The RN completing the final count for a knee arthroscopy discovers that an atraumatic needle is missing. After an exhaustive search, an X-ray is ordered; results are negative and the surgeon closes the wound. How does the RN document the incident?

• A. Document that the count was incorrect or unreconciled and describe the steps that were taken to rectify the count
• B. Document that the count was correct because the x-ray was negative
• C. Notify the supervisor and document what he or she instructs according to policy
• D. Inform the patient that a needle may have been left in the wound

Answer: (A)