Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 10 TSC 229 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
How to Count Aloud Together
The idea
A surgical count is done by two people who look at each item together, separate it, and count aloud.
In practice
Follow the method in order. First, two people count: usually the scrub person and the circulating nurse, and in the operating room at least one of them is a registered nurse. Second, both see each item at the same time. Third, each item is separated completely; sponges are separated one by one, never counted as a pack. Fourth, the count is said aloud. Fifth, counts follow a consistent sequence, for example sponges, sharps, small items, then instruments, starting at the surgical site and moving outward to the Mayo stand, the back table and discarded items. Sixth, if a count is interrupted, it starts again from the beginning. Seventh, the result is announced to the surgeon, who acknowledges it.
Where people slip
A count is a test, and it can give a false reassurance. A pack assumed to hold ten sponges and never separated may hold eleven, and the count will be called correct while a sponge remains in the patient.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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