Learning Nurse Logo

CM: Perioperative Nursing CM-03: Circulating Role
No. Competency Item NAC DEV COM DTE EXC
  Demonstrate knowledge and ability to perform circulating role in the preparation of the operating room theatre:          
CM-03-01
  • prepare the room supplies and equipment for the specific operative procedure (includes special equipment, positioning devices, sutures, case cart, warming supplies, IV solutions, physician cards)
  • CM-03-02
  • notify all personnel who may be required for case i.e., pathologist, technicians
  • CM-03-03
  • ensure x-rays and diagnostic tests are available if required.
  •   Demonstrate ability to prepare client for the surgical procedure:          
    CM-03-04
  • assess client using pre-operative checklist
  • CM-03-05
  • transport client to the operating room
  • CM-03-06
  • receive client into the operating room and carry out appropriate checks
  • CM-03-07
  • position client safely on the operating room table
  • CM-03-08
  • apply safety and positioning devices as required
  • CM-03-09
  • reassure client and explain procedures
  • CM-03-10
  • apply monitor and equipment as required, i.e., ECG, BP, Pulse Oximetry, anesthetic equipment
  • CM-03-11
  • attach client to necessary equipment, i.e., tourniquet, drainage systems
  • CM-03-12
  • insert urinary catheter and set up drainage
  • CM-03-13
  • prepare irrigation solutions as necessary
  • CM-03-14
  • prepare operative site, according to specific surgery guidelines
  • CM-03-15
  • assist with draping and connection to suction, power tools, etc.
  •   Demonstrate ability to provide assistance during the operative procedure:          
    CM-03-16
  • prepare medication for administration to the client
  • CM-03-17
  • process all specimens by labeling and handling appropriately
  • CM-03-18
  • inspect all sterile items for contamination prior to opening
  • CM-03-19
  • inspect and open sterile supplies and hand to scrub personnel
  • CM-03-20
  • provide appropriate instruments and supplies as needed
  • CM-03-21
  • prepare supplies for sterilization
  • CM-03-22
  • document client care, specimens, sponge counts, medications used to operative site
  • CM-03-23
  • document blood loss, fluid output, and intake
  • CM-03-24
  • document any and all unusual incidents with appropriate follow up action
  • CM-03-25
  • monitor vital signs as appropriate
  • CM-03-26
  • ensure, along with a second individual, that all pre-op and closure counts are correct
  • CM-03-27
  • monitor sterile technique and maintain the same throughout the case
  • CM-03-28
  • provide continuous, astute observation of the surgical team throughout the operative phase while meeting their needs with minimal time delays
  • CM-03-29
  • monitor and evaluate the physical well-being of the client to prevent potential impairment or injury.
  •   Demonstrate ability to provide and assist with procedures and devices required to complete client care following the surgical procedure:          
    CM-03-30
  • observe and provide appropriate response to complications and unexpected events during the surgical procedure i.e., cardiac arrest, hypothermia
  • CM-03-31
  • assist in the physical client transfer and post-operative positioning
  • CM-03-32
  • affix and observe the dressing post-operatively ensuring that all drains are properly connected and secured
  • CM-03-33
  • complete operative record and have scrub personnel review.
  •   Demonstrate ability to provide support and assistance to ensure safety and efficiency:          
    CM-03-34
  • advocate for client
  • CM-03-35
  • ensure co-ordination of days list of surgical procedures i.e., sending for patient, surgeons availability, staffing, ensuring necessary equipment available
  • CM-03-36
  • apply standard precautions
  • CM-03-37
  • clean theatre between cases
  • CM-03-38
  • carry out appropriate surgical scrub procedures
  • CM-03-39
  • carry out safety checks, such as client identification and allergies
  • CM-03-40
  • check case cart and supplies for completeness
  • CM-03-41
  • ensure all equipment and instrumentation is in good repair and available
  • CM-03-42
  • trouble shoot equipment that malfunctions and seek assistance
  • CM-03-43
  • facilitates use of accessory surgical equipment
  • CM-03-44
  • recognizes an emergent situation and sends for assistance as required.
  • Previous page Click here to return to Table of Contents Click here to go to next page