Final answer:
If the sponge count is incorrect in surgery, the surgical team must halt the procedure for a recount, search the operating room, and potentially use imaging to locate the missing sponge, following hospital protocol.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a sponge count is incorrect during a surgical procedure, it is a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately to prevent retained surgical items (RSIs). The surgical team must stop the procedure and conduct a thorough recount. If the count remains incorrect, further steps include searching the operating room, re-examining removed surgical drapes, and if necessary, using imaging techniques such as X-rays to locate the missing sponge. Surgical staff should follow the hospital's protocol for incorrect counts, and the incident must be documented appropriately.