Journal of Perioperative & Critical Intensive Care Nursing
Open Access
ISSN: 2471-9870
ISSN: 2471-9870
Commentary - (2023)Volume 9, Issue 2
Operating room nursing care plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of patients undergoing surgical procedures. The operating room, also known as the OR or the theatre, is a highly specialized environment where surgical interventions take place. It requires a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room nurses, to provide comprehensive and meticulous care [1,2].
Preoperative nursing care begins well before the patient enters the operating room. Operating room nurses are involved in the preoperative assessment and preparation of patients. They collaborate with other healthcare professionals to review the patient's medical history, perform physical assessments, and ensure that all necessary tests and investigations are completed. They also play a crucial role in educating patients about the surgical process, including potential risks and complications, as well as postoperative care instructions. In addition to patient preparation, operating room nurses are responsible for ensuring that the operating room is properly set up and equipped [3-6]. They verify the availability and functionality of surgical instruments, sterilize and arrange them according to the surgeon's preferences, and ensure that the operating room environment is clean and aseptic. This involves adhering to strict infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, wearing sterile gowns and gloves, and maintaining a sterile field during the procedure [7-9].
During the intraoperative phase, operating room nurses provide direct patient care and support to the surgical team. They assist the anesthesia team in preparing the patient for anesthesia induction, ensuring that the patient is in the correct position, and administering any necessary medications. They monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the surgery and communicate any changes or concerns to the anesthesia team and surgeon [10]. Operating room nurses also play a critical role in maintaining a safe and aseptic environment by implementing sterile techniques, handling surgical instruments, and managing surgical specimens for laboratory analysis [11,12].
Apart from their clinical responsibilities, operating room nurses serve as advocates for patients during surgery. They ensure that patient safety is prioritized, including verifying the correct patient, surgical site, and procedure before the start of the surgery. They also monitor and document all aspects of the surgical procedure, such as the administration of medications, fluid balance, and any unexpected events or complications that may arise. Operating room nurses act as a liaison between the surgical team, patients, and their families, providing updates and support throughout the procedure [13].
Postoperative nursing care begins as soon as the surgical procedure is completed. Operating room nurses assist with the transfer of patients to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) or the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), depending on the patient's condition and the nature of the surgery. They closely monitor the patient's vital signs, assess pain levels, and provide appropriate interventions, such as administering pain medications or initiating wound care. They also educate patients and their families about postoperative care instructions, including incision care, pain management, and signs of complications [14,15].
Operating room nurses continue to be involved in the postoperative phase, even after the patient has left the operating room. They participate in multidisciplinary rounds and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless continuity of care. They provide ongoing assessments, monitor wound healing, and facilitate the patient's transition to a general ward or the home setting. Operating room nurses also contribute to quality improvement initiatives by participating in audits, analyzing data, and implementing evidence-based practices to enhance patient outcomes and improve overall surgical care.
Citation: Watson K (2023) Operating Room Nursing Care: Bridging the Gap between Surgery and Recovery. J Perioper Crit Intensive Care Nurs. 9:219
Received: 17-May-2023, Manuscript No. JPCIC-23- 24726; Editor assigned: 19-May-2023, Pre QC No. JPCIC-23- 24726 (PQ); Reviewed: 05-Jun-2023, QC No. JPCIC-23- 24726; Revised: 12-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. JPCIC-23- 24726 (R); Published: 19-Jun-2023 , DOI: 10.35248/2471-9870.23.9.219
Copyright: © 2023 Watson K. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.