Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What should accompany a patient to PACU after an arch bar placement?

1. Scissors

2. Suction device

3. Wire cutters

4. Forceps

The correct answer is: Wire cutters

After the placement of an arch bar, it is essential to have wire cutters accompany the patient to the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Arch bars are dental devices typically used in maxillofacial surgeries to stabilize the dental arch or to hold fracture segments in proper alignment. In some cases, these bars are secured by wires that can pose a risk if an emergency arises, such as the need for airway management or removal of the device due to complications. Having wire cutters readily available ensures that the surgical team can quickly and effectively address any situation where the wires may need to be cut to alleviate airway obstruction or other complications. This readiness to act can be crucial for patient safety following surgery. The other items listed, while potentially useful in various surgical contexts, do not provide the same immediate critical capability in managing the specific risks associated with arch bar placement in the PACU setting. Thus, wire cutters represent the best choice to ensure prompt intervention if necessary.