Which instruments should be passed to the surgeon for achieving hemostasis at the beginning of an operative procedure?

The correct answer identifies the instruments often required to control bleeding—known as hemostasis—at the beginning of a surgical procedure. The electrosurgical pen is a crucial tool since it helps coagulate tissues while cutting, making it vital for managing bleeding vessels during the initial stages. The sponge is important for absorbing any blood and managing the surgical field, while the suction device is necessary for removing blood and fluids, thereby providing a clear view for the surgeon.

In contrast, while the scalpel and scissors are essential for making incisions, they are less directly connected to achieving hemostasis at the outset compared to the instruments mentioned in the correct choice. Thus, the combination of an electrosurgical pen, sponge, and suction device is specifically tailored to ensure effective control of bleeding before the procedure progresses.