OPERATING ROOM NURSE


REQUIRED QUESTIONS

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  1. Does the department designate an anesthesiologist to help manage the day-to-day schedule?
  2. Is safety the top priority in the anesthesia department?
  3. Is there open and effective collegial communication between your service and the anesthesia department?
  4. Are qualified anesthesia personnel present in the operating room and vigilant throughout all anesthetics?
  5. Is the end-tidal CO2 alarm audible (any time the monitor is in use?)
  6. Are necessary drugs, code cart, defibrillator, and help available for crisis management in all anesthetizing locations?
  7. Is a pre-surgical "time-out" conducted in every case, and do anesthesiologists and CRNAs willingly and courteously participate in it?
  8. Does a mechanism exist to call for help and declare an emergency? Do OR nurses know what this mechanism is, how to describe it, and how to activate it?
  9. If medically directing non-physician anesthesia providers, are anesthesiologists immediately available and responsive to their needs and are they present for critical portions of the anesthetic?
  10. Would you allow any member of this anesthesia department to anesthetize you or a family member?

OPTIONAL QUESTIONS

  1. If music is played during surgery, does it detract from care?
  2. Is music attenuated during critical portions of the procedure or when any member of the team requests it?
  3. Do you work toward goals as a team?
  4. If requested, does the anesthesia department assist in providing educational opportunities for you and/or your colleagues?
  5. Is the anesthesia department actively involved in "Clinical Quality Value Analysis" and/or other cost effectiveness measures?
  6. Is the anesthesia department actively involved in a recycling program and/or efforts to reduce waste?
  7. Is there a standard procedure for hand offs during anesthesia?
  8. Are mock codes, operating room fires, or other critical events in OR practiced and do anesthesia staff members participate if/when asked?
  9. Is the anesthesia department actively engaged in running the operating room, improving efficiency, and providing adequate access to the operating room?
  10. Are anesthesiologists attentive to patients, and do you have confidence in the members of the department?
  11. Do members of the department request for help from colleagues when clinically indicated?

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