Question

Victor Krentz is assisting Dr. Conners with the fifth cataract surgery for the day. The patient is Kathy Eall, a diabetic patient whose condition has been stable enough for her to undergo a surgical procedure. Victor has performed a six-minute surgical scrub on his hands before esch of the five procedures. Dr. Conners indicates that he is in a hurry to get back to his office for a heavy afternoon schedule of patients. After both Dr. Conners and Victor are scrubbed, gowned, and ready to begin the procedure, Victor feels a slight prick on the tip of his gloved finger as he moves the sterile syringe and the needle on the tray. Dr. Conners, who does not notice the accidental needle stick to Victor's glove, states again that he is in a hurry to finish this procedure. Victor knows that it will delay the surgery if he has to change his gloves. He also knows that his hands have had a surgical scrub five times that morning and that they are clean.

o Can Victor justify not changing into new gloves? o What could happen to Ms. Wall as a result of Victor's needle stick? o Could Ms. Wall sue for malpractice if he does not wash his hands? o How should Victor handle this situation? behet

Answer 1

1. Victor could not justify his activity. It is a type of malpractice it may cause harmful effect of the patient. He should stop the surgery during the time of prick and wash hand with soap and water and wear sterile gloves.
2. Injury is due to the prick by sterile needle. So the patient have the chance of getting cross transmission from surgeon.So safe guarding the patient is very essential while doing proceedure.It comes under the principle of ethics.If any violation occure cause liability.
3. It is a type of malpractice which causes harmful effect of patient.
4. Victor Should stop doing surgery and follow the strict aseptic technique after injury and continue the surgery.