Verify safe environment for the patient.

Verification should include

• checking electrical equipment
• checking operating room (OR) equipment (e.g., safety straps/positioning devices)
• ensuring the patient is grounded
• checking sterility indicators
• monitoring atmospheric conditions and other factors related to the immediate environment
• adjusting as necessary.

Process/Skill Questions:

• What principles of electricity should a surgical technologist understand and be able to apply?
• How is electrical equipment checked prior to surgery? How is sterility checked?
• What atmospheric conditions are appropriate for an operating room during surgery? How can they be achieved and maintained throughout the perioperative process?