6 Ways Perioperative Nurses Can Lead and Inspire the Next Generation OR Nurses

Incoming nurses should feel prepared and confident as they transition from academia to practice. This is where mentors play a vital role, and it doesn’t require a formal mentor title, according to Michael Rempel, DNP, RN, CNOR, Pediatric Trauma Program Manager in the Trauma Service at University Hospital in Newark, N.J.

Dr. Rempel says experienced OR nurses have something valuable to offer, whether it’s insights into a specific procedure or a simple word of encouragement. In his view, mentoring is a collective responsibility and “a deeply rewarding experience that provides the opportunity to share knowledge and help new nurses grow in their careers.”

Through the perioperative academic mentoring partnership program he leads, new nurses transitioning from the classroom to practical training are paired with experienced nurses. This mentoring provides hands-on guidance, helping new nurses apply theoretical concepts to real-world practice.

Drawing from his experiences as a mentor and educator, Dr. Rempel plans to share insights at AORN’s annual conference in April that will help nurses strengthen their mentoring skills.

He shared these six strategies so nurses can get a head start:

1. Foster a Supportive Learning Culture

   Welcome students warmly and help them feel like valued members of the team. Share personal experiences that highlight the unique aspects of perioperative nursing and show your passion by discussing what makes this specialty so rewarding.

2. Demonstrate Critical Thinking, Teamwork, and Effective Communication

   Encourage theory-to-practice connections to help students understand how classroom concepts apply in the OR. Facilitate discussions about real-world applications during cases, emphasizing how theoretical knowledge informs decision-making in complex surgical scenarios. Actively teach and model best practices and use teach-back methods to ensure comprehension and retention.

3. Provide Clear and Structured Guidance

   Offer step-by-step instruction on OR protocols, equipment handling, and communication during surgeries. Make time to foster opportunities for hands-on learning while ensuring patient safety.

4. Provide Resources and Tools to Ease the Transition

   Equip students and mentors with OR-specific guides and protocols. An important focus is encouraging reflection and feedback. “By using discussions, we reinforce learning and improve mentoring practices.”

5. Celebrate Milestones and Growth Opportunities

   Recognize accomplishments and provide ongoing encouragement and constructive feedback. Also, acknowledge challenges new nurses face and reflect on what they need to continue to build on.

6. Engage Continuous Learning

   Promote professional and emotional growth for both students and mentors. Provide opportunities for mentors to study current mentorship strategies that can be applied in both clinical and academic settings. “Learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. We encourage our students to be active members within the organization and continue their pursuit of gaining knowledge to translate into their best practice routines.”

To be selected as a mentor, Dr. Rempel advises leading by example. “The best mentors are approachable and supportive and encourage students by showing that growth and development are ongoing processes.”

Gain more mentoring skills by attending Dr. Rempel’s education session, Don't Put Baby in the Corner: The Perioperative Student Experience, at AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo in Boston, MA, April 5–8.