“You know how to scrub, right?” The short story is no, I did not yet know how to scrub.
As a premedical student, the operating room is different from anywhere else I have been. Just as with any new environment—whether it’s a friend’s home, a workplace, or a place of worship—there are customs to learn. These unspoken rules become second nature to those accustomed to the surroundings. As a newcomer, it’s essential to inquire and familiarize oneself with these customs to navigate seamlessly. The operating room is no different.
The first operating room I had the opportunity to be in was at an outpatient surgery center. I was shadowing an orthopedic hand surgeon. However, before I even set foot in the surgery center, there were numerous administrative hurdles to clear. It’s a lesson all premedical students should heed: the process of shadowing a physician, whether in clinic or surgery, often involves bureaucratic hoops to jump through. It’s crucial to reach out not only to the physician but also to the administrative staff well in advance. This ensures all necessary paperwork, background checks, and vaccinations are in order, prioritizing patient privacy and safety. In my experience, it has been much easier to shadow at outpatient surgery centers and private practices than it has been to shadow in the hospital or university setting. Hospitals and universities are often teeming with eager medical students, residents, and fellows. As I have found, this means it can be difficult to find room for a premedical student.
Upon my arrival at the surgery center, I made a concerted effort to introduce myself to as many people as I could, letting them know who I was, why I was there, and of course, that it was my first time. This proactive approach proved far superior to lingering in the background awkwardly. Conversations with the front desk staff, anesthesiology assistants, and nurses provided valuable insights into the center’s operations. When the surgeon instructed me to scrub in, one of the first nurses that I had met kindly stayed behind to guide me through the process.
Observing the surgery was nothing short of mesmerizing. From the first 15-blade incision, I was captivated. The adept maneuvers through hand anatomy, coupled with meticulous care, ensured that I had a clear view of every detail. I knew what type of surgeries were planned for that day, so I armed myself with knowledge by researching the conditions being treated and surgical techniques ahead of time. This allowed me to pose informed questions, enriching my experience and demonstrating my dedication to learning.
I am immensely grateful to the first surgeon who welcomed me into their operating room, as well as those who have since allowed me to accompany them. Each surgery presents its own unique challenges, and investing time and effort into shadowing experiences yields rich rewards. Whether it’s pre-reading on surgical techniques or building rapport with the OR staff, being engaged and excited enriches the shadowing experience and ensures that you will get as much out of the opportunity as possible. Be studious, be gracious, be polite, but above all, be curious.
Natalie Enyedi is a premedical student.
