Enhancing Surgical Performance: A Primer in Non-Technical Skills explains why non-technical skills are vital for safe and effective performance in the operating theatre. The book provides a full account, with supporting empirical evidence, of the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) system and behavioural rating framework, which helps identify the key elements involved in successful operative surgery.
The editors spent the last twelve years as part of the team developing and testing the NOTSS system and delivering presentations and workshops across the world. Readers will benefit by having, in one accessible handbook, a description of the NOTSS system and how it can be used for training, assessment, self-reflection and event analysis.
The book also examines human error, performance limitations, and global safety initiatives in surgery. Because it encourages surgeons to reflect on their own performance and behaviour, it is suitable for surgeons in all specialties and at all levels.
"Describes very well the process of thought, judgement, analysis and evaluation of risk by surgeons. It emphasises the role of the surgeon as a leader and setting up and maintenance of standards? This book explores a new dimension in the operating theatre environment. It is therefore a unique book."
-(BMA Council Chair's Choice, chosen by Dr Mark Porter, BMA Medical Book Awards 2016)
"I am in awe of the knowledge and deep understanding possessed [by the] ? contributors of this very important complementary set of skills that not only should but must be embraced by all surgical teams ?"
-Bruce Barraclough, Former President, Royal Australasian College of Surgeons
"It defines the types of decision making that surgeons make on a daily basis without necessarily being aware of how they reached those decisions. I believe having this insight will help improve performance."
-Professor Sir Norman S. Williams, Past President, Royal College of Surgeons of England
