Tips on... Theatre etiquette
Theatre is uncharted territory for many. Here are a few
basic tips to help keep you out of trouble.
- Read the
patient's notes and about the operation beforehand - you may be
quizzed
- Before you enter
theatre change into scrubs, theatre shoes, hat, and mask, and clearly
display your identification badge
- Introduce
yourself to theatre sister, the surgeons, and the anaesthetist
- Make yourself
as useful as possible. Help transfer the patient from the bed to the
operating table, offer to insert a urinary catheter, complete histology
forms, position and shave the patient as appropriate
- Always ask if
you can scrub-up for a case.
- Before you
scrub, apply your mask and safety goggles. Then open a sterile gown pack
and gloves of the right size. Do the same for your seniors
- Once scrubbed,
if standing away from the operating field, clasp your hands together at the
level of your chest. This avoids you becoming contaminated. If on the other
hand, you are standing at the table place your hands flat in the sterile
area.
- Keep the
operating field unobstructed. You can aid exposure by using swabs and
suctioning. In addition, your role as a human retractor may be called on
- During the
operation do not touch the instrument trolley. Ask and wait to be handed an
instrument
- When sutures
are being tied, have scissors ready and use the tips to cut ends
- Remember to
return all instruments once you have finished
- If you get a
needlestick injury inform the team immediately
- If you feel
faint - do not be embarrassed to admit this and excuse yourself. If it
is too late, fall backwards to avoid contaminating the operative field
- Theatre is a
fun learning experience, so if you have any questions - just ask
Kaji Sritharan, research fellow, Imperial College of Medicine, London
Email: kajisritharan@yahoo.co.uk
Vivian A Elwell, senior house officer, surgical rotation, St Mary's Hospital, London
studentBMJ 2005;13:177-220 May ISSN 0966-6494
