How much time do you spend making surgical slush before or during a case? Have you ever considered how long your open surgical slush is exposed to airborne contaminants and fluid-loving pathogens?  In this First Case Vendor SpotlightTM we sit down with Ruth Stachura, MBA, RN, Vice President Business Development at °C Change Surgical, to discover the benefits of a closed and fully-automated surgical slush system – SurgiSLUSHTM. In this interview we’ll learn more about this highly efficient, set and forget technology that yields predictive, expert slush supply, every time. With a streamlined intraoperative workflow and confirmed sterile barrier integrity, SurgiSLUSH is the infection prevention asset every OR needs.  </spa

“We don’t have enough space!” “Where is all of this old equipment supposed to go?” If this sounds familiar, and you’ve got a basement or warehouse full of old, unused equipment, then tune in to this eye-opening Vendor SpotlightTM with Ashley Jackson, VP of Business Development and Curtis McEntire, Founder and CEO at Mazree. Most hospitals do not have an asset disposition program, which leaves our storage spaces and equipment rooms overflowing with old, outdated, unused equipment. This not only leads to frustration, but also to lost revenue. Find out how <span class="x_markptedr3myj x_ContentPasted0" data-markjs="true" data-ogac="" data-ogab="" data-ogsc="" data-ogsb=""

Simulation is seen as a valuable educational resource to aid in staff development, but competing demands for time and resources can present challenges in incorporating this hands-on learning into perioperative education plans. Listen to this session from OR Manager Conference 2022 to learn new ways to work hands-on learning into your staffing schedule. The next OR Manager Conference is September 18-20, 2023, in Nashville, TN. View the full agenda at ormanagerconference.com and register using promocode PODCAST to receive a discount! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲 Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL Android users: https://zcu.io/j7Kx Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻 Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G #opera

We've partnered with OR Manager to bring you a bonus special-release episode! Tune in to this session from OR Manager Conference 2022, Understanding Health Equity through Clinical Storytelling, to learn the historical precedence and the social determinants of health, how quality care delivery requires that clinicians listen to and respect their patients’ individual narratives, backgrounds, and experiences. The quality of patient care is significantly enhanced when culturally empathetic clinicians center their patients’ needs. Narrative reflection, or clinical storytelling, offers a pathway to health equity by prioritizing compassion and the patient’s perspective in delivering patient-centered care. The next OR Manager Conference is September 18-20, 2023 in Nashville, TN. View the full agenda at www.ormanagerconference.com and register using promocode PODCAST to receive a discount! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile a

Have you ever grabbed a power tool off of your backtable only to be horrified when bioburden fell out of it? If you’ve ever experienced this, you’ll want to tune in to this First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Jason Moonen, Product Manager at Aesculap! We’re going to discover the ELAN® 4 Power System today, the only micro power system that you can flush internally from proximal to distal end. This design allows bioburden to be forced out of the handpiece, giving you the confidence of clean instruments, and the peace of mind in helping to reduce surgical site infections caused by contaminated instruments.  <span style= "font-size: 11.0pt; font-family: 'Calibri',sans-serif; color:

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR. In this article, Lindsey shares the Top 10 things you need to know if you're going to be working in Vascular Surgery.   "Vascular can seem like a scary specialty, but using these ten tips that I'm going to share with you today will help you prepare yourself for these cases with confidence." Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Vascular #VascularSurgery #perioperative #ORNurse #ScrubTech #ScrubNurse

In this Special Release before we kick off Season 8, tune in to this session from the 2022 OR Manager Conference to learn tips, insights and perspectives on successfully climbing the leadership ladder. The next conference is September 18-20, 2023 in Nashville, TN. Check out the agenda and register at www.ormanagerconference.com. Use code PODCAST and save! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲 Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL Android users: https://zcu.io/j7Kx Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻 Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.

