Operation Theatre (OT) is a department of the hospital where wonders happen. However, to make such wonders, one must make sure to follow the right procedure and operation theatre rules learned during his academic training. An OT team consists of the surgeon, the anaesthetist, scrub nurse, circulating nurse, assisting surgeons, OT technician, and other assisting paramedical personnel. Therefore, if you have finished your training on Operation Theatre Technician course and are willing to be a part of the OT team, then you ought to have some etiquette knowledge about operation theatre and the rules of operation theatre.
It is obvious for a fresher to feel the anxiety and nervousness while entering the operation theatre for the first time, but all you need is to remember your training and coordinate with your team.
Operation Theatre Etiquette
For beginners, the operation theatre is always an uncharted territory where a novice is unaware of the various rules of operation theatre. Therefore, we provide you with some basic operation theatre rules:
- Have a good meal before entering the OT and empty your bladder. Some surgeries might go on for longer duration.
- Switch off your phones or keep them in silent mode.
- Remove your jewellery.
- Make sure you go through the patient’s medical records and about the surgery beforehand.
- Wear the OT gears (clean scrub with theatre shoes, cap, and mask) before you enter the operation theatre.
- Also, your identification card must be visible to everyone.
- Introduce yourself to the OT supervisor, the main surgeon, the anaesthetist, and all present. They are your actual mentors at that particular time.
- Confirm the Patient Identity before shifting Patient to OT.
- Cross verify if the Procedural consent is signed before patient shifting.
- Ensure Patient dentures or movable artificial teeth are removed before shifting the patient.
- Mark the surgical side and site before Patient shifting.
What to do inside the Operation Theatre?
If you’re fresher and it is your first time inside the operation theatre, then first, you must make sure that you are not nervous and remember your training to give you confidence. Of course, you’ve taken tips and advice from your seniors before entering the OT, but here are some tips for you from our experts of Tech Mahindra SMART Academy for Healthcare on what you can do inside the operation theatre:
- Make yourself as useful as possible. Help transfer the patient from the bed to the operating table.
- Offer to assist in the pre-operative procedures, complete the documentation, provide an appropriate position to the patient as instructed by the surgeon.
- Always ask if you can scrub up for a case as hands-on experience is very necessary.
- Before you scrub, apply your mask and safety goggles, if required. Then open a sterile gown pack and gloves of the right size. Check the expiry date on the packet to avoid allergic reactions. Do the same for your seniors.
- Once scrubbed, clasp your hands together at the level of your chest, if you are standing away from the sterile surgical field. This will prevent you from becoming contaminated.
- If, on the other hand, you are standing near the OT table, you can place your hands flat in the sterile area. Do not break the sterility of the operative field, as it can cause several infections to the patient postoperatively.
- Keep the operating field unobstructed. You can assist in passing swabs, perform suctioning when required. Don’t forget to count the number of swabs before passing them on to the surgical field. Also, your role as a human retractor may be called on.
- Don’t take anything personally, keep it professional, as there can be any unpleasant reaction by any of the members present in an OT due to any high-stress situation.
- During the surgery, do not touch any article on the instrument trolley. Ask and wait to be handed over an instrument by the working staff.
- When the surgeon starts suturing, take the initiative and have scissors ready in hand to cut the ends of the suture.
- Remember to return all instruments once you have finished.
- After the operation, de-scrub efficiently and assist wherever required.
- If you get a needle stick injury, inform the team immediately.
- If you feel dizzy, do not be embarrassed to admit this and excuse yourself. If it is too late, step backwards to avoid contaminating the operative field. Maintain the sanctity of the sterile field.
- Rules of operation theatre emphasize that theatre is a fun learning experience, so if you have any questions, then just ask at the right time and refrain from hesitation.
Operating Room Etiquette for Paramedics
Operation theatre is one of the most dangerous areas as a single slip can lead to the death of the patient; that is why there are certain rules of entry in OT for paramedics when attending to patients. It is important to be professional, be on the lookout all the time, and know the rules of operation theatre.
Preparing for the Operating Room
Preparation is important for a paramedic before getting into the operation theatre. It is advisable to take some food and water with you as some of the procedures may take quite a while. It is recommended to go to the washroom before the commencement of the meeting so as not to be called out. Personal grooming is also required by wearing clean scrubs, surgical masks, and appropriate shoes and removing any ornaments. Mobile phones should be switched off or placed on silent to avoid any form of interference during the test.
Understanding the Surgical Procedure
It is important for paramedics to be aware of the kind of surgery that is to be conducted since every operation is unique. Patient records, the surgical plan, and personal expectations are the three key areas that the patient’s caregiver should review to be ready. It is important to ensure the patient’s identity before moving them to the operation theatre.
Effective Communication and Teamwork
It is professional to introduce oneself to the surgical team when joining the operation theatre. It is essential to be clear and brief in communication to avoid misunderstandings. It is a stressful place and that is why paramedics must be attentive and friendly. If they have any questions, they should ask at the right time that will not interrupt the process.
Handling High-Stress Situations
It is a rather stressful environment, particularly when working in an emergency situation. The paramedics must remain calm and perform the instructions as instructed with precision. If they feel dizzy or unwell, they should step back to minimize the chances of infecting the field with bacteria. The aspects like quick decision-making and working under pressure are vital to ensure the safety of the patient and to support the surgical team.
Post-Surgery Responsibilities
After the surgery, the patient may be helped to de-scrub, move to the recovery room, and contribute to the cleanup of the operation theatre by paramedics. Returning instruments, proper disposal of medical waste, and following all the rules of operation theatre are important in enhancing the functionality of the operation theatre.
Importance of Operation Theatre Rules
This paper will discuss the manners that will enable a paramedic to effectively work with the operation theatre team. They can help in surgical operations in as much as they will respect professionalism, rules of entry in OT, sterility measures, and the instructions given. By understanding these principles, they improve their skills and at the same time protect the patient from any harm while operating within the operation theatre.
Join Tech Mahindra SMART Academy’s Operation Theatre Technician Course
At Tech Mahindra SMART Academy for Healthcare, you can join our Operation Theatre Technician course and become a skilled healthcare professional in just 2 years. Our Diploma program will include practical as well as on-the-job training to help you understand the rules of entry in OT and the work environment.
With the increase in demand for healthcare professionals across the world, opting for a career in healthcare is a smart option. Today, our SMART Academies have a placement rate of over 70%, and our students are placed across the nation in reputed healthcare institutes. If you like this blog, then do share it with your friends who want to become a healthcare professional.
