First Case Podcast: Recent Episodes

First Case Podcast

Clock in, scrub up, and join us behind the red line. We are First Case – an operating room podcast bringing you exciting interviews, engaging discussions, and innovative solutions that are changing the way patients receive surgical care. Each episode we talk to frontline staff, perioperative leadership, and nursing entrepreneurs from across the country as they share their stories, experience and expertise on an industry we love.

From the back table to the board room, from wheels in to wheels out. -- we tackle the real-life issues affecting the OR. Whether you’re tuning in for surgical service education or inspiration, we’re glad you're here. And now, it’s time to roll back, and start the First Case…

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The OR sees one thing. Infection Prevention reports another. So who's right? In this episode of "Silo-Free Surgery," hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Trey Morrow are joined by infection prevention expert Emily Barnard to tackle one of the trickier parts of SSI surveillance: PATOS, or "present at time of surgery." Emily breaks down the difference between clinical and surveillance definitions, why the right documentation matters, and how seemingly small details in the operative note can make all the difference in accurate SSI reporting. From wound classification to the very specific language behind PATOS criteria, this conversation shows why OR and IP teams need a shared understanding of what they're seeing and documenting. If PATOS has ever caused confusion in your facility, this conversation is for you!

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #PATOS #SurgicalSafety #Documentation #Reporting

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Every surgical procedure depends on a reliable barrier between clinicians and patients, but is every glove designed to deliver the same level of protection? On this week's First Case Vendor Spotlight™, Rachel Dalton, MSN, RN, CPPS, Global Manager of Medical Affairs at Cardinal Health™, discusses how the Protexis™ Surgical Glove Portfolio is helping OR teams stay ahead of evolving best practices around glove changing, double-gloving, and latex-free surgical environments. With features like Neu-Thera™ coating, independent thumb design, and interlocking beaded cuffs, the Protexis™ Portfolio helps support comfort, dexterity, and reliable protection throughout every procedure. From product innovation to hands-on clinical support, discover how Cardinal Health™ is helping OR teams build confidence in every layer of protection.

Interested in bringing the Protexis™ Surgical Gloves Portfolio to your facility? Connect with your Cardinal Health™ sales representative or visit their website to request free samples, access CE courses, white papers, additional resources, and more. Plus, be sure to check out their previous Vendor Spotlight™ episodes featuring the Protexis™ Portfolio for even more insights. Tune in today!

Tune in to previous Vendor Spotlight™ episodes here:

Fits Like a Glove: The Performance & Protection of Latex-Free Gloves – Listen Here!

Caring for the Hands that Heal: Identifying the Impact of High-Quality Surgical Gloves - Listen Here!

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Every day, healthcare teams rely on IFUs to get the job done. But how often do we stop to think about how they actually come together? In this week's special season co-release episode, Garrett Hollembeak sits down with Alpa Patel to take a closer look at why manufacturers' instructions for use play such an important role in preventing surgical site infections. Drawing on decades of experience in reprocessing validation, Alpa explains how IFUs are developed, why they don't always fit real clinical workflows, and what manufacturers can learn from the frontline teams using them every day. If you've ever found yourself asking, "Why does the IFU say that?" or "Who writes these things?" this episode has the answers!

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #IFU #SSI #Prevention #Validation #InstrumentReprocessing #Workflows

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The pace may be different, but the goal is exactly the same: delivering safe surgical care. In this week's special season co-release episode, we talk with Carlene Smith about what surgical site infection prevention looks like in ambulatory surgery centers. As someone who's worked in Sterile Processing, Infection Prevention, and the OR, Carlene shares her unique perspective on the challenges ASC teams face every day. From balancing limited resources and shared responsibilities to identifying small gaps before they become bigger problems, she discusses how ASC teams can stay proactive while keeping patient safety at the center of every workflow. No matter where surgical care happens, this conversation is a reminder that infection prevention starts with strong teamwork.

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SterileProcessing #Collaboration #AmbulatorySurgeryCenter #ASC

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Could the biggest opportunities to prevent surgical site infections (SSIs) be the ones you've stopped noticing? In this week's special season co-release episode, Garrett Hollembeak sits down with Crystal Heishman for a conversation about seeing SSI prevention through a different lens. With experience spanning Infection Prevention, Sterile Processing, and the Operating Room, Crystal shares how stronger collaboration can help teams identify risks before they affect patient safety. She explains why spending time in the OR, asking thoughtful questions, and understanding workflows builds trust, uncovers hidden opportunities for improvement, and helps teams focus on process deviations -- not "gotcha" moments. If stronger collaboration starts with stronger conversations, this episode offers practical ideas you can take back to your next huddle.

