What are the main functions of a surgical scrub nurse?

The main functions of a surgical scrub nurse revolve around maintaining a sterile environment during surgical procedures and providing assistance to the surgeon and surgical team. This role is crucial in ensuring that the surgical field remains free from contamination, which helps prevent infections and complications during and after surgery.

The scrub nurse is responsible for preparing the sterile field, passing instruments to the surgeon, and anticipating the needs of the surgical team throughout the procedure. This includes managing supplies, instruments, and suture materials, all while ensuring that correct sterile techniques are applied. The scrub nurse plays a pivotal role in supporting the team and facilitating a smooth and efficient surgical process, focusing on the technical and procedural details within the operating room.

In contrast, administering anesthesia, sedating patients, and supervising recovery are functions typically performed by anesthesia providers and recovery staff. These roles are distinct from those of a scrub nurse and involve different levels of training and specialization.