Surgical gloves make it possible for us to safely operate on patients every single day. However, persistent exposure to latex gloves increases the risk of a latex reaction for patients and clinicians alike. In today’s First Case Vendor SpotlightTM, we’re speaking with Dr. Rosemary Sergakis, Global Medical Science Lead (US) at Cardinal Health about the exposure risks associated with latex surgical gloves and about the benefits of switching to latex-free surgical gloves. In this interview, we’ll discover how Cardinal Health has supported hundreds of latex-free OR conversions, how they tailor the conversion specifically to each facility, and how converting to latex-free surgical gloves improves the safety of clinicians and patients.  As <span class= "x_xxx

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is in partnership with OR Manager. In this interview with Mike Ellrich, healthcare portfolio manager and principal consultant with analytics and advisory company Gallup in Washington DC, learn 5 keys to effective well-being in the OR. Plus, learn why OR suites can benefit from a well-being program! Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #ORManager #wellbeing #nursing #nurse #ornurse

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, and Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this article, Lindsey and Melanie share the Top 10 things you need to know if you're going to be working in Orthopedic Surgery.   "In today's Top 10, we're going to talk about Orthopedic Surgery, and go beyond the bones to talk about the items that are common to Orthopedics, regardless of the subspecialty." Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets bu

How many times do you handle privacy curtains during a regular shift? In surgical services, we often have privacy curtains in our preoperative and postoperative areas. How often do we touch the curtain, and then touch the patient? Do you know what contaminants have been found on privacy curtains? In today's First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Karen Goelst, CEO & Founder of KleenEdge, we’re going to discover the realities of privacy curtain management and find out how privacy curtains can contribute to hospital acquired infections. We’ll also learn how KleedEdge is automating privacy curtain compliance and improving patient and staff safety. KleenEdge offers multiple no-ladder solutions with one curtain per track which translates into reduced labor and a significant reduction in curtain costs. They ensure compliance with their Scan and Go Protocol software offering both periodic and Isolation room exchanges along with automated rem

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this article, Melanie offers 5 tips for handling stress in the Operating Room.  "The operating room environment will always have associated stress, it's just the nature of what we do. But that doesn't give us the right to treat our coworkers poorly, just because we're stressed. Take care of yourself, physically and mentally, so that you're better prepared to handle the stress when it inevitably comes along." ------ Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Thin

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this special Mother's Day release, Melanie takes a minute to recognize the hardworking moms who are making a difference in healthcare.  "...but regardless of the job that we do, what doesn't change is that we're all still moms. Moms trying to work full-time, part time, or PRN to support our families while still juggling all of the schedules, responsibilities, and challenges that come with having a family." <sp

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this article, Melanie offers practical tips and insight for new nurses in the Operating Room.  "The Operating Room (OR) is overwhelming. Whether you’re a new grad showing up on your first day as an RN, or you're new but have been a nurse in another department for 20 years, it’s a whole new world behind that red line. It's a world where a beach chair has nothing to do with the beach, a beanbag is not a toy, and a donut is not a tasty breakfast treat.<span style= "font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: 'Lato',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family:

How often do you handle specimens in your operating room? Have you ever considered your risk of exposure to a Class 1 carcinogen every time you add formalin to your specimen containers?  Formalin is recognized as a Class 1 carcinogen, and exposure to the fumes is a safety issue for all OR staff. But, healthcare organizations can now mitigate this health and safety risk. Find out how in this eye-opening First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Michelle Bell, Applications Manager at Milestone Medical. What are the risks associated with formalin, and how can we mitigate those risks? How can we keep our staff safe while continuing to use formalin? The answer lies in the only automated formalin dispensing system on the market – the UltraSAFE.  Discover how UltraSAFE offers enhanced employee safety by eliminating exposure to formalin during the fill process and also significantly reduces the risk of a hazardous chemical spill in the Operating Room.   You can learn more

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this article, Melanie discusses three specific benefits of double gloving, and explains that double gloving is a practice for all of us, not just for those in specific specialties.  "The benefits of double gloving reach across the lines of the various specialties. Everyone can benefit from double gloving, regardless of the type of surgery they are doing.<span style= "font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: 'Lato',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; color: #2a2929; border: none windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: n

