Final answer:
Sponge, sharps, and instrument counts are performed before and after a surgical procedure to ensure no items are left inside the patient. These counts are part of essential safety checks conducted by the surgical team.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sponge, sharps, and instrument counts are critical safety checks performed in the surgical setting. These counts are conducted to ensure that no surgical tools, sponges, or needles are inadvertently left inside the patient's body after a procedure, which can lead to serious complications. The correct answer to when these counts are performed is: C) Before and after the procedure.
Before the procedure begins, a baseline count is established to ensure all items are accounted for. This involves a nurse reviewing items aloud with the surgical team, confirming that needle, sponge, and instrument counts are complete. It is also important to ensure that any specimens collected during the procedure are correctly labeled, including the patient's name and that any issues with equipment are addressed. Additionally, it's verified that prophylactic antibiotics have been administered within 60 minutes before the incision is made or confirmed that they are not indicated.
After the procedure, counts are repeated to ensure that all items present before surgery are accounted for and that nothing is left inside the patient. Finally, all essential imaging results for the correct patient are confirmed to be displayed in the operating room. These counts are a vital part of maintaining patient safety and adhering to surgical protocols.