The Proper Use & Care of Surgical Instruments

The Importance of Surgical Instrument Knowledge

Surgical instruments are vital tools in the medical field, and their proper use and care are essential for successful patient outcomes. A common misconception is that only surgeons need to be familiar with these instruments. However, doctors and medical students across various specialties may encounter situations where surgical tools are necessary. For instance, in a clinic setting, a practitioner might need to perform minor surgical tasks, making the understanding of these instruments beneficial.

Dissecting Forceps: A Staple in Surgery

Dissecting forceps, also known as Mitchell's forceps, are among the most recognizable surgical tools. Contrary to their name, these forceps are typically used for non-dissecting purposes, such as grasping delicate tissues like intestines or blood vessels. The proper way to hold dissecting forceps is similar to holding a pencil, using the thumb and index finger for precision and control.

Surgical Scissors: Cutting with Care

Surgical scissors are another essential category of instruments, distinct from orthopedic tools. They come in various shapes, including curved and straight designs, to suit different cutting needs. The Metzenbaum scissors, for example, are designed for cutting finer tissues such as bladder or muscle. To maintain control and precision, it's recommended to support the scissors with one finger on the joint and use the opposite hand to guide the extent of the cut.

The Instrument Cycle: Pre-operative to Post-operative Care

The handling of medical instruments can be divided into three phases: pre-operative, intraoperative, and post-operative, collectively known as the instrument cycle.

Pre-operative Preparation

Before surgery, the surgeon selects the necessary instruments, which are then removed from their containers and arranged on the mayo stand or back table. This planning phase is crucial for a smooth surgical procedure.

Intraoperative Handling

During surgery, the surgical technologist or scrub nurse must anticipate the needs of the surgical team and patient. This requires a deep understanding of anatomy and the procedure at hand. Surgeons may communicate their instrument needs verbally or through hand signals, especially when minimizing conversation is preferred, such as when a patient is under local anesthesia.

Post-operative Instrument Care

After surgery, instruments undergo a series of steps to prepare them for future use. This includes decontamination, maintenance, inspection, reassembly, sterilization, and storage. Proper care ensures the longevity and safety of the instruments.

Selecting the Right Surgical Instrument Vendor

When choosing a vendor for surgical instrument repair and maintenance, consider the following:

• Availability: A reliable repair service should be accessible seven days a week, as most are only available on weekdays.
• Finish Preservation: High-quality German-made instruments come in matte or mirror finishes. Repairs should maintain the original finish to prevent glare or staining.
• On-site Repairs: Certain repairs, like those for needle holders, should be done on-site to ensure quality.
• Technician Expertise: More technicians typically mean better service.
• Tracking Services: Top repair businesses often provide surgical instrument tracking services.
• Warranty Checks: Before repairing broken instruments, check if they are still under warranty.
• Education: Vendors should offer accredited educational programs annually.
• Specialty Services: Complex specialty instruments should be serviced on location.
• Bulk Cleaning Offers: Look for vendors that provide discounts for cleaning surgical instrument sets in bulk.
• Facility Tours: Assess the qualifications of the repair service by touring their facility.
• Comprehensive Services: The best repair services handle a wide range of medical equipment, not just surgical instruments.

Conclusion

Expanding one's knowledge of medical equipment is invaluable for diagnosing and treating patients effectively. By selecting the right vendor for surgical instrument repair and maintenance, healthcare professionals can save time, reduce stress, and ensure the best care for their patients.

Interesting stats and data about the topic are not readily available as they are often proprietary to healthcare institutions or companies specializing in medical equipment maintenance. However, the importance of proper instrument care is underscored by the fact that surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant concern in healthcare, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating that SSIs occur in 2-5% of patients undergoing inpatient surgery. Proper instrument sterilization and handling are critical in preventing these infections (CDC).

For more information on surgical instruments and their care, the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) provides guidelines and resources for best practices in perioperative nursing, including instrument care (AORN).