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this article, Melanie examines the benefits that a fresh perspective can add to our department. And, she highlights the importance of asking, "Why?" "Do we fully appreciate the value that a fresh perspective and a new set of eyes brings to our department and to our established processes?<span style= "font-size: 12.0pt; font-family: 'Lato',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman';

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNL. In this article, Lindsey shares the Top 10 things you need to know if you're going to be working in Cardiac Surgery.   "While I still learn things daily, there are 10 things that stand out that every OR nurse and scrub should know about cardiac surgery. Here's my Top 10..." ------ Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional

Can professional growth include coaching? How can a career coach help me personally and professionally? You are going to find out today as we sit down with Certified Professional Career Coach Phyllis Quinlan, PhD, RN! As the President and CEO of MFW Consultants to Professionals and the Career Coach for AORN, Phyllis brings 40+ years of nursing experience and over 20 years of coaching experience to our conversation today. How can we identify our character strengths? What blindspots do we have to our own behaviors? How can we let go of behaviors that are no longer serving us? We will discuss all of this and more on today’s episode. Don’t miss it! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲 Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL Android users: https://zcu.io/j7Kx Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻 Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK<b

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNL. In this article, Lindsey discusses the fire triangle, and the importance of fire safety training in our ORs.   "Which is why education is the key to these preventable disasters. All of the surgical team, from the surgeon and anesthesiologist to the circulator and scrub, to the other staff within the department MUST know what is required of them should a fire occur. Equally as important, however, is that all of these same team members know what role they play in fire prevention." ------ Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! <span

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this thought-provoking article, Melanie uses a gardening metaphor to remind OR Leaders to be visible and to be pay attention to their employees so they are able to pick up on any issues quickly.  ------ Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Leadership

What have you heard about UV-C Disinfection? Are all low-level disinfection devices created equally? Find out the truth about UV-C disinfection in this exciting First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Gunner Lyslo, Founder and CEO of Surfacide. Learn how low-level disinfection with UV-C energy significantly reduces the presence of viruses and bacteria, and find out how it disinfects colonized surfaces in our operating rooms.  We’ll also discover how providing an added layer of disinfection with Surfacide’s Best-in-Class Helios System increases patient, surgeon, and employee confidence, builds patient loyalty, and even improves HCAHPS scores. If you want to be confident that your operating rooms aren’t harboring an enemy that you can’t see, tune in today! You can learn more about the world’s only American made, patented, triple emitter robotic UV-C light solution available on the market today by visiting www.surfacide.com.  You can also follo

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, we've teamed up with OR Manager to bring you great insights into negotiating anesthesia contracts. Find out what successful negotiation means and learn what mistakes to avoid. Plus, tune in for a special discount to the OR Business Management Conference, just for First Case listeners! ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG #anesthesia #ORManager

What will 3 hip replacements in 4 years get you? If you’re Johnny Caffaro, CEO & Founder of Caffaro Way, it will give you the lived experience as a hip-replacement patient, a strong personal brand to tell your story, and a heart for teaching others how to advocate for themselves and for their care. Join us as Johnny shares his story, find out how he built his personal brand through the power of social media, and learn how YOU can be an advocate for your surgical care. Don’t miss this powerful bonus episode! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲 Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL Android users: https://zcu.io/j7Kx Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻 Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G #OperatingRoom #Surgery #SocialMedia #Influencer #PatientExperience #Advocate #P

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In this playful poem, Melanie highlights the hard work of those in the operating room, especially during the holiday season, and reminds us all that what we do every single day makes a difference in the lives of our patients.  ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Christmas

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, she shares critical insights on the importance of disaster preparation, training, and readiness for our healthcare facilities.   "And that is why preparation is key. Take the time to prepare for internal and external disasters before they occur. Run the fire drills, tornado drills, evacuation drills, and malignant hypothermia drills. Learn them when the stakes aren't high and the pressure is low, so that when the time comes, you can fall back on what you've already learned and you'll be able to successfully navigate whatever disaster you find yourself in." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioper