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SterileProcessing #Collaboration #Trust #ProcessImprovement #Podcast

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What keeps you up at night when it comes to preventing surgical site infections (SSIs)? In this week's special season co-release episode, Jeremy Gibson-Roark returns to join hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Lindsey Joyce for a conversation about moving from reactive investigations to proactive prevention. Together, they explore why infection prevention plans should be living documents, how stronger collaboration between OR and IP teams uncovers risks before they become problems, and why some of the best ideas come from simply asking frontline teams the right questions. If preventing SSIs starts with working together, this conversation shows how stronger partnerships can lead to safer patient care!

If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, tune in here: http://traffic.libsyn.com/firstcase/TC_Ep5_1.mp3

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #Prevention #Education #Podcast

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Why is it so difficult to trace a surgical site infection (SSI) back to one clear cause? On this special season co-release episode of First Case and Transmission Control, hosts Garrett Hollembeak and Lindsey Joyce are joined by Jeremy Gibson-Roark for an honest conversation about what really happens when an SSI investigation begins. Together, they explore why infection investigations are rarely straightforward, how OR, IP, and SP departments each hold a piece of the puzzle, and why breaking down silos is essential to finding meaningful answers. As the first episode of this special collaborative season, this conversation lays the foundation for understanding SSI reduction as a shared responsibility, not something one department can tackle alone. Tune in today!

Make sure to follow First Case and Transmission Control on your favorite podcast app, LinkedIn, and Facebook so you never miss an episode!

#FirstCase #TransmissionControl #OperatingRoom #InfectionPrevention #SiloFreeSurgery #SSI #SSIInvestigation #Podcast

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Every great podcast has a voice that brings each conversation to life. Over the past five years, Melanie Perry has been that voice for First Case. In this special release episode of the First Case Podcast, we celebrate Melanie's incredible journey as host, reflecting on the stories, guests, and moments that made this podcast such a valuable resource for the perioperative community. Joined by Justin Poulin and Garrett Hollembeak, Melanie looks back on where it all began, shares what's next in her own journey, and offers a heartfelt thank you to the listeners and colleagues who have been part of it all. As one chapter closes and another begins, join us in celebrating Melanie's lasting impact on First Case and the exciting future ahead for the podcast!

#FirstCase #PerioperativeEducation #ThankYouMelanie #Education #Podcast #SpecialRelease

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Even the best systems have moments when things go wrong. What matters most is how we respond.

In the Season 19 finale of Sterile Processing 101, Jen Parrott returns to discuss what happens when things go wrong like wet packs, missing instruments, failed indicators, delays, and breakdowns in the process.

This episode is a powerful reminder that solving problems requires more than urgency. It requires communication, accountability, and a culture focused on improvement instead of blame. Because when the OR and SPD work together, setbacks become opportunities to build safer systems for every patient.

Don't miss the final episode of Season 19!

#operatingroom #ornurse #sterileprocessing #scrubtech

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How much thought do we really give to packaging… until something goes wrong?

In today's interview, we explore the often-overlooked world of storage, shelf life, and event-related sterility with Malinda Elammari, CEO of Crown Point Consulting.

From blue wrap and rigid containers to peel packs and transport practices, this episode breaks down why packaging is far more than a wrapper. In reality, it's a critical part of protecting sterility and patient safety. Listen now and discover why packaging matters!

#operatingroom #sterileprocessing #ornurse #scrubtech

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How do you know the tray you just opened is truly ready for your patient?

In Episode 6 of Sterile Processing 101, we sit down with Adam Okada to take a closer look at the indicators, tape, filters, and packaging features that communicate critical sterility information before instruments ever reach the field. Join us as we discuss what these indicators do, what they don't tell us, and why the OR team is the final line of defense before those instruments are used on a patient.

#operatingroom #sterileprocessing #ornurse #scrubtech

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In this week's episode, we take a practical look at the science behind sterilization with Bobby Parker from Beyond Clean. From steam cycles to low-temperature, this episode breaks down the different ways instruments are processed and discusses why each method matters.

You're also going to gain a clearer understanding of indicators, sterility assurance, and why sterilization takes more time than many realize. But the more we understand the process, the better we can support patient safety and workflow efficiency.

#operatingroom #sterileprocessing #ornurse #scrubtech

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How reliable is the tray you open every day?

In today's episode, we step into inspection and assembly where cleaned instruments are tested, examined, and built into the trays your OR depends on.

This conversation with Kevin Anderson highlights why tray assembly is about far more than checking off a count sheet. From instrument function testing and damaged equipment to borescopes, insulation testing, and missing items, this episode reveals the science behind building a dependable tray.

