2-29. INTRODUCTION

Several sources of information are kept within the surgical suite and are available to the specialist. These sources or references, discussed in the paragraphs to follow, make up the local policy for the suite. The specialist should, therefore, know where these references are kept and refer to them as often as necessary.

2-30. PROCEDURE MANUAL

The procedure manual sets forth step-by-step instructions for the performance of tasks within the surgical suite. Also, the administrative policies for the suite are often included in the procedure manual. The specialist may refer to the procedure manual at any time to check the local policy for the performance of assigned tasks.

2-31. INSTRUMENT CARD FILE

a. Discussion. Instrument cards contain information as to the “basic” instruments and other items used for the various kinds of operations (such as appendectomy, cholecystectomy, tonsillectomy, and so forth). The selection of instruments for a given operation is made in accordance with information on the appropriate card in this file.

b. Basic Instruments. The instruments with which an operation may be performed are classified as the basic instruments (or basic set) for that operation. Therefore, each card in this file has recorded on it the name of the operation, the names of the instruments needed, the sizes (for instruments available in different sizes), and the number of each kind of instrument to be included.

c. Other Items. Items not considered instruments (such as drains, safety pins, and so forth) but needed to perform the operation are also listed on the instrument card.

2-32. SURGEON’S PREFERENCE CARDS (SUTURE CARDS)

The surgeon’s preference cards contain information as to the types of sutures, needles, and stitches required for a procedure. A card is on file for each surgeon for each kind of operation that he performs. The surgeon’s glove size may also be included on the card as well as the surgeon’s preference for an instrument not included in the basic set.