Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What piece of equipment does not require a patient return electrode?

1. Bipolar handpiece

2. Monopolar cautery

3. Electrosurgical pencil

4. Dermatome

The correct answer is: Bipolar handpiece

The bipolar handpiece is the correct choice because it operates by using two electrodes that are integrated into the handpiece itself. This design allows the current to pass between the paired electrodes directly at the site of tissue being treated, eliminating the need for a patient return electrode. In contrast, monopolar cautery and electrosurgical pencils work by delivering current through a single active electrode that requires a patient return electrode to complete the electrical circuit back to the generator. The return electrode is essential for safely dispersing the electrical current away from the patient’s body, reducing the risk of burns. The dermatome, used for harvesting skin grafts, may involve the use of monopolar technology and would also require a patient return electrode if it involves cauterization during the grafting process. Therefore, the bipolar handpiece stands out as the only option that functions independently of a patient return electrode.