Team training can improve operating room performance

Background This study was conducted to determine if team training using a federally sponsored team training program improves operating room (OR) performance and culture. Methods The TeamSTEPPS program, a team training program designed and tested for health care applications, was provided to the OR staff. The training occurred over 2 months to all members of the OR team, including scrub technicians, nurses, certified registered nurse anesthetists, anesthesiologists, surgeons, and all anesthesiology and surgical resident staff. Results After 9 months, there was a significant improvement in the OR staff team work (score 53.2 to 62.7; P P P P P P P P P P P P Conclusion These data confirm that team training improves OR performance, but continued team training is required to provide sustained improved OR culture.