If a patient verbally expresses fear about undergoing surgery, who should the surgical technologist inform?

When a patient expresses fear about undergoing surgery, the surgical technologist should inform the circulating nurse. The circulating nurse is responsible for ensuring patient safety and communication within the operating room environment. They serve as a liaison between the surgical team and the patient, and they can address the patient's emotional needs as well as any concerns they may have.

The circulating nurse is often positioned outside the sterile field and is in direct contact with the patient prior to surgery. They have the ability to take the patient's concerns seriously and can facilitate communication with the entire surgical team, which may include the surgeon and anesthesiologist. This ensures that the patient's fears are acknowledged and that appropriate measures can be taken to help alleviate those concerns, such as providing additional information or reassurance.

Other options, while relevant in their own rights, may not be the best immediate channel for addressing the patient's emotional state. The surgeon's focus is primarily on the medical aspects of the procedure, while the anesthesiologist is concerned with the patient's anesthesia and physiological stability. The surgical assistant may have limited interaction with the patient and is generally involved with technical assistance rather than patient advocacy. Thus, the circulating nurse is best positioned to effectively address the situation.