin, which could lead to excessive bleeding. Therefore, prothrombin time is the most relevant test to check the clotting time of a patient's blood who is on anticoagulant drugs.

Systolic blood pressure represents the greatest force caused by contraction of the left ventricle of the heart. This is the highest pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood out. It is an important measure of cardiovascular health and indicates the force exerted on the arterial walls during each heartbeat.

The lithotomy position requires the patient's buttocks to rest along the break between the body and leg sections of the table, the stirrups to be at equal height on both sides of the table, and the stirrups to be at the appropriate height for the length of the patient's legs to maintain symmetry. However, each leg should not be raised slowly and gently as it is grasped by the toes. This is not a correct step in the lithotomy position.

A mechanical smoke evacuator on the field is the best way to prevent inhalation of the laser plume. This device is specifically designed to remove smoke, fumes, and other airborne particles generated during surgical procedures, including the use of lasers. By effectively capturing and filtering the laser plume, it helps to maintain a clean and safe environment for the surgical team, minimizing the risk of inhaling potentially harmful substances. The other options mentioned, such as wearing a double mask or using a filter on suction, may provide some level of protection but are not as effective as a dedicated smoke evacuator.

Preoperative chest x-rays should be done on all surgical patients. This is because chest x-rays can help identify any underlying lung or heart conditions that may affect the surgery or anesthesia. It can also detect any abnormalities or infections in the lungs that may require further evaluation or treatment before the surgery. Therefore, performing preoperative chest x-rays on all surgical patients is a standard practice to ensure the safety and success of the surgery.

The correct answer is air conditioning grills and walls. This is because air conditioning grills and walls are areas that can accumulate dust, dirt, and other debris over time. Regular cleaning of these areas is necessary to maintain good air quality and prevent the buildup of allergens. Additionally, keeping the walls clean can contribute to a more aesthetically pleasing environment.

Storage shelves must be cleaned with a germicide each week to maintain cleanliness and prevent the growth and spread of germs. Regular cleaning helps to eliminate any potential contaminants that may have accumulated on the shelves over time. By cleaning the shelves weekly, it ensures that they remain sanitary and safe for storing items. Cleaning on a weekly basis also allows for early detection of any potential issues or spills that may require immediate attention.

The patient signing a permission form without fully understanding what they have signed could constitute a liability case of assault and battery. This is because assault and battery refers to intentionally causing physical harm or offensive contact without the consent of the individual. In this case, if the patient did not fully understand the nature of the surgery they were consenting to, they may argue that they were subjected to unwanted physical harm or offensive contact, leading to a potential liability case of assault and battery.

Muslin is a breathable fabric that allows air circulation, which helps in preserving the freshness of stored items. In a closed cabinet, the muslin wrapping can provide a certain level of protection against external factors such as dust and insects. With proper storage conditions, such as maintaining a cool and dry environment, the item wrapped in muslin can last for up to 30 days without significant degradation or spoilage. Therefore, the correct answer is 30 days.

Uncontrolled increased positive pressure in one side of the thorax can cause the collapse of the opposite side, leading to a mediastinal shift. This refers to the displacement of the mediastinum, which is the central compartment of the thoracic cavity containing the heart, great vessels, and other structures. A mediastinal shift can occur due to various conditions such as pneumothorax, tension pneumothorax, or massive pleural effusion. It is a serious condition that can compress vital structures and compromise the function of the heart and lungs.

To prevent strain to the lumbosacral muscles and ligaments when the patient is in the lithotomy position, it is important that the buttocks do not extend beyond the table edge. This ensures that the patient's body weight is evenly distributed on the table, reducing the risk of excessive strain on the lower back. If the buttocks extend beyond the table edge, it can create an imbalance and put extra pressure on the lumbosacral area, potentially leading to discomfort or injury. By keeping the buttocks within the table boundaries, the patient's body can be properly supported and positioned for the procedure.