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Brenna Page, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNAMB, she shares what it was like to be on the other side of the stretcher and the perspective that she gained as a recent surgical patient.  "I was recently a patient myself. I was already familiar with the facility, and the staff was made up of people that I work with, yet I was still nervous. I haven’t had surgery in well over 10 years, but this experience provided me with the fresh perspective I needed to improve the care that I give to my own patients. I made a mental note of 11 different things, and I want to share them with you today. Hopefully they'll be a good reminder to you as well as you're caring for your patients." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy

What do revenue models have to do with the profitability of your Operating Room? How is the changing landscape going to impact the bottom line of your hospitals today and into the future? From charge stickers on every item, to capitation rates and merit-based incentive pay, we’re all experiencing a transformation in the payment structure of patient care even if we can't quite get our minds around it. In this First Case Vendor Spotlight™ interview, we dive into this hot topic in healthcare with Dan Pfister, President of United Pathways, Inc. Join us as we discuss the tension between delivering patient care within our current silos and hand-offs, and the new world of hospital finance that is coming for all of us. Tune in to find out how to prepare your OR team for the transformation that is coming, and learn about how you can play a part as change agent right where you are! For more information, you can connect with Dan on LinkedIn or email him at <a href="mailto:dan.pfister@un

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNL, CNOR, she shares her experience scrubbing an open heart case for the very first time. "Repetition is the key to mastering any surgical specialty. The major portions of a CABG that require precise knowledge of steps is cannulation (going on the heart/lung machine) and doing anastomosis. You better know those steps backwards, forwards and in your sleep or else things can go bad fast. Learning these was by far the hardest part of learning to scrub hearts..." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG #heartsurgery #CVOR #openheart

Surgeons need high-quality instruments that are dependable and guaranteed to work, every single time. But not all surgical instruments are created equal in terms of precision, durability, and quality. In today’s First Case Vendor Spotlight, Dr. Mark Jewell, a recognized world leader in plastic surgery, shares his experiences using Stille instruments, which are exclusively distributed in the US by Synovis, MCA. Did you know that the vast majority of Stille instruments are handcrafted by their highly skilled instrument makers in Eskilstuna, west of Stockholm, Sweden? The instruments’ journey from a rod of stainless steel to a finished instrument is a long one, involving multiple stages. Stille’s unique method of crafting its instrument materials, and its usage of only the very highest-grade steels, give their instruments their unique feel and durability. Tune in as Dr. Jewell discusses Stille's light, well-balanced, precision workmanship and learn more about the benefits of using Stil

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he shares 5 tips to get started controlling the inventory of the surgery department. "By standardizing our processes, our teams know where to look for supplies, and our materials management teams can more easily keep our shelves stocked. This has the added benefit of improving our efficiency and productivity. And by keeping open lines of communication, we are reducing the possibility of last-minute stress from unordered supplies or out of stock items" ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG

What if there were an intuitive solution that could help prevent surgical fires and related patient burns? Would you have greater peace of mind if you knew that your patient and the surgical drapes could be protected from the heat generated by your light cables? Joining us in this special Fire Safety Week First Case Vendor Spotlight™ is Kamil Makhnejia, VP of Clinical Development at Jackson Medical, discussing their straight-forward solution that creates a safer standard of care for our patients.  Whether we’re talking about laparoscopic, arthroscopic, or cystoscopic surgical cases, all of them require the use of a light source. And all of them carry a risk of surgical fire due to the heat generated by using a light cable. During this exclusive interview, you’ll learn how GloShield™ is effectively reducing the risk of surgical fires and patient burns through its proactive approach to patient safety. Find out how this hard-working, intuitive device can protect your patients, y

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he shares how we can increase overall room utilization in surgery.  "The ultimate goal of blocks is to improve the overall utilization of the OR by rewarding those physicians that consistently use their time. By taking a deeper look at how block time is released at your facility, and determining whether or not it is specialty-specific, or if you have a one-size-fits-all approach, you can increase overall room utilization within your department." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG

