DUTIES OF CIRCULATING NURSE

Before an operation

• Checks all equipment for proper functioning such as cautery machine, suction machine, OR light and OR table
• Make sure theater is clean
• Arrange furniture according to use
• Place a clean sheet, arm board (arm strap) and a pillow on the OR table
• Provide a clean kick bucket and pail
• Collect necessary stock and equipment
• Turn on aircon unit
• Help scrub nurse with setting up the theater
• Assist with counts and records

During the Induction of Anesthesia

• Turn on OR light
• Assist the anesthesiologist in positioning the patient
• Assist the patient in assuming the position for anesthesia
• Anticipate the anesthesiologist’s needs
• If spinal anesthesia is contemplated:

Place the patient in quasi fetal position and provide pillow
Perform lumbar preparation aseptically
Anticipate anesthesiologist’s needs

After the patient is anesthetized

• Reposition the patient per anesthesiologist’s instruction
• Attached anesthesia screen and place the patient’s arm on the arm boards
• Apply restraints on the patient
• Expose the area for skin preparation
• Catheterize the patient as indicated by the anesthesiologist
• Perform skin preparation

During Operation

• Remain in theater throughout operation
• Focus the OR light every now and then
• Connect diatherapy, suction, etc.
• Position kick buckets on the operating side
• Replenishes and records sponge/ sutures
• Ensure the theater door remain closed and patient’ s dignity is upheld
• Watch out for any break in aseptic technique

End of Operation

• Assist with final sponge and instruments count
• Signs the theater register
• Ensures specimen are properly labeled and signed

After an Operation

• Hands dressing to the scrub nurse
• Helps remove and dispose of drapes
• Helps to prepare the patient for the recovery room
• Assist the scrub nurse, taking the instrumentations to the service (washroom)
• Ensures that the theater is ready for the next case

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