My Advice on Becoming a Safe and Competent Perioperative Nurse
One of the common questions I am asked by novice nurses is, “When will I know everything I need to be a safe and competent perioperative nurse?” Here is how I respond to those nurses.
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By: Lisa Spruce DNP, RN, CNS-CP, CNOR, ACNS, ACNP, FAAN
Published: 8/22/2024
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) is a patient-centered, evidence-based approach to achieve the best surgical outcomes by enhancing the recovery process. Originally developed for colorectal surgeries, ERAS protocols have expanded across various surgical specialties and most ERAS principles can be safely implemented with most perioperative patients. The goal of ERAS is to minimize the physiological and psychological stress of surgery – promoting faster recovery, reducing complications, and shortening hospital stays.
Perioperative nurses are at the center of successful implementation of ERAS protocols. Their responsibilities span across the entire surgical journey – from preoperative education to postoperative care. Here’s a closer look at the key roles perioperative nurses fulfill in ERAS:
Nurses can serve in the roles of ERAS Coordinators and ERAS Nurse Navigators and play a key role in ERAS interdisciplinary teams. To successfully implement ERAS protocols, perioperative nurses need to be well-versed in the specific guidelines and best practices associated with ERAS. Here are some key considerations:
The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) Guidelines Workshops provide perioperative nurses with the knowledge and tools – based on the AORN Guidelines for Perioperative Practice – needed to implement ERAS protocols effectively. At these workshops, nurses can expect to learn:
ERAS represents a significant advancement in perioperative care, and perioperative nurses are at the forefront of its successful implementation. By understanding the goals of ERAS, embracing their role in the process, and staying informed through continuous education like the AORN Guidelines Workshops, nurses can help ensure that patients experience the best possible outcomes after surgery. The ongoing commitment to evidence-based practice and patient-centered care will continue to drive improvements in surgical recovery and overall patient satisfaction.
Location | Date | Registration Info |
Los Angeles, CA | Sept. 14, 2024 | |
Denver, CO | Sept. 28, 2024 | |
Boston, MA | Oct. 5, 2024 | |
Chicago, IL | Oct. 19, 2024 | |
Houston, TX | Nov. 2, 2024 | |
Ft. Lauderdale, FL | Nov. 9, 2024 |
One of the common questions I am asked by novice nurses is, “When will I know everything I need to be a safe and competent perioperative nurse?” Here is how I respond to those nurses.
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