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Distractions in the Operating Room

  • Patient Safety in Anesthesia (SJ Brull, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The goal of this review is to investigate current research in the area of operating room (OR) distractions, in particular, from the perspective of the anesthesia provider. Additionally, the concept of the “sterile cockpit” is discussed as well as the science of attention span in humans.

Recent Findings

Etiology of distractions may be classified as patient care related, due to technology, noise, and alarms, from interpersonal dynamics or personally driven. Studies show that at least 5% of human factor errors in the OR are due to distractions. Lack of attention has been shown to contribute disproportionately to poor outcomes due to inadequate respiratory monitoring.

Summary

OR distractions continue to be problematic for the anesthesia providers and patients alike. Implementation of aviation-style distraction mitigation strategies has been proposed though there is limited research to support their efficacy. Additional research in this field is necessary to determine the etiology of patient harm and to guide development of procedures and protocols to reduce OR distractions.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Rd, Jacksonville, FL, USA

    Kevin T. Riutort

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Riutort, K.T. Distractions in the Operating Room. Curr Anesthesiol Rep 10, 456–462 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40140-020-00409-2

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