Author Question: Which action by the nurse best demonstrates accountability in the operating room? a. Applying ... (Read 36 times)

genevieve1028 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Which action by the nurse best demonstrates accountability in the operating room?

a. Applying warm blankets when the patient reports feeling chilly
b. Holding the patient's hand to allay anxiety before anesthesia is administered
c. Double-checking that the surgical site is clearly marked and visible after draping
d. Using calming speech with a reassuring tone of voice when speaking with the patient

Question 2

The nurse is caring for a male patient who will soon have open heart surgery. The patient's chest is covered with thick hair so the surgical technician comes in to shave the patient's skin near the operative site.

Which action by the technician requires intervention by the nurse to correct the technique?
a.
A straight safety razor and antibiotic foam is used
b.
Disposable electric trimmers are used to trim the hair
c.
Antibacterial soap is used prior to hair removal
d.
Only the hair directly around the surgical site is removed

potomatos · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: C
Accountability is accomplished by ensuring that proper precautions are taken to prevent errors from happening. The nurse can prevent wrong-site surgery by making sure that the surgical site is clearly marked and visible after the draping is completed. The surgeon could inadvertently operate on the incorrect site if the markings are covered by the surgical drapes. The other actions of the nurse are appropriate but do not demonstrate accountability and error prevention.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Disposable electric trimmers should be used to remove excess hair from operative
sites. Antibacterial soap is commonly used to clean the skin before surgical procedures. Only the hair around the surgical site is removed. A straight razor should never be used because small nicks in the skin can occur, increasing infection risk.