Tungsten carbide inserts
Sterile processing definition
Tungsten carbide inserts are very hard jaw or blade inserts used in instruments like needle holders and scissors to make them last longer and grip better. Instruments with tungsten carbide inserts are commonly identified by gold-colored ring handles.
On the CRCST exam
A common identification question: gold handles usually mean tungsten carbide inserts.
Exam domain: Preparation & Packaging (about 21% of the exam)
Preparation & Packaging practice questions
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