After making the skin incision for a craniotomy, what should the surgical technologist anticipate will be needed next?

Following the skin incision for a craniotomy, the surgical technologist should anticipate the need for Raney clips. These clips are specifically designed to provide hemostasis during craniotomy procedures by clamping the edges of the scalp incisions. Their use helps to control bleeding from the scalp vessels, which is crucial in maintaining a clear surgical field and ensuring patient safety.

The other instruments mentioned, while important in different contexts, are not typically used immediately after the initial skin incision in this procedure. Scissors may be used for cutting tissues, but they are not the primary tool for hemostasis at this stage. Hemostats are essential for controlling bleeding, yet they are often used after the incision has been made, particularly on deeper tissues rather than the scalp. Scalpel blades are indeed used for incisions, but their function has already been fulfilled by the initial incision, making Raney clips the most relevant item to anticipate next.