Listen now and gain a new appreciation for the work that happens before the tray reaches your back table.

#operatingroom #nurse #scrubtech #sterileprocessing

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What really happens after your case cart leaves the OR?

To find out, we're diving into decontam to discover the critical next step in the instrument reprocessing lifecycle. From point-of-use treatment to manual and mechanical cleaning, this episode unpacks what it actually takes to get instruments safe, clean, and ready for the next patient.

Joined by Julie Gorog, OR nurse and Clinical Education Consultant with Advanced Sterilization Products, we explore why cleaning is the most crucial step in reprocessing, how biofilm forms faster than you think, and what OR teams can do to set sterile processing up for success.

Because what happens after the case directly impacts the next one. So tune in to learn more!

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #sterileprocessing

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What happens to your instruments during the case matters more than you think.

In this interview with Mike Matthews, we break down point-of-use treatment and why sterile processing actually starts in the OR, not decontam.

From biofilm risk to instrument damage, this episode highlights how small actions during a case have big downstream consequences.

This episode challenges the "not my problem" mindset and reinforces a critical truth: 𝗣𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁-𝗼𝗳-𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 - 𝗶𝘁'𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹.

#operatingroom #ornurse #sterileprocessing #scrubtech

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Welcome to a new season of the First Case podcast - Sterile Processing 101! We're kicking off the season with a conversation that sets the foundation for the entire series and challenges a big misconception:

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻'𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗺… 𝗶𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝗥.

In this conversation with Jen Parrott, we introduce the full instrument reprocessing lifecycle and explore why understanding this process is essential for every OR nurse, and how it affects everything from patient safety to workflow efficiency.

Tune in to the premiere and start seeing the bigger picture!

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #podcast #sterileprocessing

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What do the plaque on your teeth, soap scum, and slippery rocks down by the creek all have in common? They're all examples of biofilm! But these aren't the only places that biolfims can form – they can also be found on our surgical instruments and inside our bodies. Joining us today to talk about all things biofilm is Mike Matthews, Director of Customer Education at Agiliti. In this interview, we'll discover how biofilm forms, the ways in which it can cause infection, and what we can do in the Operating Room to help prevent it. Stay tuned!

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 #perioperative #infectionprevention #safesurgery #biofilm

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General surgery is where many perioperative nurses begin their OR journey. It's one of the most diverse and foundational specialties in the operating room, touching everything from colorectal and thyroid cases to breast, abdominal, and head & neck procedures.

In this First Case Articles-On-The-Go, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR breaks down the Top 10 things OR teams should know about general surgery - from being ready to convert laparoscopic cases to open, to understanding patient positioning, implants, ERAS protocols, hemostatic agents, and proper drain management.

Whether you're new to the OR or just need a refresher, this episode highlights why versatility, preparation, and attention to detail are essential in one of surgery's broadest specialties.


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 #generalsurgery #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech

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How long can pathogens live on a surface? What is the likelihood that we are transferring organisms from surfaces we touch to our patients or to our family members? Joining us today to discuss microbiology and infection prevention is Dr. Wava Truscott, Director of Regulatory Affairs and clinical Education at Shield Technology, Inc. Learn with us as Wava discusses environmental contamination, pathogens that we see in our hospitals, disinfectants, and small colony variants. Don't miss this interview!

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 #perioperative #infectionprevention #safesurgery

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What is the MAUDE Database, and what does it have to do with the Operating Room? Answering this question and connecting the dots for us today is Dr. Larry Muscarella, PhD, President and Principal at LFM Healthcare Solutions, LLC. Tune in as we dive into the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) Database, as we discuss medical devices like gastroscopes and flexible endoscopes and find out what the guidelines say about their proper care and cleaning.

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 #perioperative #infectionprevention #safesurgery

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Organ procurement and transplant surgeries are among the most unique and emotionally powerful cases the OR team may encounter. And while they may not happen often, or in every facility, when they do occur, preparation, collaboration, and advocacy matter more than ever.

In this First Case Articles-On-The-Go, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, walks through the Top 10 things perioperative teams should know about organ procurement and transplant, from understanding the role of visiting procurement teams and honoring donor consent, to managing complex multi-team procedures and the intense coordination required for life-saving transplants.

Tune in to discover how to prepare for the organ procurement and transplant procedures.


