Differentiation should include a definition of sterile and nonsterile, as well as the following distinction:
- Sterile members of the surgical team are the surgeon, surgeon assistant, scrub nurse, and surgical technologist.
- Nonsterile members of the surgical team are the anesthesiologist, circulating nurse, vendors, and operation room (OR) aides.
Process/Skill Questions:
- Why are the circulating nurse and OR aides not required to meet the requirements of sterility in the operating room?
- Why is the anesthesiologist not included as a sterile member of the surgical team?