A sponge is folded and placed in the jaws and then used for retracting tissue, absorbing fluids and occasionally for blunt dissection. The longitudinal groove in the jaw releases tension and prevents flattening of the needle. They are designed to provide the best exposure with a minimum of trauma to the surrounding tissue. Retractors come in various sizes with the blade usually at a right angle to the handle. The width and length of the blade and the use of sharp or dull blades depends on where the retractor is used.
Retractors are either self-retaining or manually held in place by a member of the surgical team.
During the operation, an informed perioperative nurse who can analyze the surgical procedure, and approach and identify each instrument and its specific function, will anticipate instrument needs and become a more valuable member of the surgical team. Operating Room Nursing - The Perioperative Role . Long and regular length knife handles with assortment of blades. Commonly used scissors for cutting tissue and suture material. Instruments used for blunt dissection.