Identify ramifications of surgical implants.

Identification should include

• precautions, such as selecting the correct product for the patient, ensuring sterility, maintaining documentation logs, verifying expiration dates, and pre-testing of equipment prior to insertion
• legal implications of surgical implants, such as malfunction of the product, recalls, improper use, and patient rejection or reaction.

Process/Skill Questions:

• How does the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulate medical devices?
• How have implants helped improve the quality of life for many patients?
• What are cochlear implants? What are the benefits and risks of cochlear implants for the patient?
• What are the most common reasons for breast implants? What surgical risks are involved in breast implants?
• What is the difference between a pacemaker and a defibrillator? What benefits can each bring to the cardiac patient? What risks are posed to the patient during the surgical implant of each device?