Setup for a C-Section (South College, Knoxville, TN)

Surgical technologists promote maternal and neonatal patient safety during a Cesarean section (C-section) procedure by creating the sterile field, preparing a well-organized back table and Mayo stand, providing accurate surgical counts with the circulating nurse, and being prepared for possible complications. This educational video provides an example of how to arrange the sterile field, organize supplies and instrumentation, and perform the initial count with the circulating nurse.

A C-section is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide, and as with any operation, proper sterile field preparation is fundamental to successful outcomes and infection prevention.¹ Obstetric surgery requires specialized instrumentation and systematic organization to address both routine deliveries and emergency complications that may arise.

Surgical site infections following C-section delivery occur in 3–15% of cases, and proper sterile technique is a primary preventive factor.² The use of aseptic technique and other standardized protocols can reduce procedural delays, minimize contamination risks, and improve overall surgical team coordination.³

The surgical technologist may want to double-drape the back table and Mayo stand to add an extra layer of protection against contamination. Before accepting instrument trays or other items onto the sterile field, the surgical technologist must verify the integrity of each container or wrapped package with the circulator. This involves examination of seals, sterilization indicators, and expiration dates. The circulator must also check that each container or package has not been contaminated by moisture.

In this video, the back table is divided into three sections: sharps and soft goods are positioned on the working end (closest to the patient); surgical instruments are placed in the middle; gowns, drapes, and towels are placed on the non-working end, farthest from the patient. Forceps are separated by type (atraumatic or smooth from traumatic or toothed). Smooth forceps are placed closest to the working end of the table. Separating sharp from smooth forceps helps to reduce the risk of passing the wrong type to the surgeon.

Items specific to C-sections are grouped together for use at the time of delivery: placenta basin, cord blood collection materials, vacuum extraction device for fetal delivery assistance, suction bulb aspirator, and a cap for the newborn’s head.

An initial surgical count, including soft goods, sharps, and instruments, must be performed  with the circulating nurse before the surgery can begin. Instruments that will be used at the start of the case are transferred to the Mayo stand, including retractors, hemostatic clamps, and scissors. A "no-pass zone" may be established using a sterile pad for temporary scalpel placement.

Nothing to disclose.