It’s no secret that onboarding new staff is a very resource-intensive process. Traditionally, new hires are at the mercy of their trainer’s experience and competency level, and it can be challenging to ensure that every new surgical resident, surgical technician or OR circulator is receiving a thorough orientation. We need to be able to train our new employees consistently, thoroughly, and effectively – but how?   In this First Case Vendor Spotlight, join us in discovering Incision Academy and Incision Assist – two technologies that can improve the resource efficiency of onboarding all surgical personnel. Tune in as we explore the platforms that were built BY healthcare professionals FOR healthcare professionals. With over 600 courses, Incision Academy covers everything from safety, to procedures, to devices and skills. Their high-quality videos with 3D inlays and animations are laid out in a step-by-step, easy to follow format, and all are mapped to ASA and AST core curricul

In this special Bonus Episode, we talk to our very own Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN. Paul’s 45 year career has spanned every position in healthcare, from orderly, to OR nurse, to CEO, and entrepreneur. Join us as we celebrate his contributions to the operating room, reflect on the mentors who shaped him throughout his career, and listen as he shares valuable lessons that he learned along the way. While he may be retiring, and stepping down from his role as co-host of the podcast, he will always be a part of our team at First Case. Happy Retirement, Paul! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲 Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL Android users: https://zcu.io/j7Kx Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻 Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G #operatingroom #surgery #podcast #men

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNL, CNOR, she shares 5 tips to help new-to-the-OR, experienced nurses succeed in the operating room.   "Whatever the reason [the nurse came to the OR], we want to ensure they have a successful transition from their previous specialty to the peri-operative specialty." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he discusses the many changes he has seen since 1977, and what he has learned in the process.  "So, this brings me back to the patient.  We get so wrapped up in meeting performance targets that the patient becomes an afterthought.  We have to strive for balance in achieving realistic goals with personalized care.  Because, after all, our patients are our primary focus, and the reason that we are in the operating room." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNL, CNOR, she shares insight into how we can help new grads find success in the Operating Room.  "New grads in the OR will be one of the answers to the nursing shortage that’s plaguing many institutions across the country. It’s up to us to help them succeed so they want to stay in the OR for their nursing profession." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #operatingroom #newgrad #surgery #perioperative

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he evaluates the Pre-Admission Testing department, and explains ways to improve efficiency.  "Finding ways to make it easier for the RNs in Pre-Admission Testing to collect information and improving efficiency within this department will reduce cost and esure that all patient information is available prior to the patient's procedure." ---- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Productivity #Perioperative

In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he discusses what factors should be considered when determining whether or not to allow a surgeon to flip rooms. "One of the most important variables is how many cases can be done in a day, and how consistent the surgeon is in bringing enough volume to fill a day." Tune in to hear more!  ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Productivity #Perioperative

Should sterile fields be covered? What do the guidelines say? How can you cover them safely? Tune in to this exciting First Case Vendor Spotlight with Laurel Stebbins, Clinical Specialist at TIDI Products, to get the answers to these questions and more! Sterile-Z is the only product on the market designed specifically to cover the sterile field. In this exclusive interview, we discuss the common practices and misconceptions about covering sterile fields and go over the current AORN guidelines that impact frontline OR clinicians. We also dive into how the Sterile-Z drape standardizes the Operating Room's process for covering sterile fields, removes confusion, and helps eliminate contamination.   For more information on the Sterile-Z drape and TIDI Products, follow them on: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/tidi

When was the last time your surgical instrument tray "recipes" were revised? Was it when you added something new? What about when an instrument is removed? In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN, he discusses how our trays and count sheets should be optimized so that our trays are accurate and so that unused instruments are removed. "By optimizing the trays, you are apt to find improved accuracy rates and fewer missing items." It takes a team approach to tackle the challenge of optimizing trays, but the end results are worth it! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #InstrumentTrays #Optimization #Perioperative

