Student - Dizziness in the OR

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Hi -Has this happened to anyone?

I am currently a Surg Tech (heading to nursing school next year - BSN and hopefully CNOR later). I started my clinical this week at local hospital - first time OR for me.

Both mornings, about an hour into the procedure I became very dizzy - I had about a two- minute warning before I needed to step away from the field or else hit the floor. Its weird, I seem to be working along with my preceptor just fine, and then wham, this dizziness hits me. I am mortified. I don't want to be perceived as "can't handle the OR."

I did not have any dizziness on either day in the afternoon. I was able to start and finish with no lightheadedness.

I did take a proactive step and check with my doctor - she said eat more protein as close to the procedure as I can. Drink more water and less coffee.

Any thoughts/suggestions?

Thanks :imbar

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Specializes in 5 yrs OR, ASU Pre-Op 2 yr. ER.

If you have a basin of saline or water on your table, put a hand in it. That helps me.

Before a case, eat something with peanut butter on it. Instant protein. Drink plenty of water.

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Try to avoid locking your knees while standing in the OR. It could be that decreased blood flow is causing your dizziness.

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Specializes in jack of all trades, master of none.

Ditto the protein & not locking your knees!!!!

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Specializes in ER.

I usually have to go one further than not locking my knees and make sure I remember to move my calf muscles. I go up and down on my tiptoes, pick up one foot, then another.....otherwise, that standing still cuts down too much on the venous return and down I go!

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Specializes in Home Health Care,LTC.

All my suggestions were mentioned just wanted to say Good luck and keep trying.

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