Question

When are sponge and sharp counts performed in the OR?

• A. At the beginning and end of the surgical procedure
• B. Before the incision, closure of cavity and skin closure
• C. As soon as the procedure begins & throughout the case
• D. Before establishing the sterile field and the application of dressings

Answer 1

Sponge and sharp counts in the OR are crucial safety practices done before incision, before closure of any cavity, and before skin closure, ensuring all items are accounted for to prevent retained surgical items.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sponge and sharp counts are critical safety checks in the operating room (OR) aimed at preventing retained foreign objects, which can lead to serious patient harm. These counts are performed multiple times during a surgical procedure: before the incision, before closure of any cavity within a cavity, and before skin closure. The initial count ensures that the baseline number of sponges and sharps is known. Subsequent counts are intended to confirm that all items are accounted for during the different stages of the procedure. The entire surgical team, including surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists, participate in the count and communicate clearly throughout, as part of a broader set of safety checks such as confirming patient identity, surgical site, procedure, sterility of equipment, and administration of prophylactic antibiotics when indicated.