A scrub nurse is a specialized perioperative nurse who operates directly within the sterile field of the operation theatre. They manage surgical instruments, maintain a sterile environment, and anticipate the surgeon’s needs to ensure the procedure is safe, efficient, and successful. [1, 2]Their core responsibilities are broken down into three critical phases:Pre-operative (Before Surgery)
- Sterile Setup: Scrubs and gowns up, then meticulously organizes the sterile field, instrument tables, and trays.
- Equipment Prep: Checks, counts, and prepares all surgical instruments, equipment, and consumables (swabs, needles, sponges) required for the specific procedure.
- Patient Verification: Assists the team in verifying patient identity, surgical site, and planned procedure. [1, 2, 3]
Intra-operative (During Surgery)
- Instrument Passing: Hands required surgical instruments, sponges, and sutures to the surgeon proactively and swiftly, anticipating the next steps of the operation.
- Infection Control: Enforces strict aseptic techniques and monitors the sterile field to prevent cross-contamination.
- Safety Counts: Performs rigorous, methodical counts of all sponges, sharps, and instruments with the circulating nurse before, during, and at the closure of the surgery to prevent retained surgical items.
- Specimen Management: Safely handles, labels, and preserves any tissue or fluid samples removed for laboratory analysis. [1, 2, 3]
Post-operative (After Surgery)
- Wound Management: Assists the surgical team with applying dressings, bandages, and drains.
- Equipment Clearance: Accounts for all instruments, removes remaining tools from the sterile field, and disposes of biohazardous waste safely.
- Patient Transfer: Helps clean the patient, prepares them for transport, and transfers them to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or recovery room. [1, 2, 3, 4]
For more information on perioperative pathways and career details, explore the official Health Careers Theatre Nurse Guide.
Pay: ₹14,000.00 - ₹24,000.00 per month
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Food provided
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Provident Fund
Work Location: In person