Polypropylene is the only acceptable plastic that can be used for a steam sterilization wrapper because it has a high melting point and excellent heat resistance. It can withstand the high temperatures and pressures of steam sterilization without melting or deforming, ensuring that the contents of the wrapper remain sterile. Polyethylene, polyamide, and polyvinyl chloride do not have the same heat resistance properties and would not be suitable for steam sterilization.

Maintaining a room temperature of 85 degrees for infants and children is important because it helps to keep them warm and comfortable. This temperature is considered safe and optimal for young children, as it helps to prevent them from getting too cold or too hot. It is also important to note that infants and young children are more sensitive to temperature changes compared to adults, so keeping the room at a slightly higher temperature ensures their well-being. However, it is always advisable to monitor the child's comfort level and adjust the temperature accordingly.

The standard safety margin on package wrappers is 1 inch or more. This means that there should be at least a 1-inch gap between the edge of the package and any important information or graphics on the wrapper. This margin ensures that the information remains visible and legible even if the package gets damaged or the wrapper is slightly misaligned. It also allows for any potential shifting or movement of the contents inside the package during transportation or handling.

Placing an arm on an unpadded table edge can result in ulnar nerve damage. The ulnar nerve runs along the inner side of the arm and is vulnerable to compression or injury when pressure is applied to it. Resting the arm on a hard surface without any padding can cause compression of the ulnar nerve, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

Wrapping dentures in a plastic bag and attaching them to the patient's chart is not considered a safe procedure when caring for dentures inadvertently sent to the operating room (OR). This is because there is a risk of the plastic bag getting misplaced or separated from the patient's chart, leading to difficulties in locating the dentures later. It is important to place dentures in a properly labeled container or denture cup to ensure their safekeeping and easy identification. Additionally, returning the dentures to the patient unit immediately and obtaining a receipt, which is placed on the chart, helps in maintaining proper documentation and accountability.

Activated glutaraldehyde is a high-level disinfectant commonly used to disinfect medical instruments like endoscopes. It is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The disinfection process requires a certain contact time to ensure that all the pathogens are killed. In this case, the correct answer is 20 minutes, indicating that endoscopes need to be immersed in activated glutaraldehyde for a minimum of 20 minutes to achieve proper disinfection. This duration allows enough time for the disinfectant to penetrate the instrument and effectively kill any potential pathogens present.

When a patient is in the supine position during a medical procedure, it is important to protect their heels from pressure on the operating room (OR) table. This is because prolonged pressure on the heels can lead to the development of pressure ulcers or bedsores. By taking precautions to prevent pressure on the heels, such as using heel protectors or positioning the patient's feet in a way that relieves pressure, healthcare providers can minimize the risk of these complications and promote patient comfort and safety.

In the third-degree burn classification, both the skin and subcutaneous tissue are destroyed. Third-degree burns are the most severe type of burns, involving damage to all layers of the skin and underlying tissues. These burns often result in the loss of sensation and require immediate medical attention.

The scrub nurse is responsible for preparing the surgical instruments and supplies for the procedure, not for patient identification. Patient identification should be done by the anesthesiologist, surgeon, and circulating nurse to ensure the correct patient is receiving the intended treatment. Therefore, the identification by the scrub nurse before the procedure begins is not absolutely necessary.

Ethylene oxide destroys cells by interfering with the normal metabolism of the protein and reproductive processes. This means that it disrupts the normal functioning of proteins within the cell, which are essential for various cellular processes. It also affects the reproductive processes of the cell, potentially interfering with cell division and reproduction. As a result, the cell's normal functioning is disrupted, leading to cell death.

Methyl methacrylate is a chemical compound that is commonly used in various industries, including the production of plastics and coatings. When using this mixture, a scavenging system is employed to collect and remove or absorb its vapors. This is necessary because methyl methacrylate can release harmful vapors that can be hazardous to health if inhaled. Therefore, the use of a scavenging system helps to ensure the safety of individuals working with or around this chemical.

