KeyBSNRN

Hello, I am also new to OR nursing ! I just recently transitioned from working in the ICU as a new grad into the circulating role. So far it's been great a lot to remember but going well. A few days after shadowing my preceptor I decided to exactly what you mentioned and come up with a check off list/ cheat sheet to cut back on forgetting steps so I start my cases off by first getting my preference card. Then I go line by line and pull all of my equipment and set it in my room. I then check my equipment, turn on my suction, attach my grounding pad to my bovie and since the majority of my cases use the setting if 30/30 for cut and coag I start there unless the cases calls for something different. Next I place my arm boards on, set up my SCD machine and attach my warmer. If the case calls for laprosoctic machines I input my patient data into equipment, pull up my X-rays if nesscary. Then I pull gloves and gowns for my surgeon, tech or any PA or assistants that may be present. I started a list on a small spiral book for things such a glove/ gown sizes, surgeon preferences for dressings, medication preferences, and things such things that are not included in the different packs ( ex. Minor pack - is missing a bovie handle, and laps). Then I open my cases even though this is something that most of the surgical techs is usual do but I thought it would be good practice. Then I pull my medications - usually I go by what's on the pref card but I started just making a metal note of surgeons preferences and thinking about what the case actually involves and pulling it if I end up not using I just put it back. Then I count, including my instruments, laps, ray-tec, sutures etc. and go see my patient. When I go see my patient I confirm there identity, check for their agnes this consent, surgeon consent, ask them if they have had anything to eat or drink, check that the site is marked if needed, check that there iv is working, labeled and that ABT is running, and comfort my patient record that interaction as my first time out then head to the OR.once in the room I help anesthia with the patient keep mental notes of my event times, position the patient apply safety belt, SCD's, grounding pad etc. then I help everyone gown up do my time out, and chart. Then I go back pull my normal saline, irrigation, and any other locals that may be used ex Marcan 5 %. I do my second count with my tech. And pretty much watch the field, chart and anticipate any needs that may arise. I could go on because I could have left out a few things but my post is getting kinda long !!!!!!! So I hope what I did include at least gives you a start.