Where Do Surgeons Put Their Wedding Rings During Surgery?

For a surgeon who is married, the act of placing their wedding ring during surgery is a well-considered and often necessary ritual. This article explores the common practices and personal experiences of surgeons from different roles within the healthcare system, including their preferences for securing their rings to ensure hygiene and safety.

Common Practices for Storing Wedding Rings

The most common solution among surgeons is to take their ring off and store it securely. This could be in a locker, their wallet (usually tucked into their scrubs), or even a pocket. Others prefer to thread a necklace through the ring and wear it around the neck. This is a popular option as it's convenient and easily accessible. For example, in Singapore, if you see a surgeon wearing a wedding ring on a necklace, chances are they are a male surgeon.

Surgical Scrub Setup

Many surgeons have a clip on their keychain or a custom design on their scrubs to secure their ring. For instance, a male Singaporean surgeon might use a clip on his keychain. When the surgery is over and he's changing out of his scrubs, he uses his keys to unlock his locker which serves as a reminder to put his ring back on.

Tying Rings to Waists and Necklaces

Some surgeons tie their rings to their waist ties for easy access and to prevent drops. Occasionally, they might place the ring in their shirt pocket, but this practice increases the risk of losing it. Another interesting practice mentioned is threading the ring onto a necklace worn during surgery. On a rare occasion, when a surgeon forgets to take the ring off, they might leave it at the nurse station on the surgical ward. A nurse there will then tuck it away in a drawer to ensure safety.

Surgical Tech Practices

Surgical technicians may use safety pins to attach their rings to their bras. This ensures that the ring stays with them even if they need to change clothes during the day. Surgical nurses often leave their rings at home, as there are multiple chances for them to be lost or damaged during the day. If a ring is accidentally left behind, the nurse will tuck it into a drawer at the nurse station, where it is protected from theft and damage.

Conclusion

The practice of where surgeons put their rings during surgery is as diverse as the professionals themselves. However, the primary objective remains the same: ensuring hygiene and safety during surgical procedures. Personal preferences, convenience, and the need for security all play a role in the individual choices made by surgeons, surgical technicians, and nursing staff.