A team is defined as a group of people that come together to achieve a common goal.
Your surgical staff is a team with the common goal of helping the patient in the safest and most efficient manner possible. The goal is to first, do no harm, and second, help resolve the patient’s issue. To achieve these goals your staff needs to receive the proper training so they fully and completely understand their roles and the roles of their team members. Every team trains to achieve the highest levels of success. In football, the quarterback knows where his receivers will be, the running backs know where the blockers will be and everyone has an assignment to carry out. If the assignments are carried out properly by each individual the goals will be met. Training ensures that each team member can perform their duties at the highest levels.
Your surgical team is no different.
The OR team is responsible to ensure the patient is properly prepped for the case, consents are reviewed, and IV’s started. The patient needs to be marked and photographed, the OR needs to be set up and the entire team prepared for any unanticipated type of event. Your entire surgical team must be aware of not only their direct duties and responsibilities but those of the entire team. The importance of knowing your role and properly carrying it out can be seen clearly. When a running back’s assignment is to block the blitzing linebacker. If he performs his duty properly he will block the opposing player allowing the quarterback to throw the winning touchdown pass. If he does not properly perform his duty the quarterback gets tackled and they lose the game.
If you take the time to properly train your team you will find them to be more efficient and thus create a safer atmosphere for the patient.
Next: Understanding the Requirements for Your Outpatient Surgical Facility