The Kraske position is a surgical position used for procedures involving the rectum and anus. In this position, the patient is prone with hips over the break of the table, a pillow is placed under the lower legs and ankles, and a padded knee strap is applied 2 inches above the knees. However, the arms are not tucked in at the sides in the Kraske position. Instead, they are usually positioned on arm boards or padded supports to ensure proper patient alignment and comfort during the procedure.

Extreme positions of the head and arm can cause injury to the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates from the cervical spine and innervates the upper limb. When the head and arm are in extreme positions, such as during sports activities or accidents, there is a risk of stretching or compressing the brachial plexus, leading to nerve damage. This can result in symptoms like pain, weakness, and numbness in the arm and hand. Therefore, it is important to avoid extreme positions of the head and arm to prevent injury to the brachial plexus.

The statement "scrub suits may be worn out of the OR uncovered, if they are changed upon OR re-entry" is incorrect because scrub suits should never be worn out of the OR uncovered, even if they are changed upon re-entry. Scrub suits should always be covered to maintain a sterile environment.

Sterile gloves should be wiped off after donning to remove lubricant because the lubricant may interfere with the gloves' ability to maintain a sterile environment. Wiping off the lubricant helps to ensure that the gloves are clean and free from any potential contaminants. This is important in medical settings where maintaining sterility is crucial to prevent the spread of infections.

When moving a patient with a fracture in the OR, it is important to provide support to the extremity from below the site of fracture to prevent further injury or displacement. Extra personnel are necessary to ensure a safe and smooth transfer of the patient. Lifters on the affected side should support the fracture to minimize movement and maintain stability. The presence of the surgeon is crucial during the transfer to address any immediate concerns or complications. Therefore, the statement "support of the extremity should always be from below the site of fracture" is incorrect.

External cardiac compression is a technique used in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to manually compress the chest in order to maintain blood flow and circulation. By compressing the chest, external cardiac compression helps to pump oxygenated blood to vital tissues, ensuring they receive the necessary oxygen supply. This is crucial during cardiac arrest or other situations where the heart is not functioning properly.

Exposure to waste anesthetic gas has been linked to an increased risk of spontaneous abortion in female OR employees. Waste anesthetic gas refers to the gases that are released into the air during medical procedures using anesthesia. These gases can be inhaled by healthcare workers, including female employees working in operating rooms. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to waste anesthetic gas can have adverse effects on reproductive health, including an increased risk of spontaneous abortion or miscarriage. Therefore, it is important for healthcare facilities to implement proper ventilation systems and safety protocols to minimize the exposure to waste anesthetic gas and protect the health of their employees.

Nylon is not an acceptable wrapper for gas sterilization because it is not permeable to the gas used in the sterilization process. Gas sterilization requires the gas to penetrate the packaging material in order to effectively sterilize the contents. Nylon is a non-permeable material, meaning that it does not allow gases to pass through it easily. Therefore, it would prevent the gas from reaching the items inside and would not result in proper sterilization.

Arterial blood gases (ABGs) are a measure of the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, as well as the acidity and other parameters. These levels can change over time, so it is important to analyze the blood sample as soon as possible after it is drawn to obtain accurate results. Waiting for more than 10 minutes may result in inaccurate readings as the levels may have already changed. Therefore, a safe time lapse between blood drawing and analysis for ABGs is 10 minutes.

Peracetic acid is the chemical sterilant used in the STERIS method of sterilizing. Peracetic acid is a strong oxidizing agent that effectively kills microorganisms by disrupting their cell walls and denaturing proteins. It is commonly used in healthcare settings for sterilizing medical equipment and instruments due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and its ability to penetrate hard-to-reach areas. Peracetic acid is preferred over other sterilizing agents like formaldehyde, Cidex, and ethylene oxide due to its rapid action, low toxicity, and environmental friendliness.

