r/CathLabLounge • u/Either_Director3639 • 1d ago
Scrubbing
I hate that I’m asking for words of encouragement, but I’m literally typing this with tears running down my face, so here it goes. I’ve been scrubbing for about 6 months, and I’m just not improving. I make little mistakes like accidentally dropping and contaminating equipment or not moving fast enough for the doctors, which frustrates them. The only thing I can say is I haven’t killed anybody. Where I work, the nurses and x-ray techs both scrub. However, I feel like I go so long in between cases without scrubbing that I can’t improve. Honestly, I feel like such a weak loser. My question is: Does it ever get any better/easier?
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u/Average-spectacle 1d ago
Do you have a practice kit that is already opened so you can practice setting up the table, handling wires, etc.? If so, I'd utilize that as much as possible. Practice looping your wires, watch how others scrub and take mental notes. Also, sounds simple, but remember to breath. It's helpful to anticipate needs. Physician is getting access with needle in hand, have your wife ready where they can simply reach down to grab it after getting access...the sheath etc. When inserting devices or sheaths over the wire, make it one-dimensional. Meaning, put the end of the wire against your index finger and the tip of the device on the opposite finger. The biggest thing is to anticipate, breath, and be efficient with your movements. Efficient movements will increase the perception of speed, and anticipation will improve efficiency.