Peri op nursing considerations

Question 1

What is the purpose of sponges and swabs?

Answer 1

1) Absorb fluid/blood
2) Blunt dissection
3) Protect tissues from retractors, diathermy burns
4) Keep tissues moist: intestines
5) Cleaning skin/wounds
6) Dressing

Question 2

Type of sponges/ swabs

Answer 2

1) Radio opaque (xray detectable) : Raytec gauze, penny towels, peanut swabs, tonsil swabs

2) Non Radio opaque (non xray detectable) : Anaesthetic gauze, plain gauze

Question 3

Purpose of penny towels

Answer 3

Used for major surgeries: abdomen, pelvis, thorax, extensive incision
- Used to absorb blood clots and fluid
- Provide warmth to exposed tissues eg colon
- Protect skin/tissue when retractor lining is on top

Question 4

Purpose of peanut swabs

Answer 4

• Blunt dissection
• Absorb blood in paediatrics

Question 5

Purpose of anaesthetic gauze

Answer 5

Can be sterile or non sterile:
- To absorb secretions (saliva)
- Skin prep for regional anaesthesia purposes
- Eye protection

Question 6

Purpose of Plain gauze

Answer 6

For cleansing, dressing of wounds/ drain sites