Operating theatres A successful pre-brief should not only


cover the patient’s condition, relevant surgical concerns and equipment, but also the preparation of the operating theatre team for the day’s work. Before starting the day, it is important to evaluate the expectations and ensure they are reasonable and achievable. If there are any doubts about the workload, effective communication is important, so that adjustments can be made can make a significant difference. This little change can minimise the stress and anxiety that is often present in operating theatres. Leong et al’s study shows that the pressure


of efficiency in operating theatres can be reduced by setting realistic goals and plans for the day of work.6


She speaks about positivity


and improvements of efficiency in ‘running an ideal operating list’, but the wellbeing of the operating theatre team is not explored. The study highlights the benefits of pre-briefing and debriefing as universal improvements in operating theatres’ efficiency. However, the emotional aspect of work is missed. It is essential to work collaboratively as a team, communicate effectively, delegate tasks, and provide support when necessary to accomplish our objectives. In light of the COVID pandemic, waiting lists


have grown longer, contributing to a lack of efficiency. At the same time, staffing levels – which also contribute to the efficiency of operating theatres – appear to be reduced. A recent report by the Royal College of Surgeons painted a stark picture of staff working long hours in stressful environments. The report highlighted the results of the 2023 UK Surgical Workforce Census which revealed the extreme pressures currently being faced in theatres – almost two-thirds (61%) of respondents cited burnout and stress, due to excessive workloads, as the main challenge in surgery.7 NHS waiting lists have decreased because of the incredible efforts made by operating


By acknowledging and addressing the emotional aspects of the job, operating theatre team members can create a healthier and more supportive work environment for everyone involved. So, would starting with a positive pre-brief contribute to a positive experience?


theatre teams, including surgeons, theatre staff, pre-assessment staff, and ward staff who have all worked extra hours for patients.8 Therefore, looking at the emotional aspect of the operating theatre’s team working day, pre-briefing would be beneficial to all. Dealing with trauma experienced by surgical medical staff is a challenge, so why don’t we talk about the emotional impact of our work daily? Talking about the emotional aspect of work is often a


taboo, and it is still considered unprofessional and weak to openly express one’s feelings. In addition, there is very little discussion about how operating theatre teams are taken away from their families for overtime or staying late. It is not uncommon for surgeons, nurses, and assisting staff to feel pressured and guilty when they need to decline certain requests or tasks. This can be due to the expectations placed on them, which can create a challenging situation. Refusal or acceptance of the task puts pressure on the wellbeing of operating theatre team members and what follows is tiredness, stress, anxiety, burnout and depression.9 Jarzembowski describes how burnout


symptoms are missed by staff due to responsibility and accountability to professional duties. With this pressure, staff face the risk of burnout, and this can also impact wellbeing and mental health. Specific working environments, such as operating theatres, can influence mental health due to exposure to patient death, trauma, long working hours and occupational professional hazards. This hazard can lead to other professional risks such as infection and injury due to burnout.10


So, why don’t we talk 24 www.clinicalservicesjournal.com I July 2024


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