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Education Spotlight
Insights, stories, and surgical skill-building from real professionals.
Mastering Operating Room Etiquette: A Guide for Newcomers
Operating rooms have their own unique culture and set of expectations, with etiquette that every team member should know, especially newcomers. Respecting this environment isn’t just about following protocols—it’s about contributing to a safe and efficient space for everyone. First, recognize the roles of the circulating nurse and surgical tech. These are the people who keep the OR running smoothly. Introduce yourself, communicate your needs, and respect their expertise. A sm
Know Your Blades — and Handle Them with Care
None of these blades are correct 😅 Just look and laugh Every blade in the OR has a purpose — and knowing which is which isn’t just about passing instruments; it’s about understanding why each one is used and when. • #10 : The workhorse. This is the most frequently used blade and usually the one used to make the first incision in an open case. • #11 : Designed for precision punctures. I’ve seen this one used often in endoscopic procedures. • #12 : Rarely used in my own exper
Tatyana L., CST, CCS
Mar 51 min read
AV Fistula Setup: The Vascular Case Everyone Should Know
If you’ve been around here a while, you know I love a good vascular case — even the smaller ones like an AV fistula setup. It might not be as intense as a big bypass or endovascular repair, but arteriovenous fistulas are crucial procedures for dialysis access, and they show up often in both general and vascular specialties. That means whether you’re deep into vascular or just rotating through general surgery, knowing how to set one up is a valuable skill. Here’s what you’
Tatyana L., CST, CCS
Sep 4, 20252 min read
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