Which of the following statements reflects best practice when passing instruments?

• A. Informing the surgeon of the passing before doing so
• B. Pass instruments without verbal cues to speed up the process
• C. Use a two-handed pass for larger instruments
• D. Leaving instruments on the sterile drape for the surgeon to pick up

Answer: (A)

The best practice when passing instruments is to inform the surgeon of the passing before doing so. This approach enhances communication within the surgical team, ensuring that everyone is aware of what is occurring during the procedure. It helps in maintaining a smooth workflow and reduces the risk of mishaps, as the surgeon can prepare to receive the instrument and is less likely to be surprised or distracted.

Clear communication is particularly crucial in surgical settings, where the stakes are high, and the team must work seamlessly together. By verbally announcing the intent to pass an instrument, the circulating nurse or scrub tech allows the surgeon to focus on their task without unexpected interruptions. This practice not only promotes safety but also fosters teamwork, as it encourages all team members to be attentive and prepared for each other's actions during surgery.

In contrast, passing instruments without verbal cues could disrupt the surgeon's concentration or lead to accidents, such as dropping instruments or incorrect handoffs. Using a two-handed pass for larger instruments can be practical but lacks the assured communication that accompanies a verbal cue. Leaving instruments on a sterile drape for the surgeon could also introduce inefficiencies and increases the risk of contamination or miscommunication, further highlighting the importance of announcing instrument passes.