Which is a risk factor for retaining a surgical item during a procedure?

Retaining a surgical item during a procedure is a serious complication that can occur for various reasons, and understanding the risk factors associated with it is crucial for improving patient safety. Emergency surgical procedures are often associated with higher stress levels, rapid decision-making, and a potential lack of resources compared to planned elective surgeries.

In emergency situations, the surgical team may be under significant time pressure to resolve acute conditions, which can lead to lapses in protocol or communication that could result in surgical items being left behind. Additionally, the often chaotic nature of emergent surgeries may complicate the process of accounting for all surgical tools and materials used during the operation.

On the other hand, planned elective procedures generally allow for more time to prepare and ensure that proper protocols for counting and checking instruments are followed, reducing the likelihood of retention errors. Small incision surgeries and minimal tissue manipulation are typically associated with less complexity and provide easier access for thorough examinations of the surgical site, further mitigating the risk of leaving items behind.