Instrument Handling

Scissors and Hemostats:

	The thumb and ring finger are inserted into the rings of the scissors while the index and middle finger are used to guide the instrument.
	The instrument should remain at the tips of the fingers for maximum control.

This is the wrong way to hold the scissors. The ring finger should be inserted into the ring.

This is also the wrong way to hold the scissors. The tips of the scissors should be pointing upwards.

Thumb Forceps:

Thumb forceps are held like a pencil.

Thumb Forceps:

	Thumb Forceps are not called 'tweezers'.
	Thumb Forceps are not held like a knife.

Scalpels:

	The scalpel is held with thumb, middle and ring finger while the index finger is placed on the upper edge to help guide the scalpel.
	Long gentle cutting strokes are less traumatic to tissue than short chopping motions.

The scalpel should never be used in a "stabbing" motion.