Stat C/S, OR cluster

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Last night was my first night after being off for a week. At the end of the shift our educator asked if I had time for a chat. Apparently she had received some feedback from one of our doctors (one whom I really respect and admire) regarding the last shift I worked in which we had taken one of her patients to the OR for an emergency C/S. The feedback that I received was that she felt concerned for me, that it seemed like I was overwhelmed and that I needed some more support around the OR. Granted, I acknowledge that the situation was one big cluster. I did feel overwhelmed (but I didn't realize it was so apparent). We rarely go to the OR on night shift. This was only my 3rd time taking a pt to the OR after finishing my orientation in March. One thing I guess I didn't realize was that my role (as the circulator) is to anticipate the doctors needs that are going to come up while in there (hand up, vaccuum, etc) and be prepared for them. My educator was super helpful in offering to give me more days to orient to the OR or whatever else I think would be helpful. I'm not quite sure what would be helpful though...I feel like since we only go to the OR in an emergency on night shift, orienting to more days of scheduled non-chalant unhurried cases would not be very productive. Any ideas? Feedback? How did you get confidence/proficiency in the OR?

thanks!

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Specializes in Perinatal.

No advice here, since I'm in the same situation. I trained on PM shift and now work nights, so all my c/s experience has been emergencies or close to. I feel very unsure and clumsy in the OR since I have such little experience. I dread it :( Luckily, the times I have gone, there's usually another nurse available to help me, at least in the beginning. It always feels so scary and chaotic. I am not a fan of the OR!

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Specializes in NICU, L&D and ED.

I have a couple ideas for you. I have both scrubbed and circulated for c-sections. I worked in a busy level III for almost 5 years.

When another nurse goes for c-section go with and offer to help if you are able to. Also planning emergency drills on your unit can help become more comfortable and help you learn what type of things to anticipate.

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Specializes in Operating room..

Any exposure to the OR will help...emergent or not...play out different scenarios while there...what if...what would I do...the first circulator role (a GOOD first circulator) is incredibly important...people say they are nothing more than a "gopher" but when you get a good first circulator they know what will happen before the Dr knows and they anticipate it...also, keep notes and refer to them. I have been in the OR for over 6.5 years (love it)...keep notes, anticipate, play the "what if" game in your head...know where stuff is that you may run for (and what it's called). It will be a year before you don't feel stupid in the OR....it just takes time and exposure. Good luck!

MereSanity BSN, RN, CNOR

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