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o Ensure power tools are fully charged and tested before surgery.
o Organize instruments on a sterile tray according to surgeon preference and procedural
requirements.
• Sterile Technique Adherence:
o Maintain sterility by handling instruments with gloved hands only.
o Avoid touching non-sterile surfaces once instruments are placed in the surgical field.
o Use proper passing techniques when transferring instruments to the surgeon.

b. Intraoperative Instrument Handling

• Passing Instruments Efficiently:
o Pass instruments firmly and directly into the surgeon’s hand in a manner that allows
immediate use.
o Use a “palm-up” technique for handing instruments requiring precision, such as scalpels
and needle holders.
o Keep sharp instruments pointed away from surgical staff to prevent accidental injury.
• Maintaining Organization and Readiness:
o Keep frequently used instruments accessible and organized.
o Remove and replace contaminated or dropped instruments promptly.
o Track and count instruments to prevent accidental retention in the surgical site.

c. Post-Surgical Cleaning and Sterilization

• Initial Cleaning:
o Immediately after use, instruments should be wiped clean of blood and tissue using sterile
saline or enzymatic solution.
o Instruments with hinges or joints should be flushed to remove debris.
• Sterilization Methods:
o Autoclaving (Steam Sterilization): The most common method for heat-resistant
instruments.
o Chemical Sterilization: Used for heat-sensitive instruments and delicate implants.
o Ultrasonic Cleaning: Effective for removing microscopic debris from fine instruments.
• Proper Storage and Inventory Management:
o Ensure instruments are properly dried before being stored to prevent corrosion.
o Store instruments in designated trays to maintain sterility until their next use.
o Conduct regular inventory checks to ensure all necessary instruments are available for
upcoming procedures.

By mastering proper instrument handling, cleaning, and maintenance protocols, orthopaedic
technologists contribute to improved surgical efficiency, enhanced patient safety, and prolonged
instrument longevity.

• Pre-Surgical Inspection:
o Ensure all instruments are clean, intact, and functioning properly.
• Post-Surgical Cleaning and Sterilization:
o Follow hospital guidelines for decontaminating and sterilizing instruments.