Final answer:
If an instrument on the sterile field is not functioning correctly or is damaged, the proper protocol is for the scrub person to hand it off the field to the circulator for repair and sterilization, to ensure patient safety and maintain a sterile environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an instrument is not working properly, such as being bent, broken, or having any part missing, it is crucial to maintain a sterile field to prevent sepsis. The correct course of action for the scrub person would be to hand it off the field to the circulator so it can be tagged for repair and returned to the Central Sterile Processing Department (CSPD). Attempting to fix an instrument on the sterile field, such as bending a tip back into place, is not appropriate as it could compromise sterility and potentially cause harm to the patient. Similarly, calling leadership into the room for help is not the immediate action to be taken with a compromised instrument. The main goal is to ensure that all equipment used in medical procedures is functioning correctly and maintains the highest level of cleanliness to prevent infections.