a. As the anesthetist brings the patient into the room, assist with patient positioning
as necessary.
(1) Loosen the covers around the patient's litter while the patient is outside the
room. Cover the patient's head to prevent the possibility of infection from hair or
dandruff from being scattered into the room. Help the anesthetist to bring the patient
into the room, and do not bump into sterile tables or other items.
(2) Check to be sure the operating table is in the appropriate position and is locked.
Check to make sure the litter is in appropriate place, side rail away from the table is up
and locked into place and that the litter wheels are locked. Then move to the far side of
the operating table to assist the anesthetist in moving the patient onto the table.
(3) The anesthetist helps to move the patient from the litter to the table. If the
patient is unable to help move himself, you are to obtain additional help.
(4) Position the leg strap two inches above the patient's knee and fasten it. Check the
strap to be sure it will not obstruct the patient's circulation. You should be able to
pass your hand between the strap and the patient's thighs. Loosen the strap if it is
fastened too tightly.
(5) Place the patient's arms at his sides and secure them in the lift sheet, or secured
upon arm boards.
(6) Once the patient is safe and secured, remove the litter from the room.
(7) Once the anesthetist begins his work with the patient, you are to be available only
to the anesthetist until the patient is anesthetized. During the induction stage of
anesthesia, stay beside the patient and assist the anesthetist if necessary. During the
induction of anesthesia, do not touch the patient. Also, be as quiet as possible. Hearing
is one of the last senses to dissipate during induction. Noise is accentuated for the
patient during this time and even minor noise will increase his apprehension.
b. Assist in placing the patient in the position for surgery after the anesthetist
indicates this is to be done.
c. Arrange the sheet covering the patient so that the operative area is exposed. Do not
expose the patient more than is necessary. Assist the surgeon with the skin preparation,
if necessary. Position a kick bucket so that it is convenient for the surgeon when he is
discarding sponges and other material.
NOTE:
The surgeon may request the circulator to perform the preoperative skin
preparation.
Primary
Content Providers: The U. S. Army, The U.S. Navy
Ancillary Content and Online Version: David L. Heiserman
Publisher: SweetHaven Publishing Services
