What is the responsibility of a surgical technologist at the end of shift during a myomectomy?

The responsibility of a surgical technologist at the end of a shift during a myomectomy includes conducting a complete count. This process is crucial to ensure that all instruments, sponges, and sharps used during the procedure are accounted for before the surgical team completes their work and the patient is moved to recovery. The complete count helps prevent any retained foreign objects within the patient, which is a critical aspect of patient safety.

The complete count involves a meticulous verification process where all items are counted systematically as they are either used or removed from the sterile field. This protocol not only protects the well-being of the patient but also provides reassurance for the surgical team that the operation has concluded successfully without any oversight.

In contrast, counts of items alone or initiating a timeout would typically occur at different points during the surgical procedure rather than as part of the end-of-shift responsibilities. Collecting specimens is also a vital task but would occur before the completion of the procedure, rather than at the end of the shift.