What factors affect surgical team performance?

This study, based on detailed observation of 10 complex surgical cases at an academic medical center hospital supplemented by interviews of surgeons, anesthesiologists, RNs, techs, and ancillary support personnel, took a look at the team dynamics in the operating room.  Role behaviors were perceived differently by different team members.  The authors were surprised by the degree to which the OR team environment can be characterized as dynamic, requiring team members to be able to make on-the-spot adaptations. 

Source: Leach, L.S., Myrtle, R.C., and, Weaver, F.A.  Surgical teams: role perspectives and role dynamics in the operating room.  Health Services Management Research;24:81-90, 2011.  Click here for more on this article: http://hsmr.rsmjournals.com/content/24/2/81.abstract  Posted by AHA Resource Center, (312) 422-2050, rc@aha.org