Twelve tips for medical students to maximise learning in theatre

Introduction into the clinical environment can be a daunting experience for medical students, especially in the operating theatre. Prior knowledge of how to prepare for theatre and cope with surgical placements is advantageous, as learning opportunities can be maximised from the start.

This article provides medical students with 12 tips devised to help make the most out of their initial theatre placements.

Tips were formulated based on the experiences of three senior medical students and a review of the literature.

The 12 tips are (1) Know the patient and procedure, (2) Be familiar with your surgical department, (3) Familiarise yourself with different surgical attire, (4) Revise your clinical skills, (5) Be time-efficient, (6) Learn how to work in a sterile environment, (7) Avoiding syncope, (8) Impress the operating surgeon, (9) Be aware of the professional, ethical, and legal issues in surgery, (10) Use mentors to enhance your learning, (11) Embrace extra-curricular activities to enhance your insight into surgery and (12) Be acquainted with relevant support systems.

These 12 tips provide guidance and opportunities to maximise learning for new clinical-phase medical students being introduced to the operating theatre for the first time.