Periop Talk

In this episode of the Periop Talk Podcast, host Hannah Campbell and guest Dr. Lisa Spruce explore Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) — a patient-centered, evidence-based approach proven to shorten recovery times and reduce complications. They discuss the purpose, importance, and implementation of ERAS protocols, and how facilities can earn recognition through AORN’s Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery. Dr. Spruce shares her inspiration for developing the ERAS Guideline and offers practical insights on overcoming common challenges in implementation. Whether you’re new to ERAS or preparing your facility for recognition, this episode provides essential guidance for improving patient outcomes and surgical safety.Have questions or looking for more information? We'd love to chat with you! Follow the link to reach out:  https://aornit.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/54/group/199/create/674Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to podcast series whe

Join Hannah Campbell, program manager for AORN's Surgical Safety Award Programs, in this episode of Periop Talk. Hannah interviews Marci Kling, a perioperative nurse educator at Emerson Health, who spearheaded the hospital's successful initiative to earn the Go Clear Award for smoke evacuation. Discover how Emerson Health transitioned to a smoke-free environment through grassroots efforts, leadership support, and staff education, leading to significant improvements in patient and staff safety. Learn More about how you can leverage AORN's Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety: Smoke Evacuation in your facility: https://www.aorn.org/education/education-for-facilities/surgical-safety-center-of-excellence/go-clear-awardsThis evidence-based program is made possible by Medtronic through the AORN Foundation.Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to podcast series where we examine the world of perioperative nursing.Episode after episode, we're bringing you professional tips, clinical

In this inspiring episode, we speak with Jill O'Connor, Nurse Manager for L&D and Mother-Baby at AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, and Tracey Young, Perioperative Clinical Nurse Specialist at UPMC, about how they leveraged AORN’s Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety: RSI Prevention award program to transform surgical safety in their organizations. Through the program’s structured framework, they implemented targeted education, new technologies, strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration, and embedded best practices into daily workflows. Their journey showcases how their passion for safety combined with COE designation can be a catalyst for culture change, empowering teams to reduce risks of RSIs and elevate patient care. Learn More about how you can leverage AORN's Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety: RSI Prevention in your facility:  https://www.aorn.org/education/education-for-facilities/surgical-safety-center-of-excellence/retained-surgical-items-rsiThis evidence-based program is made poss

Maintaining the sterility of surgical instruments is paramount to preventing infections and ensuring patient safety. AORN's updated guideline on packaging for sterilization provides crucial guidance for perioperative teams, addressing key concerns and promoting best practices for selecting, using, and maintaining packaging systems.Addressing Critical Issues in Packaging for SterilizationAORN periodically reviews and updates its guidelines to reflect current evidence and best practices. This update focuses on several critical areas:Packaging Defects: The guideline emphasizes the importance of minimizing packaging defects that can compromise sterility. Personnel Discomfort:Recognizing the ergonomic challenges faced by sterile processing professionals, the guideline addresses strategies to create a more comfortable and safe work environment.Quality of Pouches and Wraps: The guideline stresses the importance of inspecting single-use wraps and filters for defects before use.Streamlining Instrument Sets: The g

Sterilization is the cornerstone of infection prevention in the perioperative setting. AORN's newly updated guideline on sterilization provides crucial guidance for perioperative teams, addressing emerging challenges and reinforcing best practices.What's New in the Sterilization Guideline for Perioperative Teams?AORN's sterilization guideline undergoes regular review to incorporate the latest evidence and address evolving practices. This update tackles several critical areas:3D-Printed Devices:The increasing use of 3D-printed devices in healthcare presents unique sterilization challenges. The guideline provides guidance on appropriate sterilization methods for these complex devices.Short Cycle Sterilization:The practice of short cycle sterilization, while sometimes necessary, requires careful attention to detail. The updated guideline provides a clear definition of short cycle sterilization, aligning with CMS standards, and offers recommendations for its safe implementation.Transporting Sterili

