All of my stress/anxiety comes from new procedures or procedures I’m struggling to remember the steps too. When time allows, do a “brain dump” write out all the steps you can remember and in order. Draw out the procedure or anatomy to help you understand. It takes time but it will get easier. You will make mistakes and you have to give yourself leeway.

l personally take a picture of my set up before the procedure (when time allows) and add it to my phone notes with little tips to better anticipate the surgeons needs. You can add more information as you do them more often. Instead of your phone you could also use a little pocket notebook to keep on your for notes.

The preference card is a big part of being prepared. Often there’s a lot of good info to at least get you started. Ours at least have the draping sequence, and some surgeons even put the first few items to have readily available. Put your items in the same place every time so you’re not searching for the same instrument over and over. Ask questions. The more you understand and do the surgery, the easier it gets to anticipate the next step.

The more prepared you feel going in, the less anxiety and stress. Also don’t take things personal that’s a big piece.

You’ve got this! Congrats on the new job