After an operation is completed, the circulator assists the other team members in moving the patient from the operating table to the litter.

He also assists the scrub in preparing the room for the next case. Cleaning should be performed as rapidly as possible (about 15 minutes is allowed) to prevent delay in starting the next scheduled surgical procedure. Specific tasks are given below.

a. Assist the surgeon in applying the adhesive strips to the dressing.

b. While the surgeon holds the dressing in place, remove the drapes from the patient and place it in the appropriate hamper. Ensure that all towel clamps have been removed from the drapes.

c. Disconnect the electrosurgical grounding pad from the patient.

d. Bring the litter into the room and assist in transferring the patient from the table to the litter.

At least four team members are required to move the patient to the litter. The anesthetist moves the patient’s head, a team member moves the feet, you (the circulator) get on one side of the table, and the surgeon gets on the other side. On signal, the patient is gently lifted onto the litter. If the patient is receiving an intravenous infusion, see that an I.V. pole is attached on the litter. Then, you are to secure the strap of the litter over the patient (according to local policy) for safety during transport.

NOTE: A bed from the ward may be used to transport the patient since this reduces the number of times the patient must be lifted. If a bed is used, bed rails are to be put into position.

e. Assist the anesthetist, as requested.

f. After the scrub has suctioned some saline through the tubing, disconnect the tubing from the suction machine.

g. When you return from transporting the patient to the Recovery Room, assist the scrub in preparing the room for the next patient. Wet vacuum the floor and clean all furniture as prescribed by local policy. Rearrange the furniture and replenish supplies.

h. Place a clean sheet and lift sheet on the operating table and put a towel across the head of the table (this is called “dressing” the table).

i. Clean any special equipment that was used and return it to the proper storage place unless it is needed for the next case. Report to the operating room supervisor or the NCOIC any defective equipment and remove it from the room.

Complete all other assignments related to the case as directed by local policy; this includes taking tissue specimens to the appropriate place.