Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) 2025 Practice Exam – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The term that accurately describes an instrument that does not have current applied during an operative procedure is "nonpolar." In the context of surgical instruments, nonpolar refers to techniques or devices that do not require electrical current to function. This is significant because it indicates that these instruments can operate without the risk of electrical burns, which is particularly relevant in surgeries involving sensitive tissues or areas where electrical contact could lead to complications.

When considering the other options, bipolar instruments utilize electrical current, with separate active and return electrodes, which allows for precise cutting and coagulation of tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding areas. Unipolar instruments also apply current but involve a single electrode for current delivery, typically leading to a larger area of thermal injury than bipolar systems. Electrocautery refers specifically to a method that uses heat generated by electrical current to cut or coagulate tissue. Therefore, the term "nonpolar" is distinct because it specifically denotes the absence of electrical activity during the procedure, differentiating it from the other methods that involve some level of current.