a. Assist the surgeons in donning their sterile gowns.

b. Assist in moving the back table, the ring stand, and the Mayo stand into position (refer to paragraph 3-25). At this point, the sterile field has been established and the circulator must not enter this sterile field.

c. Connect the suction machine and adjust the light. Connect and adjust the portable light if it is to be used for additional illumination of the operative site.

d. Place the kick buckets in positions convenient for their use, one on each side of the operating table.

e. Connect the electrosurgical electrode cord or any other electrical equipment to be used. Place foot pedals within easy reach of the surgeon’s foot if they are required.

f. Place the straight stools (footstools) or other types of stools into position if they are to be used.

g. During all these procedures the circulator must be aware of and practice aseptic technique. The circulator must be alert for any breaks in aseptic technique by any member of the operating team and take appropriate action if a break occurs.