a. As the anesthetist brings the patient into the room, assist with patient positioning as necessary.

(1) Loosen the covers around the patient’s litter while the patient is outside the room. Cover the patient’s head to prevent the possibility of infection from hair or dandruff from being scattered into the room. Help the anesthetist to bring the patient into the room, and do not bump into sterile tables or other items.

(2) Check to be sure the operating table is in the appropriate position and is locked. Check to make sure the litter is in appropriate place, side rail away from the table is up and locked into place and that the litter wheels are locked. Then move to the far side of the operating table to assist the anesthetist in moving the patient onto the table.

(3) The anesthetist helps to move the patient from the litter to the table. If the patient is unable to help move himself, you are to obtain additional help.

(4) Position the leg strap two inches above the patient’s knee and fasten it. Check the strap to be sure it will not obstruct the patient’s circulation. You should be able to pass your hand between the strap and the patient’s thighs. Loosen the strap if it is fastened too tightly.

(5) Place the patient’s arms at his sides and secure them in the lift sheet, or secured upon arm boards.

(6) Once the patient is safe and secured, remove the litter from the room.

(7) Once the anesthetist begins his work with the patient, you are to be available only to the anesthetist until the patient is anesthetized. During the induction stage of anesthesia, stay beside the patient and assist the anesthetist if necessary.

During the induction of anesthesia, do not touch the patient. Also, be as quiet as possible. Hearing is one of the last senses to dissipate during induction. Noise is accentuated for the patient during this time and even minor noise will increase his apprehension.

b. Assist in placing the patient in the position for surgery after the anesthetist indicates this is to be done.

c. Arrange the sheet covering the patient so that the operative area is exposed. Do not expose the patient more than is necessary. Assist the surgeon with the skin preparation, if necessary. Position a kick bucket so that it is convenient for the surgeon when he is discarding sponges and other material.

NOTE: The surgeon may request the circulator to perform the preoperative skin preparation.