Operating Room (OR)

A specially designed, sterile environment equipped with surgical tools and technology, dedicated to performing surgical procedures.

 

Surgeon:

A highly trained and skilled medical professional who performs surgical procedures, leading the surgical team in the OR.

 

Surgical Team:

A collaborative group of healthcare professionals in the OR, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and surgical technologists.

 

Scrub Nurse/Scrub Tech:

A nurse or surgical technologist responsible for maintaining the sterile field, passing instruments to the surgeon, and assisting during the surgery.

 

Anesthesiologist:

A medical doctor specializing in administering anesthesia, ensuring the patient’s comfort and safety during surgery.

 

Sterile Field:

The designated area in the OR where sterile instruments and supplies are arranged, maintained, and utilized during surgery to prevent infection.

 

Surgical Scrubs:

Specialized clothing worn by surgical team members in the OR, including scrub tops, pants, and caps, designed to maintain cleanliness and reduce the risk of contamination.

 

Preoperative Area:

The space where patients prepare for surgery, undergoing necessary assessments, and receiving preoperative instructions.

 

Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU):

The recovery area where patients are monitored and cared for immediately after surgery until they are stable for transfer to a regular hospital room.

 

Surgical Instruments:

Tools used by surgeons during procedures, ranging from scalpels and forceps to retractors and electrocautery devices.

 

Laparoscopic Surgery:

Minimally invasive surgery where small incisions are made, and a camera is used to guide surgical instruments, reducing recovery time.

 

Circulating Nurse:

A registered nurse in the OR who manages non-sterile tasks, coordinates the flow of the surgical procedure, and communicates between the surgical team and other hospital departments.

 

Electrocautery:

A surgical technique that uses electrical currents to cut, coagulate, or seal tissues during surgery.

 

Intraoperative Monitoring:

Continuous assessment of the patient’s vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, during surgery.