Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution (CBSPD) Sterile Processing Technician Practice Exam

How is an instrument with tungsten carbide inserts typically identified?

1. By silver handles

2. By black handles

3. By gold handles

4. By red handles

The correct answer is: By gold handles

Instruments with tungsten carbide inserts are typically identified by their gold handles. Tungsten carbide is a durable and hard material that is often used in the cutting edges of surgical instruments to enhance their longevity and performance. The gold coloring on the handles serves not only as a visual identifier but also indicates that the instrument is designed for precision cutting and durability, which are properties enhanced by the tungsten carbide inserts. Instruments with different colored handles may signify varying materials or purposes. For example, black handles usually pertain to instruments made from stainless steel with a different finish, while silver handles are common for standard stainless steel instruments lacking specific enhancements. Red handles often indicate instruments that are specifically designed for particular functions or specialties, such as those used in minimally invasive procedures. Thus, gold handles distinctly denote the presence of tungsten carbide inserts, highlighting their specialized function in surgical settings.