What is one of the primary roles of the nursing staff during the intraoperative phase?

During the intraoperative phase, the nursing staff plays a crucial role in providing emotional support to patients as they undergo anesthesia and the surgical procedure. This support is vital as patients often experience anxiety and fear about the surgery and the effects of anesthesia. The presence of the nursing staff helps to alleviate some of this anxiety, contributing to the overall well-being of the patient during a vulnerable time.

By offering reassurance and addressing any concerns the patient may have, nurses fulfill an essential part of the intraoperative care team. This emotional support can also enhance the patient's trust in the healthcare team, creating a more comfortable environment that can positively affect surgical outcomes.

In contrast, administering preoperative medication and conducting preoperative assessments are tasks that take place primarily before the patient enters the operating room. Postoperative monitoring is a critical role as well but occurs after the surgical procedure has been completed. Therefore, the role of providing emotional support during anesthesia is specifically aligned with the intraoperative phase of care.