Perioperative Series: OR Workflow

Course overview

OR workflow is designed to synthesize multiple synchronous processes involving the patient, surgeon, anesthesiology providers, nurses, scrub personnel, and assistants to ensure surgeries are performed in a safe and efficient manner. Although routine workflow in the OR is repetitive and structured, when the unexpected occurs, the team must respond and adapt quickly through good communication and coordination. This requires all members of the team to have the proper knowledge and skill to anticipate, plan, prepare, and execute steps for managing complex situations that often involve life-threatening emergencies. This course is intended to provide nurses and STs with knowledge of OR Workflow, including the roles and the responsibilities of each member of the OR team.