Critical reflection on the role of theater nurses in a multidisciplinary team for perioperative care in China

Abstract

Abstract Objective The aim of this article is to reflect on the role of theater nurses in a multidisciplinary team, understand the factors that have influenced theater nurses’ practice, and improve the authors’ clinical practice ultimately. Methods The author used Smyth’s model to guide the process of reflection on the practice issue. Critical reflection, critical emancipatory theory, reflexivity, and critical social theory were used to help the author analyze the factors that have affected theater nurses’ practice in the organization. Results There are gaps between the espoused and enacted theories. A theater nurse’s practice is determined by multiple factors, such as political, structural, social, historical, cultural issues, and so on. The hierarchy of the health context could hinder possible changes in theater nurses’ practice. To better understand our practice and implement transformation, we should shape a supportive environment, bear in mind the practice motto of “patient-centered” care, and improve our knowledge and reflection skills. Conclusions Reflection plays a significant role in the advancing of practice among theater nurses and needs to be combined with clinical practice. To provide the best service of care to perioperative patients, a theater nurse should have an insightful understanding of the factors that have influenced her/his behaviors historically, socially, and culturally. By improving their critical reflection skills, practitioners could gain knowledge from experience.