Examining Surgical Team Member Adaptation to Uncertainty Using the Operating Room Black Box

Results from this observational study using the Operating Room Black Box demonstrated how surgical team members adapt their teamwork skills during instances of uncertainty, specifically when dealing with intraoperative adverse events (IAEs). Nurses exhibited increased backup behavior skills during IAEs, while surgeons and medical trainees expressed more psychological safety skills. However, all roles exhibited fewer situation assessment skills during IAEs. These findings highlight the unique contributions of each team member and emphasize the importance of tailored interventions to strengthen interprofessional teamwork in surgical settings.