TL;DR
Surgical Counts: Systematic counting of sponges, instruments, sharps, and miscellaneous items to prevent retained surgical items.
Surgical Counts
Definition
Systematic counting of sponges, instruments, sharps, and miscellaneous items to prevent retained surgical items.
Overview
Retained surgical items are a "never event." Sponges are the most commonly retained. The surgical technologist and circulating nurse count together, audibly and visually.
Count Types
- Initial: before incision
- Closing: at each tissue layer
- Final: before skin closure
- Additional: when team changes or items added
Items
Sponges (radiopaque), sharps (blades, needles), all instruments, and miscellaneous items (vessel loops, pledgets, tapes).
Incorrect Count
Recount, search field, notify surgeon, consider x-ray. Never falsify. Document and file incident report.
Why It Matters
A patient safety cornerstone tested extensively on the CST exam.
Related Terms
Practice This Topic
Ready to practice for the CST SURGICAL TECH?
Adaptive practice powered by Item Response Theory targets your weak areas. Start with 3 free sessions.
Start free practice →