Tasks of a circulating nurse after scrub enters?

The circulating nurse has several important tasks and responsibilities after the scrub personnel enter the operating room. These tasks are crucial for maintaining a sterile field and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the surgical procedure.

1. Monitor Sterility:

- Continuously observe the sterile field and all aspects of the surgical environment to detect any potential breaches of sterility.

2. Manage Supplies and Equipment:

- Ensure that all necessary supplies, instruments, and equipment are available and organized in a manner that supports the surgical team.

3. Assist Scrubbed Personnel:

- Provide assistance to the scrubbed personnel as needed, such as retrieving items from outside the sterile field, adjusting lighting or equipment, and anticipating their needs.

4. Maintain Communication:

- Facilitate communication between the surgical team, anesthesia team, and other healthcare professionals involved in the procedure. Relay messages and requests accurately.

5. Manage Traffic:

- Control the flow of personnel in and out of the operating room to minimize disruptions and maintain sterility.

6. Document Events:

- Accurately document events, observations, and any deviations from standard protocols in the patient's medical record.

7. Prepare for Post-Op:

- As the procedure nears completion, prepare the patient's bed and any necessary recovery equipment in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or recovery room.

8. Waste Management:

- Properly handle and dispose of surgical waste, sharps, and soiled materials according to hospital protocols.

9. Secure Equipment and Supplies:

- After the procedure, ensure all equipment and supplies are accounted for, appropriately labeled, and secured for sterilization and reprocessing.

10. Communicate with PACU:

- Provide a detailed handover report to the PACU nurse, including patient condition, medications administered, and any relevant surgical information.

By efficiently managing these tasks, the circulating nurse plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, sterile, and organized surgical environment, facilitating smooth communication, and ensuring the seamless transition of the patient to the post-operative phase of care.