Operating Room 101

The following list is things I've learned in the OR that I wish I would've known before...
This environment is scary as hell. With patients safety and well-being are at stake people take their jobs very seriously. As a student it is intimidating to walk into a room where you have a thousand things to remember, and still learn from the surgery. I wish I would have had someone who could have prepared me for what was to come. I gathered a few helpful hints.

1) ALWAYS be kind to scrub nurses- they can make your student life miserable.
2) introduce yourself to everyone you see- throw your glove size on the end for fun... for example; "Hello! I am _____ a student working with ____ I wear a size 7 1/2 indicator 7 biogel." If there is a white board write your name and size on that too.
3) NEVER - I mean NEVER touch anything that looks remotely sterile- lights, cords, handles... if you are not sure ask.
4) Do not stand in a place where people are gathering- do not stand under vents, do not stand directly under the light.
5) Do not touch anything from your nipple to your waist- face, legs, back, another person...
6) Let the scrub nurse know if you think you contaminated something- even if you are not sure. gloves are much cheaper than an infection.
7) If you are screamed at, accept their comments graciously.... let them know you appreciate their help.
8) If you feel ill, look away and take deep breaths... if you feel really ill excuse yourself and sit down on the floor in a safe location. (make sure to sit because if you faint and fall you may be the next patient in the OR)
9) Speak softly when patients are coming out of anesthesia.
10) Say your please, thank you, doctor, sir etc.
11) Be eager to learn, but know when to hold your questions.