I have over five years of experience working in a perioperative setting, where I was responsible for coordinating between surgical teams, managing patient flow, and ensuring all necessary equipment and supplies were prepared for surgeries. My role required a deep understanding of surgical procedures and the ability to anticipate the needs of the surgical team to maintain efficiency and safety in the operating room.

In a fast-paced surgical environment, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact on patient care. I use a combination of time management skills and communication with the surgical team to assess which tasks need immediate attention. For example, ensuring the availability of critical instruments for an ongoing surgery takes precedence over administrative duties, which can be scheduled during less critical periods.

Once, during a critical surgery, there was an unexpected shortage of a specific surgical instrument. I quickly coordinated with the supply team to locate a replacement and communicated the delay to the surgical team, suggesting alternative instruments in the meantime. My calm and proactive approach helped minimize the disruption and ensured the surgery could proceed with minimal delay.

I ensure effective communication by maintaining clear and concise channels of communication, such as regular briefings and the use of standardized protocols for information sharing. I also make it a point to confirm understanding among all parties involved, which helps in preventing misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is aligned with the surgical plan and any changes that may arise.

To manage stress in high-pressure situations, I focus on staying organized and maintaining a clear head. I practice deep breathing techniques to stay calm and prioritize tasks to tackle them one at a time. Additionally, I find that preparing as much as possible in advance and having contingency plans in place helps reduce stress when unexpected situations arise.