Vetinerary Assistant Practice Exam

What is the purpose of using hemostats during surgery?

1. To increase visibility

2. To hold tissues aside

3. To control bleeding

4. To administer medication

The correct answer is: To control bleeding

The primary purpose of using hemostats during surgery is to control bleeding. Hemostats are specialized surgical instruments designed to clamp blood vessels and tissues, effectively stopping blood flow in the area of surgery. By grasping blood vessels or tissues, they enable surgeons to maintain a clearer surgical field and minimize blood loss, which is crucial for both the success of the procedure and the safety of the patient. While hemostats may incidentally assist in increasing visibility by reducing blood loss, their main function is to facilitate hemostasis, which improves surgical conditions. Although they can hold tissues aside, this is a secondary function, as hemostats are mainly utilized to prevent hemorrhaging. Administering medication is not a function of hemostats, as other tools and techniques are employed for that purpose. Thus, the use of hemostats is essential in ensuring a safe surgical environment by effectively managing bleeding during operative procedures.