During surgical procedures, where should the surgical technologist look to find the most reliable information about necessary instruments?

The preference card is a critical tool in the operating room as it contains specific information about the instruments, supplies, and techniques preferred by the surgeon for particular procedures. Each surgeon typically has individualized preferences that are documented on these cards, ensuring that the surgical technologist has access to the most accurate and relevant information needed for the operation.

Utilizing the preference card allows the surgical technologist to efficiently prepare for the procedure by gathering the required instruments and supplies, which can improve the overall workflow in the operating room. It also helps streamline communication between the surgical team members, as everyone can refer to the same standard set of preferences for the case at hand. This reliability and specificity make the preference card the go-to resource for necessary instruments during surgeries.