Final answer:
When a perioperative nurse states "The final count is correct," it means that all sponges, needles, and instruments used during the surgery are accounted for, ensuring no items are left inside the patient. This is part of the surgical team's patient safety protocols. The correct answer is option b.
Step-by-step explanation:
When the perioperative nurse tells the surgeon, "The final count is correct," he or she is affirming that the total number of sponges, needles, and instruments used in the surgery has been removed and accounted for. This count is crucial for patient safety to ensure that no surgical items are left inside the patient's body post-operation. This process involves the nurse reviewing items aloud with the surgical team, ensuring the name of the procedure is recorded, and confirming the counts of needles, sponges, and instruments. In addition, it is verified that specimens are correctly labeled and all issues with equipment are addressed.
Prior to the closing of the surgical site, it is standard procedure for the operating team to conduct a thorough count of all surgical items. This routine is part of a larger set of safety checks that include confirming patient identity, the surgical site, procedure, and addressing potential allergies or risks, and it is done in conjunction with other protocols such as antibiotic administration and the review of essential imaging. These collective measures ensure a safe and successful surgery and optimal postoperative recovery.