Can I Scrub Into Surgery if One Nurse Says Yes?

Dear Nurse J,

I really want to scrub into an operation during placement. My university preceptor said students are not allowed, but the nurse I’m working with said it would probably be fine. Can I do it anyway?

— Scrub Curious

Nurse J says…

No.

If your university or placement rules say you are not permitted, that answer overrides the casual “it should be okay” from someone on shift.

Healthcare runs on:

• policies

• scope of practice

• supervision requirements

• accountability

Not:

“Eh, should be fine.”

The issue is not whether you’re enthusiastic or capable. The issue is:

• insurance

• infection control

• liability

• placement agreements.

And if something goes wrong, the nurse who casually said “go for it” will not be the one explaining it to your university.

Being eager is good…. ignoring formal boundaries is not.

There will be plenty of opportunities to learn in theatres safely and appropriately throughout your career.

— Nurse J