Not only are travelers filling in gaps for overworked staff, but they are also helping ensure that patients still receive the care they need.

Samantha Breeding's journey from scrub tech to nurse educator was transformed through the AORN Mentor Program, where her mentor, Elizabeth Williams, helped her build confidence and leadership skills. Their connection sparked personal and professional growth, inspiring Samantha to pursue leadership roles within AORN and beyond.

Homework involves collecting the correct supplies and instruments for a case, knowing the basics of the type of surgery to be performed, and preparing for the “what ifs.”

In this week’s Periop Life blog, we explore how intra-op repositioning assessments can significantly boost patient safety. With 65% of surgeries missing critical positioning checks, these simple yet impactful strategies can help your OR team catch unnoticed patient movement and prevent complications.

An update published in the 2022 Guidelines for Perioperative Practice includes these key recommendations that every team can implement to prevent pressure injuries.

Retention and the right feedback approach go hand-in-hand.

In a recent AORN webinar called Motivating and Engaging the Youngest Generation at Work, presented by AORN’s Center for Perioperative Leadership, generational experts Lisa Walden and Hannah Ubl focused on who Gen Z is and why this group behaves the way they do.

I was proud knowing I was able to speak for the best interests of this patient and her quality-of-life post-breast cancer.

Since 2017, I’ve been working on an innovative project called Virtual Nurse, which I recently presented at the AORN 2024 Congress in Nashville. Virtual Nurse is an immersive and interactive virtual reality software designed to train both nursing students and professionals in the perioperative environment.

Education on preparing for patient deaths, including the processes and the caring practices, will prepare nurses to provide the most compassionate care possible.

Three ways educators can set themselves and their learners up for success are by creating a supportive learning environment, influencing goal setting, and establishing value.

Transform climate behaviors in periop care and beyond.

In this week’s Periop Life blog, we break down five proven strategies to strengthen your SSI prevention practices. From using antimicrobial sutures to better glucose monitoring, these practical tips will help your team overcome the common barriers between policy and practice.

As a new nurse, I need help with how to approach surgeons who are upset with surgical delays.

A look at some of the surgical firsts and discoveries that occurred in the 20th century.

The preceptor fills many roles: coach, leader, influencer, facilitator, evaluator, socializer, protector, role model, and most importantly – educator.

Hone key skills to improve staffing, revenue, and safety.

Shannen Baggett’s leadership philosophy is simple: she doesn’t eat until her team has. This metaphor for selfless leadership highlights her dedication to her team’s well-being, showing her willingness to put their needs before her own.

Discover how professional associations like AORN can elevate your perioperative nursing career. Learn about the benefits of networking, gaining industry knowledge, setting standards, developing leadership skills, and more. Join a community of like-minded professionals and unlock your career potential.

Surgical bingo is a fun activity that you can play with colleagues, friends, or anyone who loves the wonders of the perioperative environment!