How can perioperative nurses advocate for their patients?

Perioperative nurses play a crucial role in advocating for their patients by voicing concerns about patient stability during surgery. This advocacy is fundamental to ensuring patient safety and quality of care. Monitoring the patient's vital signs, recognizing any changes that may indicate instability, and promptly communicating these concerns to the surgical team is part of the nurse's responsibility. Through vigilant assessment and effective communication, the perioperative nurse ensures that the patient's condition is prioritized, and necessary interventions can be implemented swiftly to maintain patient safety.

In contrast, while explaining surgical procedures to family members can provide valuable support, it does not directly impact patient care during the surgical process. Maintaining a sterile environment is essential for preventing infections but does not represent advocacy for the patient's immediate safety or wellbeing. Managing the surgical schedule is important for efficiency in the operating room, but it is again not an act of direct patient advocacy. Hence, voicing concerns during surgery is the most direct way for perioperative nurses to champion their patients' needs and promote optimal outcomes.