Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) Practice Exam

Brown Adson forceps are specifically designed for grasping delicate tissue, which is their primary function in surgical applications. Their fine, serrated tips allow for a secure yet gentle grip on soft tissues without causing significant damage or trauma. This characteristic makes them ideal for procedures involving sensitive tissues, such as those found in plastic surgery or during delicate dissection.

In contrast, the other options focus on functions that Brown Adson forceps are not designed to perform. For instance, grasping dense tissues typically requires a different type of instrument that can handle more rugged textures without slipping, which is not the forte of Brown Adson forceps. Applying dressings involves instruments that are ideally suited for managing materials like gauze and bandages, rather than delicate tissue manipulation. Lastly, retracting the abdominal cavity is usually done with specialized retractors that provide wider exposure and stable support, rather than the precise, fine handling that Brown Adson forceps offer. Thus, they excel at grasping delicate tissues.