7. Surgical Team

who are the main members of the surgical team in the OR?

• scrub role (scrub nurse/surgical tech)

• circulating nurse

• surgeon

• anesthesiologist/CRNA

what is the scrub nurse in the OR?

maintains the sterile field and passes sterile instruments/supplies to the surgeon

what is the circulating nurse?

nonsterile OR nurse who coordinates care and protects patient safety

what is the surgeon’s main role during the intraoperative phase?

performs the procedure and directs the operative plan

what is the anesthesiologist’s main role in the OR?

• manages anesthesia

• monitors airway, breathing, and circulation throughout the procedure

what is a surgical time-out?

deliberate pause right before the procedure to confirm correct patient, correct procedure, and correct site

what details are confirmed during a surgical time-out?

correct patient, correct procedure, correct site

what is the circulating nurse’s primary role during the intraoperative phase?

acts as a patient advocate

how does the circulating nurse function as an OR leader?

manages the operating room and coordinates the patient’s care in the OR

what safety responsibilities does the circulating nurse perform in the OR?

• verifies informed consent

• ensures the time-out happens

• monitors the team

• helps maintain standards

how does the circulating nurse support the patient’s psychosocial needs during surgery?

reduces anxiety by supporting coping strategies and respecting cultural/spiritual preferences

what tasks does the circulating nurse complete for communication and documentation?

• documents care

• collects/sends specimens

• communicates with family