Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What is the correct procedure when passing suture on a needle holder?

1. Hand the needle holder directly to the surgeon

2. Hold the suture material end and carefully place on the sterile field

3. Place suture in the surgeon's palm

4. Drop suture onto the field

The correct answer is: Hold the suture material end and carefully place on the sterile field

When passing suture on a needle holder, the most appropriate procedure is to hold the suture material end and carefully place it on the sterile field. This method ensures that the suture is presented in a controlled manner, allowing the surgeon to grasp it easily while maintaining the sterility of the field. It emphasizes the importance of keeping the surgical environment organized and safe, which is critical for both the effectiveness of the procedure and the safety of the patient. Directly handing the needle holder to the surgeon might compromise the control that the surgeon needs, especially in critical situations where precision is crucial. Placing suture in the surgeon's palm can also increase the risk of contamination and does not provide the surgeon with a stable way to work with the suture. Dropping the suture onto the field can lead to disorganization and potential contamination, which is particularly problematic in sterile environments required for surgery. By securely placing the suture material end on the sterile field, you help maintain a clean and efficient workflow in the operating room.