In the operating room, which phase is the nurse assisting with when participating in the sponge and instrument count?

The correct answer is the intraoperative phase because this phase encompasses activities that occur during the actual surgical procedure. During the intraoperative phase, the surgical team is actively involved in the operation, which includes ensuring the safety and accuracy of the surgical process. One critical aspect of this phase is the count of sponges, instruments, and other materials utilized during the surgery to prevent any items from being left inside the patient. This count is a fundamental safety measure aimed at reducing the risk of complications and ensuring that the surgery proceeds smoothly.

In contrast, the perioperative phase includes all stages of the surgical experience: preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative. The preoperative phase involves preparation before the surgery, such as obtaining consent and evaluating the patient. The postoperative phase refers to care after the surgery, including monitoring recovery and managing pain. Thus, while these phases are important, the specific activity of counting surgical items takes place exclusively during the intraoperative phase.