In preparing for an emergency case, what is the first item to be set up by the ST?

In an emergency surgical scenario, the setup for the procedure must be efficient and effective, allowing for rapid access to critical instruments and materials. The scalpel is prioritized as the first item to be set up by the surgical technologist because it is vital for initiating incisions and effectively managing bleeding control during the procedure. Having the scalpel readily accessible enables the surgical team to act swiftly in making incisions necessary for accessing the surgical field, which is especially crucial in emergencies where time is of the essence.

While other instruments such as scissors, hemostats, and towels are important in their respective roles during surgery, they are typically utilized after the initial incision or are used in conjunction with the scalpel. Scissors may be used to cut sutures or tissue post-incision, hemostats are essential for controlling bleeding after vessels have been cut, and towels are generally used for draping or to maintain a sterile field. However, none of these items can replace the scalpel's role as the tool that initiates surgical intervention. Therefore, the scalpel takes precedence in the emergency setup.