EFHSS Questions and Answers - Question Q00782

can anyone send me an example of a procedure used at the end of an operation to count the number of instruments present at the instrument table.
are you counting also at the start of a procedure or do you trust the number the CSSD is giving at the packaging of the sets.

Dear Jef

Most countries legislative require that foreign bodies not be negligently left in patients. The process how instrument counts are performed is not standardized and is often done according to hospital policy.
There are excellent recommendation developed by Professional Associations.
The journal Infection Control Today published AORN's "Recommended Practice for Sponge, Sharp, and Instrument Counts" posted on 04/01/2005. You find the print version at www.infectioncontroltoday.com/hotnews/54h1945629067.html
Also the UK "NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THEATRE NURSES" (NATN) reviewed and developed "Recommendation for Swab, Instrument & Needles Count within any perioperative setting". See www.natn.org.uk/document_downloads/position_statements/Swab-count.pdf
Standardized instruments sets and preprinted count sheets are systems that help the counting process to become uncomplicated and effective. See an example at www.iahcsmm.com/special_feature_0100.htm

I hope this is of some help.

Greetings
Josy