The doctrine of Reasonable Man is the correct answer because it refers to the legal standard that requires professionals, such as nurses and technicians, to perform their duties in a manner that a reasonable person with similar training and experience would do. This means that professionals are expected to adhere to the national standards of care practiced in their field. The doctrine of Reasonable Man holds professionals accountable for their actions and ensures that they provide a level of care that is considered reasonable and appropriate.

A hematocrit reading of 40% indicates the percentage of red blood cells in the total volume of blood. The normal range for hematocrit varies depending on factors such as age and sex, but generally falls between 38% and 52% for men and 35% and 47% for women. Since the patient's hematocrit reading is 40%, it falls within this normal range and is considered normal.

The best measure for staff protection against HIV is handling all needles and sharps carefully and using barriers to avoid direct contact with blood and body fluids. By handling needles and sharps carefully, staff can minimize the risk of accidental needlestick injuries and potential exposure to HIV. Using barriers, such as gloves and protective clothing, can further reduce the risk of direct contact with blood and body fluids, which may contain the virus. Immunization with a vaccine is not mentioned as a specific measure for staff protection against HIV in this question.

When a patient is under anesthesia, their circulatory system may be affected. Moving them slowly allows the circulatory system to gradually adjust to changes in position, preventing any sudden shifts in blood flow or pressure that could be harmful. This is important to ensure the patient's safety and avoid complications during and after the procedure.

When the scrub nurse opens an inner sterile wrapper, the side nearest the body is opened first. This is because the side nearest the body is considered the cleanest and least likely to be contaminated. By opening this side first, the nurse can ensure that the sterile contents inside the wrapper remain uncontaminated and ready for use. Opening the side nearest the body last would increase the risk of contamination and compromise the sterility of the contents.

Basic life support refers to the immediate medical care provided to a person in a life-threatening situation, such as cardiac arrest. During basic life support, it is crucial to maintain uninterrupted chest compressions to ensure blood circulation. The correct answer of 5 seconds suggests that any interruption longer than this could significantly compromise the effectiveness of the life support. This emphasizes the importance of continuous chest compressions to maintain blood flow and maximize the chances of survival for the patient.

A Bonanno suprapubic catheter is a type of urinary catheter that is inserted through the abdominal wall into the bladder. It allows for urinary drainage while bypassing the urethra. This means that the patient can still void urine voluntarily through the urethra, while also having the option of using the suprapubic catheter for drainage if needed. This catheter is commonly used when there is a need for long-term urinary drainage or when there are issues with the urethra that prevent the use of a Foley catheter or urethral stent. A perineal urethrostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a permanent opening in the perineum to bypass the urethra, but it is not mentioned as an option in the question.

The hemoglobin level of 9.0g indicates that the patient's hemoglobin is below the normal range. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Normal hemoglobin levels for adults typically range from 12 to 16 grams per deciliter (g/dL) for women and 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men. A hemoglobin level of 9.0g suggests that the patient may be anemic or have a lower than normal red blood cell count, which could affect their ability to transport oxygen effectively.

Packages wrapped in muslin must have four thicknesses because muslin is a thin and lightweight fabric. To provide adequate protection to the contents of the package, multiple layers of muslin need to be used. By having four thicknesses, the package will have a stronger and more secure wrapping, reducing the risk of damage or breakage during handling and transportation.

A specific gravity of 1.050 indicates that the urine is more concentrated than normal, which means there is a higher concentration of solutes in the urine. This is typically a sign of dehydration, as the body tries to conserve water by producing more concentrated urine. Therefore, the correct answer is that the specific gravity is above normal range and the patient is dehydrated.

The Endoflush system is designed to initially clean reusable channeled instruments. This means that it is specifically used to flush out the interior of these instruments, ensuring that any debris or contaminants are removed. This initial cleaning process is an important step in preparing the instruments for further cleaning and sterilization.

The aerator in EO sterilization is a separate unit that is used to decrease the aeration time. After the sterilization process, the items need to be aerated to remove any remaining ethylene oxide gas. The aerator helps to speed up this process, allowing for quicker turnaround times and ensuring that the items can be safely used again.