CRCST Practice Exam

The part of ring-handled surgical instruments that locks the handles in place is

1. Clamp

2. Hinge

3. Latch

4. Ratchet

The correct answer is: Ratchet

The ratchet is a mechanical device with a toothed wheel that allows it to rotate in one direction and prevents it from moving in the opposite direction. In surgical instruments with ring handles, the ratchet mechanism ensures that the handles stay in place and do not accidentally open during a procedure. The other options, such as the clamp, hinge, or latch, do not have this specific function and are therefore incorrect choices. A clamp holds two objects together, a hinge allows for rotational movement, and a latch keeps something closed. While these may also be parts of surgical instruments, they do not serve the same purpose as a ratchet.