What are Retractors?
Retractors are essential surgical instruments used to hold back tissue and organs to provide better access and visibility for the surgeon during an operation. They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, each tailored for specific types of surgeries or anatomical areas. Understanding and properly utilizing retractors is a critical skill for nurses, especially those working in the operating room.
Types of Retractors
There are numerous types of retractors, which can be broadly categorized into two main groups:
hand-held retractors and
self-retaining retractors.
Hand-held Retractors: These require manual operation by the surgical team. Examples include
Army-Navy retractors and
Senn retractors.
Self-retaining Retractors: These can be locked in place to hold tissues without constant manual effort. Popular examples are the
Balfour retractor and the
Weitlaner retractor.
Roles of Nurses in Managing Retractors
Nurses play a pivotal role in the management and proper usage of retractors during surgeries. Their responsibilities include: Preparation: Ensuring that the correct type and size of retractors are available and sterile before the procedure begins.
Assistance: Assisting the surgeon by properly positioning and holding hand-held retractors, if needed.
Maintenance: Keeping retractors clean and in good working condition to prevent any complications during surgery.
Commonly Used Retractors in Nursing
Some of the commonly used retractors in the nursing field include: Army-Navy Retractor: A double-ended, hand-held retractor commonly used in minor surgeries.
Richardson Retractor: A hand-held retractor specifically designed for deeper tissue retraction.
Gelpi Retractor: A self-retaining retractor utilized in orthopedic and neurosurgical procedures.
Safety and Precautions
When using retractors, nurses must adhere to strict safety protocols to minimize the risk of injury or infection. Key precautions include: Proper Sterilization: Ensuring that all retractors are properly sterilized before use to prevent
infection.
Correct Handling: Using the appropriate technique for positioning and removing retractors to avoid tissue damage.
Regular Inspection: Conducting regular checks on retractors for any signs of damage or wear, replacing them as necessary.
Training and Competence
Nurses must undergo thorough training to become proficient in the use of retractors. This includes: Theoretical Knowledge: Understanding the different types of retractors, their specific uses, and the anatomy involved.
Practical Skills: Gaining hands-on experience in positioning, adjusting, and removing retractors during surgical procedures.
Continuing Education: Keeping up-to-date with advancements in surgical techniques and new retractor designs through ongoing education and training.
Conclusion
Retractors are indispensable tools in the surgical field, and their proper use is crucial for the success of surgical procedures. Nurses play a vital role in managing retractors, ensuring that they are used safely and effectively. Through comprehensive training and adherence to safety protocols, nurses can significantly contribute to the positive outcomes of surgeries.
