A blade shows in below image, which is commonly used for creation of large skin incision such as in laparotomy surgery. Identify the number of blade?

1. A

   22

2. B

   21

3. C

   12

4. D

   32

Appeared in: NORCET 3 - 2022 (Shift-1)

Explanation

• The image shows a No. 22 surgical blade, identifiable by its large size and prominent curved cutting edge.
• This specific shape, often described as leaf-like, is designed to make long, smooth, and continuous incisions through thick tissue layers.
• It is the classic choice for major surgical procedures requiring a large entry point, such as laparotomy (abdominal incision) and thoracotomy (chest incision).
• The No. 22 blade is used with a No. 4 scalpel handle, which is larger and provides a firm grip suitable for the force required for these incisions.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option B: A No. 21 blade is also a large blade used for major incisions, but it is slightly smaller and has a less pronounced curve compared to the No. 22. The blade shown in the image has the classic broad, leaf-like shape of a No. 22.
• Option C: A No. 12 blade is a small, crescent or sickle-shaped blade. Its shape and size are completely different from the blade in the image and it is not used for large skin incisions.
• Option D: The number 32 is not a standard designation for a surgical blade in the commonly used numbering system.

Related Visual

• Visual 1: Infographic: A chart displaying various surgical blades (Nos. 10, 11, 12, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23) with their names, shapes, and common surgical applications. This helps in visually differentiating the blades.

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification and application of surgical instruments, specifically surgical blades as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• Selecting the correct surgical blade is a critical aspect of patient safety and achieving optimal surgical outcomes. A clean, precise incision minimizes tissue trauma, reduces bleeding, and promotes better wound healing with less scarring.
• Using the wrong blade, such as a small blade for a large incision, would necessitate multiple passes, resulting in a jagged wound, increased tissue damage, and a higher risk of postoperative infection.
• Nurses in the operating room must be knowledgeable about surgical instruments to anticipate the surgeon's needs and ensure the correct equipment is available and ready.

How to Approach the Question

• First, carefully examine the image provided. Note the key visual characteristics of the blade: its large overall size and its broad, curved cutting edge.
• Next, analyze the question stem. It specifies the blade's function: making 'large skin incision' for 'laparotomy surgery'. This confirms the need for a large, robust blade.
• Correlate the visual evidence with the functional requirement. The large, curved 'belly' of the blade is designed for making long, straight cuts.
• Evaluate the given options based on your knowledge of surgical instruments. Immediately eliminate options that are clearly incorrect in shape or size, such as the No. 12 (sickle-shaped) and No. 32 (non-standard number).
• Differentiate between the remaining plausible options. Both No. 21 and No. 22 are large blades, but the classic leaf-shape with a prominent curve shown in the image is the hallmark of the No. 22 blade.
• Conclude that No. 22 is the best fit for the visual evidence and the described surgical application.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Identification and application of surgical instruments, specifically surgical blades.
• Stem keywords: blade, large skin incision, laparotomy surgery
• Lead-in keywords: Identify the number

Question ID

Qk0LAgTODFu5qnHsrfRlyj

Copy ID