Last time we looked at O.R. essentials, I gave you my top 6 favorite things that I use when I’m working in the O.R. They are items that can be purchased, and I feel that they improve my day when I use them or wear them. But, I realized that I really should have made it my Top 7 instead! I forgot to include my watch! I don’t know of any nurse who can go to work without a watch. I know I definitely can’t get through my day without it!

But, even including my forgotten watch, that list was made up entirely of items that you can buy. If you don’t have them, you can get them. All it takes is a few clicks on your computer or a trip to the store. And viola! You have some cool stuff. In reality though, it takes more than just a trip to the store to make anyone a good nurse. And the things that truly make us successful in our jobs aren’t really things at all.

Some things just can’t be bought. Money can’t buy a good work ethic, honesty, integrity, or even genuine kindness. And in today’s essentials for working in the O.R., we’re going to look at the qualities and character traits that you either possess or develop in order to have a successful career in the operating room.

How would you describe an O.R. nurse?

What qualities or character traits do you believe every good O.R. nurse needs to possess?

We will sometimes ask this question during interviews, and I’m always curious to hear what other nurses will say. But, surprisingly enough, everyone generally gives the same answers. Maybe they don’t give the whole list, but there are a few common words that are always used to describe an O.R. nurse.

You’ve probably already made your own list as well. I’m sharing my top 5 today. What’s on your list?

Here’s my top 5:

#1. Integrity

Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles. And this is a fundamental trait necessary for anyone who works in healthcare. Whether it’s being able to own up to a mistake and admitting an error, or it’s following the rules, even when no one is watching – including the rules that we don’t like. We have to be people of integrity. Our patients are trusting us, and depending on us to always do the right thing.

#2. Ability to Prioritize

O.R. nurses have to know how to filter through everything that’s going on and determine which request gets filled first. If anesthesia, the surgeon, the scrub tech, and the x-ray tech all need something, we’re the ones prioritizing those needs. Sometimes in an order that someone else doesn’t agree with. But, we put our patient’s safety first, and we prioritize needs around them.

#3. Flexibility

Flexibility is the name of the game in the O.R. If you can’t adapt to change, or if you want everything to follow a rigid schedule, you just won’t make it in the O.R.

I really do think that flexibility is something that can be learned over time, though. You learn to accept that things will change, sometimes very quickly, and you learn to just go with the flow. And, as an added benefit, when you learn to just “roll with it,” you take away one of your many stressors! It’s a win-win!

#4. Handles Stress Well

We work under alot of stress. And it comes from a variety of sources: surgeons, patients, coworkers, and management; turn-over times, incorrect pref cards, and back ordered supplies – just to name a few. How well do you handle it?

All of us have days where we are better at keeping calm under pressure, and we have days where the stress gets to us and we lose it. I understand. This job ain’t easy.

Surgeons yell, patients go downhill fast, your room suddenly needs a new set-up or new trays, your boardrunner is moving cases all over the board and you can’t keep up with what case you’re getting next…the list could go on and on…. But as a general rule, how well you can handle the various demands of your O.R. on a daily basis will determine your long-term success in this specialty.

#5. Efficiency

Multi-tasking, time management, being prepared, and planning ahead all fall into this category of “efficiency.” What are you doing with your time? Do you have to make multiple trips to the supply room because you only go after one thing each trip, or are you able to look ahead at what you will need for your case, and gather everything at one time?

Managing your time well includes being able to prioritize needs in your O.R., but it also includes all of the time spent before, during, and after cases. What are you doing in the morning before cases start? What do you do during turnover? Working to ensure that you are never the cause of a delay is a constant job (you can insert the word stressor here, too) that requires planning ahead and managing the time that you have wisely.

But, don’t let your efficiency be confused with being fast.

Efficiency is good – it makes the most of your time each day. If you’re just focused on being fast, you’re going to be exhausted and you may be tempted to cut corners. Too often hospital administration is breathing down our necks, focusing on our turnover times at the expense of everything else. We’re pushed to go faster and faster between cases, and we’re left frustrated and exhausted. That’s not a good place to be. We still have to do our job right – and pushing us to go faster increases the chance that we won’t.

By using your time wisely and being prepared for your cases, you are giving yourself the time that you need to properly care for your patients. It’s definitely not easy and it’s very tiring. Sometimes you feel like your brain is on overload from everything that you’re keeping up with. But, at the end of the day, being prepared for your cases has a direct effect on your patient care, on their case, and on how smoothly your day goes.

All of these things are essential for working in the O.R.

I believe that all 5 traits are fundamental to success each day in the O.R., and for longevity in this specialty. Working in the O.R. is unique – it’s very hard at times, but it’s also very rewarding. But for the person who has, or develops these traits, it’s perfect place to be.

What does your list look like?

Until next time,

Melanie

P.S. If you missed Part One, you can read it here!

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