How should hemostats be handled to avoid tissue trauma during use?

• A. Use maximum force to prevent slipping.
• B. Use atraumatic tips, minimal force, avoid sliding across tissue, and release and reposition as needed.
• C. Lock the clamp and leave it in place without repositioning.
• D. Keep the tips wetted and move slowly.

Answer: (B)

Minimize tissue trauma by handling hemostats with gentle, controlled force and careful technique. Use instruments with atraumatic tips that spread pressure smoothly rather than concentrating it on a small point. Apply only the minimal amount of force needed to hold tissue or secure a vessel; excessive pressure can crush and injure tissue. Avoid sliding the tips across tissue, which can tear or abrade delicate structures and disrupt any clots. Release the grip and reposition as needed to prevent continuous focal pressure and ischemia. Locking the clamp and leaving it in place without repositioning also increases the risk of tissue damage. Keeping tips moist and moving slowly can help reduce friction, but the essential practice is atraumatic tips, minimal force, no sliding, and periodic release and repositioning.