Three Factors That Positively Shape Open Communication Within the Operating Room

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to formulate three components that positively shape communication among operating room team members. Creating open communication requires surgical teams to reevaluate the way they visualize teamwork and work with the same mindset as one another. Leaders in the operating room need to strive to have a transformational type of leadership that welcomes other team member’s opinions and inputs throughout the operation. Additionally, all surgical team members need to possess the courage to speak up during unsafe situations such as a break in sterile technique or if a patient is at any sort of risk caused by another team member. When an operating room has established a common definition for teamwork, provided quality leadership, and created an environment for all members to have the courage to speak up against unsafe situations, communication is more open and the surgical teams can operate more effectively.