Maintaining a hygienically clean environment is paramount—inside and outside of the operating room. Proper infection control protocols extend beyond the OR—to the hallways, changing rooms, and even our communities. That's why AORN’s updated guidelines for surgical attire are so crucial. These standards address the vital role attire plays in minimizing the risk of surgical site infections (SSIs) for patients, while also protecting healthcare workers and preventing the spread of microorganisms throughout the entire healthcare facility. These revisions address everything from lanyards and cell phones to head coverings and shoe covers, reflecting the latest evidence-based research and best practices. This isn't just about what you wear; it's about creating a consistently safe environment for every surgical procedure.Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to vlog and podcast series where we examine the world of perioperative nursing.Episode after episode, we're bringing you professi

Maintaining normothermia is crucial for patient safety during surgical procedures. The AORN updated guideline on patient temperature management, features an expanded scope and provides perioperative teams with the tools they need to implement consistent, high-quality care.The most significant change to the guideline is its name and scope. Previously focused solely on hypothermia prevention, the updated guideline now addresses patient temperature management, encompassing both hypothermia and malignant hyperthermia. This expansion reflects a more holistic approach to temperature regulation throughout the perioperative journey.Get more insights on how to build a patient temperature management plan: Maintaining Normothermia: AORN's Patient Temperature Management Guideline | AORN. Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to vlog and podcast series where we examine the world of perioperative nursing.Episode after episode, we're bringing you professional tips, clinical wisdom, and personal storie

What is the ERAS protocol?ERAS is a comprehensive approach involving a multidisciplinary team that implements best practices throughout the perioperative journey, from pre-admission through post-discharge. AORN emphasizes that ERAS aims to standardize care, reduce variability, and ultimately improve patient outcomes. While AORN's focus is on perioperative nursing, the organization recognizes ERAS as a collaborative, interprofessional effort. The AORN guidelines provide a framework for implementing ERAS principles in various surgical settings.How to access the AORN ERAS guideline?AORN's new ERAS guideline is a valuable resource for all members of the perioperative team and represents a significant step towards a future where ERAS is the standard of care for every surgical patient. The AORN guidelines offer evidence-based practice to standardize care and improve patient outcomes. The new ERAS guideline can be found in eGuidelines+, as well as the 2025 print guideline book and ebook.AORN also offers a

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Moving to an ASC#1 Can you handle fast and efficient turnovers?Quick room turnovers and efficient instrument reprocessing ensure smooth patient flow and high standards of care in an ASC. Key to this is effective teamwork, a strong understanding of OR and PACU standards of care, and ethical practices to uphold quality and safety protocols.#2 Do you have expertise in a specialty care area?Experience in orthopedics or cardiovascular, for example, is advantageous, as it makes nurses more versatile and valuable in an ASC setting. Critical care experience is also beneficial for PACU or overnight care in an ASC because it enhances the ability to handle emergent, unanticipated patient events.#3 Are you comfortable collaborating with surgeons?Surgeons often have a vested interest in the center and are supportive and collaborative with staff, Davidson notes. “My experience as an AAAHC Surveyor allowed me to see how a collaborative and engaging ASC work environment can foster a culture o

In this episode of Periop Talk, host Nakeisha Tolliver, AORN's 2024 President, sits down with AORN's longest-serving CEO, Linda Groah, to discuss the future of perioperative nursing. They delve into the impact of emerging technologies like AI and telehealth, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and the evolving role of perioperative nurses.Linda Groah also shares insights on the future of nursing education and training, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and the integration of technology into curricula. The discussion highlights the importance of patient-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the well-being of perioperative nurses.Tune in to learn more about the exciting future of perioperative nursing and how you can prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to vlog and podcast series where we examine the world of perioperative nursing.Episode after episode, we're bringing you professional tips, clinic

