Identify the following instrument?

Appeared in: AIIMS Rishikesh NO - 2019

Explanation

The instrument shown is a needle holder, identified by its distinct short, strong jaws.
The inner surface of the jaws has a cross-hatched or crisscross pattern, which is specifically designed to securely grip a suture needle without slippage.
It features a ratchet locking mechanism to hold the needle firmly in place, allowing for precise control during suturing.
This combination of features is unique to needle holders and distinguishes them from other forceps.

Option A: Artery forceps are used for clamping blood vessels to control bleeding (hemostasis). Their jaws have transverse (horizontal) serrations, not the cross-hatched pattern needed to hold a needle securely.
Option B: Tooth forceps are designed for grasping dense tissues, such as fascia or skin. They have interlocking teeth at the tips for a firm grip on tissue, a feature not present on the instrument shown.
Option D: Mosquito forceps are a smaller, more delicate type of artery forceps used for clamping small blood vessels. Like larger artery forceps, they have fine, transverse serrations, not a cross-hatched pattern.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of common surgical instruments based on their morphological features as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Using the correct instrument is paramount for patient safety and surgical success. A needle holder ensures precise needle control, leading to accurate suture placement and better wound healing.
Attempting to use an artery forceps to hold a needle can damage both the instrument and the needle, and more importantly, can cause the needle to slip, potentially injuring the patient or a member of the surgical team.
What if? If a surgeon used an artery forceps instead of a needle holder, the needle could easily twist or slip from the jaws. This would make suturing difficult and imprecise, increase tissue trauma, and raise the risk of a needlestick injury.

How to Approach the Question

First, observe the overall shape of the instrument, including the handles, lock, and shanks.
Next, focus on the most critical distinguishing part: the tip or jaws of the instrument.
Examine the inner surface of the jaws closely. Note the pattern: is it smooth, toothed, serrated horizontally (transverse), or serrated in a crisscross (cross-hatched) pattern?
A cross-hatched pattern is the definitive sign of a needle holder, designed for gripping a needle.
Compare this key feature to the functions of the other options to confirm the correct identification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of common surgical instruments based on their morphological features.
Stem keywords: instrument, identify
Lead-in keywords: Identify

QaRSis2SUIQrLFlzKs9y5t

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 1 p. 78-80

E6 Gynecology Williams p. 429-436

Practise the full AIIMS Rishikesh NO - 2019

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.