Which is a responsibility of the circulating nurse before the start of a procedure?

a. Drape the Mayo stand and back table
b. Inspect sterile instruments for imperfections and condition
c. Count instruments
d. Assemble the scalpel blade in the proper handle

ANS: C
The scrub person counts all instruments, sponges, and sharps with the circulating nurse. The scrub person drapes and sets up the Mayo stand and back table alone when inspecting instruments such as scissors and forceps for alignment, imperfections, cleanliness, and working condition. Scalpel blades should be properly set in handles using a heavy instrument, not fingers, per the scrub person.