What is a hemostat commonly used for?

A hemostat is specifically designed to clamp blood vessels and control bleeding during surgery. This tool functions by grasping the vessel and occluding it, allowing the surgeon to manage blood loss effectively during procedures. Hemostats come in various sizes and shapes, including straight and curved forms, tailored for different surgical contexts, especially when precision is necessary to prevent hemorrhaging.

While holding tissues during surgery, as mentioned in one of the choices, is a function associated with other surgical instruments like forceps, the primary purpose of a hemostat is to secure and control bleeding. The use of a hemostat is critical in maintaining a clear surgical field, as excessive bleeding can complicate procedures and lead to increased risks for the patient. It's important for surgical technologists to understand this essential tool and its primary applications to support the surgical team effectively.