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In it she draws an interesting parallel between what she noticed in a hair salon and how we should be treating new grads in our own department.  "New grads are eager to learn. When we're willing to bring them into the environment, or department, that they want to work in, and then we take the time to invest in them, we create that career OR nurse who is confident, secure in their abilities, and able to pass that on to the next generation of new grads." Tune in to hear more! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN. In it he offers practical suggestions that can make procedure day more efficient and cost effective.   If you have trouble getting your first cases of the day started on time, then you don't want to miss Paul's 4 key areas of opportunity that will help improve those on-time starts!  ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #OnTimeStarts #Efficiency #Productivity

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In it she discusses something that has become so engrained in us as healthcare professionals, that we might not even realize that it exists.  "Think about it: we work in a high-stakes, high-risk environment. One mistake could cost a patient their lives, or cost us our license and careers. There really is no room for error. But we come to work, day in and day out, shouldering that responsibility, oftentimes without giving it a second thought. This is just what we do and it's part of the job." Tune in to hear more about the burden of perfection, and to get Melanie's advice for how to carry it! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative,

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In it she discusses her experience with a Joint Commission survey, and shares 4 helpful tips to decrease any anxiety you may have about speaking with a surveyor.  Tune in to hear Melanie's advice and increase your confidence when answering questions during a survey! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #TheJointCommission

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN. In it he discusses the different factors that affect productivity in the operating room.  "One of the greatest challenges to matching productivity standards and achieving a benchmark is ensuring that you are including and excluding similar roles within the department." Tune in to learn more about productivity and find out what questions you must consider before determining the productivity standard for your perioperative area.  ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #Articles

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM. In it she discusses how dangerous it can be to have an attitude that says, "that might be how we're 'supposed' to do it, but let me show you how we really do it."  "When an attitude or culture exists within an OR that allows, or even prioritizes, personal preference or convenience over following established guidelines designed to ensure patient safety or prevent infection, we're setting ourselves up for disaster."  Tune in to hear more about fostering an atmosphere that prioritizes everyday compliance! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! <span style="font-weight: 40

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN where he discusses how both "sequential processes and parallel processes must be performed like a symphony orchestra to perform a flawless case." Tune in to hear Paul address these different processes and how they can be improved to increase efficiency. ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast <a href= "https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=operatingroom&highlightedUpda

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR. In it she discusses her experience during orientation in the operating room, and shares helpful tips for anyone else on orientation.  "I will never forget my first day on orientation in surgery. Total information overload - I had a deer-in-the-headlights look that everyone could see from a mile away. I watched a surgeon do a knee scope and I remember thinking, "What have I gotten myself into??!" My anxiety level was sky-high. I'm pretty sure I questioned all of my career choices at that one moment...." Tune in to learn more about surgical orientation and learn a few tips to ensure success! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Oper

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR. In it she discusses realities of patient care in the OR, and the misconceptions that other nursing departments have about the job that we do.  "I work in a very specialized field. Alot of the skills I learned in nursing school and then practiced when I worked on the floor just don't apply in the OR. But while my skill set is unique, my goal to provide the safest and best care for my patients is the same as every other nurse. How I care for my patients, though, is very different. But different does not mean non-existent." Tune in to hear more about patient care in the operating room! ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR. In it she discusses the importance of communication between the entire surgical team, and how fundamental effective communication is to patient safety.   "The consent, the surgical posting, the patient interview, the time out, and the handoff are all times when effective communication is critical. These interactions, either with the patient or about the patient, lay the foundation for a safe surgical experience. Don’t overlook these opportunities, or discredit their value. Each of them is communicating information we need in order to safely care for our patients. And our patients are depending on us to get it right." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Kelly Good, CRNA. In it she tackles the topic of tape and sheds a light on just how dirty our rolls of tape can be."In the operating room, we all know and love tape! A most adaptable tool, tape serves a wide range of uses including labeling instruments, holding up drapes, and repairing tears in mattresses. In patient care, rolls of tape serve to close eyes for surgery, reinforce protective dressings, and secure lines, tubes, and catheters to skin. But, what if the widespread reuse of a roll of tape across multiple patients and purposes is actually NOT best practice and a potential cause for HARM to patients? Maybe we shouldn’t be reusing and recycling tape but simply reducing its use altogether." ------- Articles On-the-Go p

