Who’s Who in the Operating Room?
If you're preparing for surgery, it's completely normal to feel a bit nervous or unsure about what happens once you’re taken into theatre. One of the most common questions I’m asked by patients is: “Who will actually be in the room during my operation?”
Surgery is a carefully coordinated effort carried out by a team of highly trained medical professionals. Your operation will typically be performed in a fully accredited hospital, where your safety, comfort, and privacy are always the highest priority.
Here’s a quick introduction to the key members of the surgical team and their roles. Depending on the type of procedure you're having, some or all of these professionals may be present during your operation.
1. The Specialist Plastic Surgeon
As your Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, I am responsible for the actual surgery. I work closely with my team to ensure your procedure is as safe and smooth as possible.
2. The Anaesthetist
The Anaesthetist is a medical specialist who administers your anaesthetic to ensure you're asleep or sedated, and pain-free during the procedure. They monitor your vital signs like breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels throughout the operation and manage your recovery from anaesthesia.
3. The Scrub Nurse
The Scrub Nurse will assist me directly and oversees maintaining a sterile environment. The Scrub Nurse hands instruments to me and helps ensure everything is clean and ready at each step of the procedure.
4. The Scout Nurse (Circulating Nurse)
The Scout Nurse supports the team by bringing any extra equipment and opening sterile items. They work outside the sterile field and make sure the surgical team has everything they need within the sterile field.
5. The Surgical Assistant
The Surgical Assistant is usually a doctor or experienced nurse who helps me during the procedure. They may assist with tasks such as holding instruments, assisting with exposure and lighting, all under my direct guidance.
6. (Sometimes) A Medical Student or Observer
When I work in a public teaching hospital, a medical student may be present to learn. They are not directly involved in your care, but they observe and learn from my interactions with you. If I am working in a private hospital, there is usually no medical student.
In Summary
Surgery is carried out by a dedicated and experienced team in an accredited hospital facility with utmost safety. Each member plays a vital role in your care, safety, and outcome. Understanding who is in the room can help ease anxiety and make you feel more confident about your surgery.
Dr. Jenaleen Law
Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon
MED0001775113
