"in the operating room" vs "at the operating room"

Question

"in the operating room" vs "at the operating room"

Both "at the operating room" and "in the operating room" are commonly used phrases, but they are used in different contexts. "In the operating room" is the correct phrase to use when referring to someone being physically inside the room where surgeries are performed. On the other hand, "at the operating room" is used when talking about someone being near or in the vicinity of the operating room without necessarily being inside it.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to someone being physically inside the room where surgeries are performed.

Examples:

The surgery was performed in the operating room.
The patient was prepped in the operating room.
The doctors were discussing the case in the operating room.
Nurses were busy in the operating room.
The equipment was set up in the operating room.

Alternatives:

inside the operating room
within the operating room
within the OR
inside the OR
in the surgery room

This phrase is used when referring to someone being near or in the vicinity of the operating room without necessarily being inside it.

Examples:

The surgeon was waiting at the operating room entrance.
Family members were gathered at the operating room.
The equipment was stored at the operating room.
Visitors are not allowed at the operating room.
The patient was prepped at the operating room door.

Alternatives:

near the operating room
by the operating room
around the operating room
outside the operating room
adjacent to the operating room

Answer 1

in the operating room

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

at the operating room

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"in the operating room" vs "at the operating room"

in the operating room

at the operating room

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