Integrating safety culture, environment, and sensory perceptions in the operating room: a narrative review.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to review the literature and reflect on the importance of sensory perceptions-colors, sounds, odors, taste, and kinetics (tactile and postural)-alongside team behavior and safety culture in the operating room.

Methods: MEDLINE search via PubMed up to March 2025, using both free terms and MeSH related to surgery, sensory perception, safety culture, and situational awareness in the operating room. Only English-language studies were included, with a focus on recent publications. Article selection was based on relevance to the core themes of the review.

Results: The study highlights how visual, auditory, olfactory, and thermal stimuli influence team performance and decision-making in the operation room. Color schemes, alarm sounds, ambient odors, and temperature control all play key roles in enhancing situational awareness and patient safety. Effective posture, communication, and ergonomics further contribute to minimizing errors and promoting a safety-driven culture.

Conclusion: The senses, along with communication and discipline, help the team respond effectively to critical situations. Like in aviation, sensory awareness is central to a strong safety culture.