SFA 273 - Fundamental Techniques

1. Discuss physiologic monitoring of patients undergoing surgery and the placement of monitoring devices.
   1. List the common types of noninvasive and invasive monitors used intra-operatively and discuss their potential complications.
   2. Discuss the SFA's responsibilities with regard to intra-operative patient monitoring.
   3. Define “vital signs”, explain why they are important, describe how they can be measured, and list their normal ranges in an adult.
   4. Define terms used to describe abnormalities in vital sign measurements.
   5. Explain the importance of monitoring urine output and body temperature and identify abnormalities that must be reported.
   6. Discuss CVP lines, PA catheters, end-tidal CO2 monitors, pulse oximeters, peripheral nerve stimulators, and special monitors specific to surgical specialties.
   7. Define terms related to hemodynamic monitoring.
2. Demonstrate the preparation of a patient prior to surgery.
   1. Demonstrate an understanding of the preoperative assessment of the patient.
   2. Recognize the need for surgical intervention.
   3. Understand patient considerations when preparing the patient for surgery.
   4. Describe the proper attire for a patient entering the O.R. and explain the safety reasons for these rules.
   5. List the indications for bladder catheterization and discuss possible complications and appropriate actions.
   6. Describe the principles of performing urinary catheterization and be able to demonstrate proper technique.
   7. List the essential elements of proper positioning of a patient and discuss the safety precautions to be observed.
   8. Discuss pre-operative preps and indications for hair clipping.
   9. Describe and be able to demonstrate the correct method for various kinds of pre-operative wash preps, including the appropriate choice of antiseptic agent.
   10. List the basic principles of draping and be able to demonstrate standard draping procedures and variations.
   11. Discuss the correct placement, pressure settings, inflation time limits, and possible complications of a pneumatic tourniquet.
3. Demonstrate understanding of methods of tissue handling and techniques of instrument use.
   1. Identify the indications, advantages and disadvantages for various types of abdominal incisions.
   2. List the general rules of gentle tissue handling and compare different methods of tissue dissection.
   3. Discuss the factors involved in the appropriate selection of instrumentation and the potential hazards from the improper use of instruments.
   4. Describe and demonstrate proper body mechanics when using various kinds of instruments.
   5. Compare various methods of tissue retraction.
   6. List the types of surgical lasers and the characteristics, common uses, and preparation and safe use of each.
   7. Discuss the surgical uses of ultrasound equipment.
4. Demonstrate methods of providing visualization of the operative site and of hemostasis.
   1. Discuss the various methods of wound visualization.
   2. Discuss the principles of selection and proper use of different kinds of sponging materials.
   3. Describe the proper use of suctioning equipment.
   4. Discuss the purposes and methods of intraoperative irrigation, and list the types, possible side effects and contraindications for various irrigation solutions.
   5. Discuss the different types of bleeding and the SFA’s role in achieving hemostasis.
   6. List and define terms relating to different ligating methods.
   7. Discuss the uses of operating microscopes and the role of the SFA.
5. Demonstrate appropriate methods of tissue approximation.
   1. List characteristics, common uses, and contraindications different types of suture materials.
   2. Discuss the principles and appropriate uses of the various types of suturing techniques.
   3. Demonstrate a clinically acceptable level of surgical knot-tying techniques.
   4. Discuss the uses of different types of surgical stapling appliances.
   5. Demonstrate a clinically acceptable lev