Prior to the beginning of a surgical procedure, what should the surgical technologist do?

Counting sponges, sutures, sharps, and instruments is a critical task that the surgical technologist performs prior to the beginning of a surgical procedure. This counting is vital to ensure that no items are inadvertently left inside the patient, which could lead to serious complications, including infections or additional surgeries. It establishes a baseline for inventory that will help maintain the surgical environment's safety.

In addition to preventing the retention of surgical items, this count serves as a part of the overall surgical safety protocol and is often mandated by hospital policy. It’s typically done in collaboration with the operating room team to confirm accuracy before starting the procedure. This practice supports a culture of safety within the surgical suite and ensures patient well-being throughout the surgical process.