In May of 2024 Linda Groah, AORN's longest-serving CEO/Executive Director, announced her plans to retire at the end of the year. In this episode, we celebrate Linda's tenure and look back on the plast 20 years of transformative change in perioperative nursing. We delve into the most profound changes in the field, exploring how the role of the perioperative nurse has evolved over the past two decades. The discussion highlights the impact of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist on nursing practice, detailing how it has enhanced patient safety and standardized procedures.We also examine the challenges and successes of implementing the RN circulator mandate across various states, shedding light on the advocacy efforts and legislative hurdles faced. The episode further explores AORN's significant contributions to eliminating surgical smoke, emphasizing the improvements in patient and nurse safety that resulted from these efforts.Listeners will gain insights into the major shifts in perioperative nursin

How to Collaborate with an ASC Governing BodyIn this episode of Periop Talk, we discuss strategies for effectively working with ASC governing bodies.Join us as we delve into the role of governing bodies in ASCs, the importance of clear communication, and the role of data-driven decision making. Our guest expert, Dr. Tamala Norris-McJunkins, shares valuable insights on:Understanding the Governing Body: Learn about the composition of governing bodies and their primary responsibilities.Effective Communication: Discover tips for conveying complex information clearly and concisely to the governing body.Data-Driven Decision Making: Explore how to leverage data to influence decisions and drive improvements.Building Strong Relationships: Learn how to foster positive relationships with governing body members.Whether you're a seasoned ASC administrator or a newcomer to the field, this episode provides practical advice to help you navigate the complexities of working with governing bodies and achieve optimal outcom

How Periop Nurses Create a Culture of Safety (and the Business Case for Why They Make Great Leaders in a Perioperative Setting)Perioperative nurses play a vital role in healthcare, ensuring patient safety and optimizing surgical outcomes. Their dedication to patient advocacy, attention to detail, and ability to foster a culture of collaboration make them invaluable leaders in the operating room (OR).Nurses as Patient AdvocatesAt the heart of perioperative nursing is a deep commitment to patient advocacy. Nurses are the primary advocates for their patients, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the surgical process. They meticulously monitor patients' vital signs, anticipate potential complications, and communicate effectively with the surgical team to ensure the best possible outcomes.Creating a Culture of SafetyPerioperative nurses are instrumental in creating a culture of safety within the OR. They are meticulous about following protocols, ensuring that all equipment and supplies are sterile,

In this episode of Periop Talk, we dive deep into the world of Gen Z and their impact on the perioperative nursing workforce. Join host Jake Runion, Sr. Manager of AORN's Center for Perioperative Leadership, and guest expert Lisa Walden, Co-Founder of Good Company Consulting, as they explore the unique characteristics, values, and expectations of this emerging generation.Learn how to:Understand Gen Z: Discover the defining factors that shape Gen Z's perspectives and behaviors.Bridge generational gaps: Explore strategies for effective communication and collaboration across generations.Create a welcoming workplace: Learn how to adapt your workplace culture to meet the needs of Gen Z.Navigate technology: Understand the role of technology in Gen Z's professional lives and how to leverage it effectively.Foster a positive work environment: Discover practical tips for creating a fulfilling and rewarding experience for Gen Z periop nurses.Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to vlog and p

The Future of Nursing Report provides a comprehensive blueprint for transforming nursing practice and improving patient care. It highlights critical issues facing the nursing profession and offers evidence-based recommendations to address these challenges. The report has had a significant impact on shaping nursing policy and practice, and it continues to serve as a valuable resource for nurses, healthcare organizations, and policymakers.The Future of Nursing Report could have a significant impact on periop nurses in several ways:Increased Autonomy: The report recommends that nurses be given greater autonomy to practice to the full extent of their education and training. This could lead to increased job satisfaction and improved patient outcomes for periop nurses.Enhanced Leadership Opportunities: The report emphasizes the importance of developing nurse leaders. Periop nurses could benefit from increased opportunities to take on leadership roles and contribute to shaping the future of the profession.Improved E

