Surgical nursing 1 Flashcards
Define aseptic technique
Steps taken during surgery to ensure freedom from infection
define Sterilisation
Complete destruction of all micro organisms
Define disinfectant
Chemical used to destroy micro organisms of inanimate objects
Define antiseptic
A chemical used to destroy microorganisms on living tissue
Define bacteriocidal
Kills bacteria
Define bacteriostatic
Inactivates bacteria
4 sources of contamination to a surgical patient
The patient
Surgical team
Air
Visitors in operating theatre
4 general rules for the use of disinfectants
Surface being treated should be as clean as possible
Appropriate PPE worn when required
The chemical must contact every surface of the article
Used at the correct concentration
Why is aseptic technique so important give 6 reasons
Animal may die Failure to heal or slow healing May lose the client Increased recovery time Pain to patient Lead to illness
How does autoclave work
When placed under pressure the temperature of the steam rises and becomes a reliable method of sterilisation, air in the sterilising chamber is removed by pressure as the steam is produced
3 methods for cleaning instruments
Fresh running water
Ultrasonic cleaners
Chemical cleaners
Why is instrument milk used
Used for lubricating the instruments but not cleaning as it’s not a disinfectant
Why do we wrap packs
Provide a bacterial barrier
Keeps items together
To label contents
3 materials used to wrap packs
Cloth/ linen
Non wovens
Laminates
How do we label packs what do we use and why
2 strips of Autoclave tape, with the contents of the pack, date and initials
Used so preparing for surgery you know what packs you have and what you need
How is effectiveness of sterilisation assessed
Adequate steam contact
Correct temperature
Correct exposure time
Indicator strip / auto clave tape
How do we handle and store sterilised items
Stored in a closed cupboard, good temperature not damp area, vermin free
Minimise handling, use protective gloves when taking out of auto clave
6 qualities of ideal surgery theatre
Good lighting No clutter Good temperature Spacious One door Isolated
4 items for patient before anaesthetic
ET tube, blanket, heat pad,
4 ways to minimise hypothermia
Hypothermia prevent with bear hugger, towel on surgery table, fluid warmer, heat pad under towel
Immediate post op complications and at home
Laryngospasm And vomiting
At home - pulling sutures out, wound infection