What habits or activites are we so accustomed to that we no longer realize that they aren't safe? What shortcuts or work-arounds have we accepted as 'normal' even though they put our patients or ourselves at risk? In today's article, David Gomez, CRNA, explains how the concept of highly reliable organizations applies to the operating room and explains how normalization of deviance, group-think, shortcuts, and work-arounds actually work against us in achieving our desired outcomes. ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #NormalizationOfDeviance

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR. In it she discusses the vital role that SPD plays within the perioperative space, and emphasizes their value to the team. "We can’t operate in a dirty room or with broken equipment. We can’t operate if we don’t have staff to run the room or anesthesia available to sedate the patient. And we can’t operate without sterile instruments. Let’s change the way we see SPD, and recognize them for the valuable members of the team that they are." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #SterileProcessing

When it comes to adding space, a hospital has two options: move to a new building and renovate, which can completely disrupt staff operation, or use the current space and invest in a more space-efficient storage system. On this First Case Vendor Spotlight we talk with Ian Loper from DSI about an integrated, high-density storage system that can meet all the safe and efficient sterile storage and transportation needs of your facility. If you’re interested in an efficient healthcare storage system that will increase employee productivity, decrease the cost of labor, and increase bottom-line savings, you’re not going to want to miss this! Visit https://zurl.co/bKoD to learn more or e-mail [email protected]. Follow Ian and the rest of the DSI team on LinkedIn. #VendorSpotlight #SterileStorage #SterileTransport #Sterilization #SterilityAssurance #DSI #EmployeeRetention #Safety #BlueWrap #Steril

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN where he discusses the questions we need to ask ourselves when determining the amount of time that should be allocated for processing instruments. "Having a realistic unit of service for the SPD area will ensure that the resources that are necessary to support the efficient turnaround of surgical instrumentation for the operating room will be present and allow the operating room to run as efficiently as possible." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN where he discusses three factors that must be considered when determining how many anesthesia technicians are needed for a department. "By considering the needs of the many different patients that will be in your department each day, and by following recommended staffing guidelines, you’re setting your department and your techs up for success, and providing the appropriate numbers of staff to assist with patient care." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, RN, BSN, CNOR co-host of the First Case podcast and founder of The Circulating Life where she outlines the keys to changing the culture within the OR: " Bad behavior in the OR isn't going to change overnight. We need zero-tolerance policies that are enforced, regardless of who the aggressor is. We need clear ways to make our voices heard and direct lines of communication when we need to escalate an issue. We need people in leadership who will listen and act. But, we need more than that..... We have to be part of the solution as well. Every single one of us needs to take responsibility for our own behavior, and we need to show kindness and compassion to everyone we work with, regardless of job title or position." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a cre

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN co-host of the First Case podcast and founder of Alpha Consulting Group, Inc. where he talks about best practices for case carts by looking at who, how, and when a case cart should be picked for a case. He'll also discuss common errors, and explain how these errors negatively affect the department.  ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo  

Every day, we push, pull, lift, and strain to position our patients for their procedures. We routinely tuck arms with draw sheets to allow practitioners closer access to the surgical field, but the products and the methods we use to pad and protect our patients don’t always provide the protection we would like them to. On this exciting Vendor Spotlight, we speak with David Gomez, CRNA and CEO, CTO of Infinitus Medical Technologies, LLC., about the many ways his company is evolving patient positioning for everyone in the OR. Their positioning solutions are designed to facilitate highly reliable workflow processes for staff needed to reduce ergonomic effort and positioning variability. His products have led to improved efficiency and performance, while serving to reduce common workarounds that impact positioning efficacy and safety. Tune in to learn more about the different positioning systems Infinitus Medical Technologies offers, and learn how they can benefit both your patie

This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN co-host of the First Case podcast and founder of Alpha Consulting Group, Inc. where he talks about common leadership errors he has seen over decades of perioperative consulting: "I am still learning new things, and I carry the lessons I have learned throughout my career with me.  Circumstances will always vary, but let me share with you a few things that I have learned...." ------- Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo