How many people should perform a sponge count in the operating room?

A sponge count is a critical step in maintaining patient safety during surgical procedures, aimed at preventing retained surgical items. Having two people involved in the sponge count provides a system of checks and balances that enhances accuracy. Typically, one of those individuals is the registered nurse (RN) circulator, who plays a key role in maintaining overall patient safety and tracking surgical items.

The presence of two individuals allows for verification and cross-checking of the counts. This practice not only adheres to safety protocols but also fosters communication and collaboration among OR staff. It minimizes the risk of human error, which could lead to serious complications if sponges or other surgical instruments are unintentionally left inside the patient.

The other options fall short of providing the necessary safety measures: relying on just one person could lead to oversight, while involving all personnel may create confusion and complicate the counting process. Having only the lead surgeon perform the count neglects the vital input and oversight needed from the surgical team, particularly from the RN who ensures that all surgical items are accounted for throughout the procedure.