Select the option that correctly mentions the instrument shown in the following image.

DSSSB 6 September 2024

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

The instrument shown is a Babcock forceps, identified by its unique tip.
As seen in the image, the tips are fenestrated (have a hole), flared, and atraumatic (non-crushing).
It features a ratchet lock to hold tissue gently but securely.
This design is ideal for grasping delicate tubular structures like the fallopian tubes, appendix, or intestines without causing damage.

Option A: Hegar's dilators are solid, curved metal rods used for dilating the cervix; they are not forceps and do not have jaws or handles like the instrument shown.
Option B: Ovum forceps have larger, spoon-shaped or cup-like fenestrated tips and typically lack a ratchet (catch). The instrument in the image has more delicate, flared tips and a clear ratchet mechanism.
Option C: Vulsellum forceps are traumatic instruments with sharp, interlocking teeth or hooks at the tips. The instrument in the image has smooth, atraumatic tips designed to prevent tissue injury.

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 used in general surgery and gynecology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Using the correct instrument is critical for patient safety. Using a traumatic forceps like an Allis or Vulsellum on a delicate structure like the bowel could cause perforation, leading to peritonitis.
The atraumatic design of Babcock forceps minimizes tissue damage, reduces postoperative pain, and promotes better healing.
What if? If a surgeon needed to remove products of conception after an incomplete abortion, they would use Ovum forceps, not Babcock forceps. The Ovum forceps' larger, non-locking, cup-like jaws are designed to remove tissue fragments without crushing them, which is essential for complete evacuation.

How to Approach the Question

This is an image-based identification question, which requires visual recognition of medical equipment.
First, carefully examine the key features of the instrument in the image. Pay close attention to the tip, the handles, and whether it has a locking mechanism (ratchet).
Observe the tip: it is fenestrated (has a window), is flared outwards, and appears smooth and atraumatic (no teeth).
Observe the handle: it has finger rings and a ratchet lock.
Mentally compare these features to the known characteristics of the instruments listed in the options.
Eliminate options that do not match. Hegar's is a dilator (rod), not forceps. Vulsellum has teeth. Ovum forceps have larger, cup-like tips and usually no lock. The features perfectly match those of a Babcock forceps.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of common surgical instruments used in general surgery and gynecology.
Stem keywords: instrument, image, forceps
Lead-in keywords: Select the option that correctly mentions
Negative lead-in flag: false

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

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 49-57