Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 26 TSC 627 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
The Closing Count
The idea
The closing counts confirm that every counted item is accounted for before the wound is sealed.
In practice
Follow the closing counts in order. First, before closing a cavity within a cavity, sponges and sharps are counted. Second, before wound closure begins, at the first layer, sponges, sharps, small items and instruments are counted. Third, at skin closure, sponges and sharps are counted again. Fourth, the surgeon examines the wound before closing, a separate check from the count. Fifth, the results are announced to the surgeon, who acknowledges them, and recorded by the circulating nurse. If any count cannot be reconciled, closure stops until the discrepancy procedure is complete.
Where people slip
The count and the surgeon's wound examination each catch what the other misses. Neither replaces the other, and a correct count does not excuse skipping the examination.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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