Caring for kids in the operating room can be difficult. They're often scared and anxious, and their caregivers are too. But knowing a kid's age and using the right words can make a big difference.This episode of Periop Talk explores how kids think and feel at different ages. It also gives tips on how to talk to them and their caregivers. By tailoring the communication style, periop nurses can help kids feel safe and comfortable, and provide their caregivers peace of mind.Support the showWelcome to the Periop Talk—your go-to vlog and podcast series where we examine the world of perioperative nursing.Episode after episode, we're bringing you professional tips, clinical wisdom, and personal stories that'll make you feel like you're chatting with your work BFFs. Curious about the latest surgical techniques? We got you. Wondering how to navigate the challenges of the periop journey? We're here for that too.Our vlog and podcast series isn't just about sharing information; it'

How perioperative nurses can create an inclusive environment for transgender and gender diverse patientsProviding compassionate and respectful care to all patients is a cornerstone of perioperative nursing. Creating an inclusive environment for transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) patients is essential for delivering optimal care. Respecting Patient Identity: Names and PronounsConsistent Usage: Ensure that the patient's pronouns and chosen name are used consistently throughout the perioperative journey, from pre-operative assessment to post-operative care.Documentation: Document the patient's pronouns and preferred name in the electronic medical record (EMR) and on identification bands.Communication: Encourage open communication among staff members to ensure everyone is using the correct name and pronouns.Addressing Patient Concerns and AnxietyActive Listening: Create a safe space for patients to express their concerns and fears.Empathy and Support: Offer emotional support and reassurance throughout

The 2023 update to the AORN Minimally Invasive Surgery Guideline introduced significant changes to enhance patient safety and improve perioperative care. Here are some of the key highlights:   Preoperative AssessmentEnhanced patient assessment: The guideline emphasizes a more comprehensive preoperative assessment to identify potential risks and complications associated with minimally invasive surgery (MIS).   Fluid deficit thresholds: New recommendations focus on determining patient-specific maximum hysteroscopic fluid deficit thresholds to prevent complications.   Collaboration and CommunicationTeam-based approach: The updated guideline promotes a collaborative approach among perioperative team members to improve communication and efficiency.   Robotic-assisted procedures: Specific recommendations address communication and workflow processes for robotic-assisted procedures.   Emergency preparedness: The guideline includes guidance on preparing for potential conversions to open procedures and other emergencie

New updates to the VTE guidelines empower nurses to take a more proactive role in preventing Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) or blood clots. This includes the ability to initiate preventive measures, such as applying compression stockings or using inflatable leg sleeves, at an earlier stage when a patient is suspected to be at high risk.The revised guidelines emphasize the crucial role of thorough risk assessment. Nurses should not only evaluate a patient's susceptibility to VTE formation but also consider their risk of bleeding complications. To ensure effective implementation, the guidelines come with a comprehensive toolkit for nurses. These tools include resources for risk assessment and selecting the most suitable preventative measures for each individual patient.The updated guidelines also recognize the significant contribution of perioperative nurses in preventing VTE. These nurses can play a vital role by educating patients about the importance of early mobilization after surgery. Encouraging patien

Burnout in Perioperative Nursing: Key Takeaways from the VideoThis conversation between Jake Runion, sr. manager of AORN’s Center for Perioperative Leadership and Tammy Hanks, Perioperative Practice Specialist at AORN, highlights the critical issue of burnout among perioperative nurses. Here are the key takeaways:High Burnout Rates: The vacancy rate for OR nurses is at 16%, with a significant portion leaving within their first year. This is causing delays and cancellations in surgeries.Factors Contributing to Burnout:Unpredictable Schedules: OR nurses often have fluctuating schedules, making it difficult to plan personal lives.Lack of Staffing: Understaffing creates a heavy workload and pressure on existing nurses.Stressful Work Environment: The fast-paced and demanding nature of the OR can contribute to stress.Poor Onboarding: Inadequate mentorship and training for new nurses can lead to feelings of inadequacy and overwhelm.Solutions for Reducing Burnout:Flexible Scheduling: Facilities should explore options