Operating Theatre Techniques (PDF)

Operating Theatre Techniques describes the principles and techniques of operating theater nursing that correlate with different teaching programs and varied practices. The subject is treated from a nurse's view of the theater situation and of the job she has to perform. Personal attitude is discussed rather than assumed, since it is a big factor in teamwork and in respect for technique. The book can be adapted to any institution, regardless of bed capacity, location, available funds, diseases treated, and theater staff.

Comprised of 21 chapters, this book begins with an overview of the surgical team and the responsibility of each member with respect to patient care. The responsibility of the entire surgical team in preventing infections from occurring in the operating theater is then discussed, along with the hazards and some of the rules observed in hospital theaters to prevent them. Subsequent chapters focus on the importance of a nurse's personal attitude; the equipment used in an operating theater, including glassware; drugs and solutions used in the operating theater; and some important principles involved in the use of linen in the operating theater. The nurse's responsibility to the anesthetist is also described. The final chapter is a list of terms used in surgery.

This monograph is intended for nurses who want to gain basic knowledge in operating theater work, thereby increasing their value as members of the surgical team.