#Circulating #Nurse for #Laparoscopic #Adrenalectomy #Surgery
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to remove one or both adrenal glands. The adrenal glands, located above each kidney, produce hormones such as cortisol, adrenaline, and aldosterone. This surgery is typically indicated for conditions such as adrenal tumors, pheochromocytoma, Cushing’s syndrome, aldosteronism, or other adrenal pathologies.
~Preparation:
The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
Positioning depends on the adrenal gland being removed: for a unilateral procedure, the patient is usually placed in a lateral decubitus position with the affected side upward.
~Incision
Several small incisions (typically 3–4) are made in the abdomen.A trocar is inserted into each incision to provide access for a laparoscope and surgical instruments.A laparoscope provides high-definition visuals of the abdominal cavity on a monitor.
~Dissection:
The adrenal gland is carefully dissected from surrounding tissues, with meticulous attention to preserving adjacent structures such as the kidney, blood vessels, IVC,and surrounding organs.The adrenal vein is identified and clipped or cauterized to minimize bleeding.
The adrenal gland is placed in a retrieval bag and extracted through one of the trocar sites.
~Closure:
After ensuring hemostasis, the trocars are removed, and the incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
As a circulating nurse in laparoscopic adrenalectomy surgery, my role involves managing the operating room (OR) environment, ensuring all necessary equipment and instruments are available and functional, and providing continuous support to the surgical team.
Preoperative Phase
-Verify that the OR is set up according to the specific needs of a laparoscopic adrenalectomy.
-Ensure proper functioning of equipment such as the laparoscopic tower, insufflator, and electrosurgical unit & availability of instruments like laparoscopic graspers, scissors, trocars, and adrenal-specific retractors.
Coordination & Communication
-Facilitating seamless communication among the surgical team members, anesthesiologists, and other staff. Anticipating the needs of the sterile field and quickly responding to requests to maintain the efficiency and safety of the operation.
Patient Safety:
-Review the patient’s consent, medical history, and preoperative checklist.(#WHO #check #list)
-Assist in positioning the patient, ensuring proper alignment and padding to prevent pressure injuries.
-Confirm the use of sequential compression devices (SCDs) or other prophylactic measures to prevent DVT.
-Conduct a final counts.
I had the privilege of serving as the circulating nurse for a successful laparoscopic surgery. It was a fulfilling experience to support the surgical team and ensure the smooth coordination of the procedure, contributing to the patient's positive outcome.
#teamwork #surgicalnurse #linkedin #healthcareprofessional
