During Your Procedure

What will I see and experience when I go into the Operating Room?

Even though most patients receive medication to help them relax in the pre-operative area, entering the operating room can be an anxious experience for some patients. Rest assured that you will be treated respectfully and watched carefully by the AAPA anesthesiologists and CRNAs during your entire procedure. Below are some additional notes to answer your questions about the operating room environment:

• You will notice that the room temperature is quite cool. The OR nurses will provide you with some warm blankets.
• There are many different pieces of equipment in the operating room including specialized overhead lights, the anesthesia machine, monitors, several carts that are used to store medications and supplies, and other equipment needed for your specific type of procedure. If you are curious about the function or purpose of any item-just ask! 
• There are usually at least 5-7 people present during an operation. These include the scrub nurse/tech, surgeon, CRNA, circulating nurse, and anesthesiologist. Others are present as needed to assist with your procedure or to provide special monitoring during your procedure.
• The operating room table is narrow, so much care will be taken to transfer you safely and to fasten straps similar to seat belts to prevent you from falling.
• Special care will be taken to pad and secure your arms, legs, and head so skin/nerve injury does not occur. Your anesthesiologist and CRNA are experts at keeping you safe!