9 0 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • A P R I L 2 0 1 9
To make it easier for
you to recognize
when and if an error
in counting has been
made, follow these 8
steps:
1. Manage all free
sponges in multi-
ples of 10.
2. The RN and scrub
tech "see, separate
and say" for all in
counts.
3. The counts are written on a white board in a standardized run-
ning total format, which is the same in all rooms.
4. Used sponges are collected in ring stands, separated and
placed in disposable hanging blue-backed plastic sponge-hold-
ers in a 10-pocket pattern, starting with the bottom pocket and
moving horizontally upward.
5. At the closing count, there is a "pauze for the gauze" where the
surgeon does a methodical wound exam before asking for
closing sutures while the RN and scrub tech perform a closing
count.
6. The final count is when all the sponges — used and unused —
are in the holders. The final count is a thing. It is the holder full
sponges. It can only be recorded as correct or incorrect.
7. Conduct a "show us" step where two people look at the hold-
8 Ways to Spot an Error in the Count
• FILLED POCKETS The final sponge count is correct when there are no
empty pockets in the sponge holder.
SPONGE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
