Assemble electrosurgical unit (ESU) and other hemostatic equipment/drugs.

Assembly should include putting together the components of the electrosurgical unit (ESU) and staplers, as needed, by

• maintaining the sterility of the ESU
• keeping the ESU in its holster when not in use
• assembling other hemostatic equipment/drugs (e.g., cell saver, gelfoam, thrombin).

Process/Skill Questions:

• What is the purpose of the ESU?
• What is the difference between the monopolar and the bipolar mode of the ESU?
• Why must the surgical technologist be skilled in the use of the ESU? In the safety hazards and precautions associated with ESU use? In troubleshooting the ESU?
• What is the surgical technologist’s role in assembling other hemostatic equipment? Preparing hemostatic drugs?
• Why is it important to remove charred tissue from the cautery instrument?