What is a circulator?

Circulators are healthcare professionals, often registered nurses, who work in operating rooms to manage the overall environment and ensure everything runs smoothly during surgical procedures. Their primary role is to act as a liaison between the surgical team and other hospital staff, handle documentation, and ensure the operating room is properly equipped and maintained. Circulators do not scrub in or directly assist with surgery but are essential for patient safety and effective workflow. They also help prepare the patient for surgery and monitor their condition throughout the procedure.