Tips on working with challenging Scrub Tech

Specialties Operating Room

Published

Hello,

I was just wondering if anyone can give me advice on working with a challenging scrub tech. This scrub tech stated, "Your learning by trail and error. Not sure why they don't want to train you?" I'm new in the OR with not much training, and this same scrub tech I work with daily always intentionally set me up for failure. She does things such as unhook my suction, turn off my SCD, and things I place on the counter for the case seem to disappear like my lactate ringer. Another employee noticed that the LR I placed on the counter was missing. I'm not sure how to address this issue without being sabotaged more?

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Specializes in OR, Nursing Professional Development.

Have you spoken with the person about what is going on? That's usually step 1, unless there are patient safety issues. If the situation cannot be resolved one to one or she is intentionally sabotaging not just you but safe patient care, it needs to be reported to the immediate supervisor. You can also request to not be assigned with this person, but that may or may not go over well. What trusted resources do you have that you can turn to?

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Perhaps enlist the advice/assistance of your licensed colleagues? Maybe they had to deal with the same behavior and have a successful tip to gain control over the situation. Otherwise, take the problem to your supervisor. Seriously doubt that talking to this person will do any good. In other venues, such as LTC, the CNAs, etc. know when they have the run of the building because supervision is lax. You may be on your own, so get out the pen and paper.

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Hi RoseQueen

I have not spoken to the person out of fear that things will get worse. Not sure if I should get management involved. I will take your advice and speak with her. Patient safety is a concern. Thank you.

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Caliotter,

I will start documenting. Thank you

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Caliotter,

I will start documenting. Thank you

Documenting, even if only a personal "notebook", is never a bad idea. If it is a personal journal, make sure not to tell anyone else at work that you have started this, since the entire journal is subject to subpoena. Written reprimand type papers, keep your copy, give a copy to the person you have talked to, and the original goes to HR (through the supervisor) for their personnel file. You never know when something might change and management starts to grind its wheels about dealing with problem personnel. You want your write-ups to be there when that happens.

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Specializes in RN.

What happened in the end? I also had to document because of a situation like this. Horrible!

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