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A surgeon asks for warm irrigation after a GI tract reanastomosis. Which of the following BEST describes the reason for irrigating at this point in the procedure?

A. to clean out the area of any loose tissue
B. to maintain the core body temperature
C. to eliminate any infection-causing microbes
D. to aid visual inspection for leakage

1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

The reason for warm irrigation after GI tract reanastomosis is to aid in visual inspection for leakage, ensuring the procedure's success. Antiseptics are used on tissues to prevent infections, and surgical handwashing reduces skin microbiota to prevent contamination.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason a surgeon asks for warm irrigation after a GI tract reanastomosis is D. to aid visual inspection for leakage. This is a critical step in the procedure to ensure the integrity of the anastomosis and prevent postoperative complications. Warm irrigation can help reveal any leaks from the newly connected sections of the gastrointestinal tract by providing a clear view for the surgeon. It is not primarily for cleaning out loose tissue, maintaining core body temperature, or eliminating microbes, but these could be secondary benefits.

Regarding microbial control on tissues, B. antiseptic is suitable for use to prevent infection. Antiseptics are substances that inhibit the growth of microorganisms on living tissue and are used to reduce the risk of infection at surgical sites. Disinfectants and sterilants are not suitable for direct application on living tissues.

Handwashing is critical in healthcare settings to prevent the spread of infection. Proper surgical scrubbing goes beyond regular handwashing and aims to reduce the normal microbiota on the skin's surface to prevent introducing microbes into surgical wounds, thereby preventing infection.

User Carlos Mendes
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