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
