Preparing an Operating Room for Surgery1. Designate an area outside of each operating room for health care

providers to prepare for surgery. Make sinks with foot pedal controls,

scrub kits (which contain an antiseptic soap and brush), sterile towels,

gowns, goggles, shoe covers, masks and head covers available in this

area. Ensure there is enough space for multiple health care providers to

scrub up simultaneously prior to each procedure.

2. Make several tables available in each operating room. One long table will

be needed for the patient to lie on while undergoing surgery. Use small

tables to hold equipment needed for each procedure. Prior to the patient’s

arrival, make sure the tables are cleaned and ready. Lay out all of the

equipment needed for the procedure (scalpels, clamps, scissors, etc.) on

the smaller tables in an area where they can be easily reached. Cover the

equipment with sterile sheets until surgery begins.

3. At the head of the patient table, make an area for the equipment needed

for anesthesia and respiratory needs. Place ventilators, intubation

equipment, oxygen tanks, oxygen-monitoring devices and IV pumps in the

area designated for anesthesia. Make sure the ventilator has the proper

tubing connected and is in working order. Position the ventilator and

oxygen-monitoring devices in a place where they can be easily seen and

monitored during each procedure.

4. Place a heart monitor, blood pressure measuring device, pulse and

respiration monitors, thermometers and other devices that monitor vital

signs near the patient where they can be seen and monitored easily

without interfering with the surgery. Make sure the monitor screens can be

seen and heard by health care providers during the procedure.

5. Set up an area to store equipment. Place extra equipment and equipment

not in use in a secure place which is easily accessible. Keep equipment

organized by grouping all equipment needed for certain procedures

together when possible. Label containers, drawers and cabinets according

to their contents.