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 #transplant #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech

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What simple, everyday actions are derailing your infection prevention program? Tune in to this discussion with Erica Smith, Surgical Solutions Manager at Henry Schein Medical as we discuss 4 common missteps in Infection Prevention. We'll discuss how 4, "simple" actions can have significant impact on the health of our patients, and Erica will provide insight into the ways that we can improve. 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 Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#operatingroom #surgery #podcast #perioperative #infectionprevention #safesurgery

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Cardiac surgery is definitely its own specialty, and not all perioperative professionals are familiar with the CVOR. But we're all familiar with the fundamentals of infection prevention. Here to highlight the specifics of infection prevention in cardiac surgery is Ruth Statchura, MBA, RN, Vice President of Business Development at C Change Surgical. In this episode, we'll discuss some of the common areas of infection risk, how we can avoid increasing those risks, and we'll uncover the changes in cardiac surgery that are improving patient outcomes. Tune in now!

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 #perioperative #infectionprevention #CVOR #safesurgery #CardiacSurgery

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When seconds matter and the unexpected becomes routine, trauma teams rise to the challenge. In this First Case Articles On-The-Go: Top 10 Trauma Surgery, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, highlights the foundational principles every perioperative professional should understand when facing trauma.

From constant readiness and mastering Massive Transfusion Protocols to supporting anesthesia, coordinating multi-specialty teams, and preparing for both lifesaving intervention and end-of-life care, trauma surgery demands adaptability, precision, and true teamwork. Whether you work in a designated trauma center or a facility that only occasionally sees critical injuries, preparation is essential because trauma can happen anytime, anywhere.

This episode offers a practical starting point to strengthen your trauma readiness and reinforce the collaborative mindset required to deliver the best possible outcomes when it matters most.

#operatingroom #traumasurgery #ornurse #scrub #scrubtech #perioperative

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As we wrap Season 18 of First Case, we turn the spotlight to the role that keeps everything moving behind the scenes: the Clinical Coordinator.

In our final episode, Rod McArdle of Boston Children's Hospital shares how clinical coordinators balance scheduling, staffing, equipment, and real-time problem solving to keep surgical care running safely and efficiently. From anticipating equipment conflicts to coordinating with SPD, surgeons, and frontline teams, they are coordinating the moving pieces, communicating across teams, and thinking five steps ahead so the rest of us can focus on the patient in front of us.

This episode brings our entire season full circle, highlighting the teamwork required across departments to make surgery happen every day.

#operatingroom #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #surgery #clinicalcoordinator

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Caring for pediatric surgical patients requires more than simply adapting adult practices. It demands a specialized, family-centered approach. In this First Case: Articles On-The-Go episode, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, walks through essential fundamentals every perioperative nurse should know, from maintaining a warm OR and using weight-based medication dosing to protecting delicate skin, preparing for malignant hyperthermia, and partnering closely with child life specialists.

The episode also highlights the emotional side of pediatric care, supporting not just the child, but the parents, while emphasizing the importance of communication, trust, and pediatric-specific competencies like PALS and NRP. Whether you work in a large children's hospital, community facility, or ASC, this practical Top 10 is a strong foundation for delivering safe, compassionate care to our smallest patients.

#operatingroom #pediatrics #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery

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"Where are your trays?"

Few phrases spike stress levels faster, and often, all eyes turn to the person in the red hat. But what really happens behind the scenes before those trays ever reach your back table?

In this powerful Operation: Collaboration episode, we pull back the curtain with medical device regional sales manager Bruce Finney to reveal the real world of vendor reps: high-pressure preparation, complex logistics, split-second problem solving, and the constant balance of being both essential to the team and still a guest in the room.

From implants and instrumentation to communication breakdowns and OR realities, this conversation will change how you see the role of the rep and why true surgical success depends on collaboration from everyone involved.

Listen now and step into the OR from the other side of the red hat.

#operatingroom #ornurse #vendor #scrubtech #surgery #collaboration

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This week, we're stepping outside the OR and into the world of Facilities, the department quietly powering everything from air and water to electricity, pressure, and environmental safety. Without them, surgeries simply don't happen.

Join us as we talk with seasoned facilities consultant Kathy Neal about how Facilities' teams keep the surgical environment safe, compliant, and running through power outages, HVAC challenges, regulatory demands, and even natural disasters. This conversation is a powerful reminder that collaboration across departments is what truly makes patient care possible.

Tune in to learn more about the team working behind the walls, above the ceilings, and beneath the floors.

#operatingroom #collaboration #surgery #ornurse #scrubtech

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We might not be celebrating Perioperative Nurses Week this week, but we've always got time to shine a spotlight on perioperative nursing.

In this week's Articles On-The-Go, Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR shares her own journey into perioperative nursing. From thinking the ICU was her forever home to finding unexpected inspiration in the operating room, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the path we don't plan is the one that fits us best.

Whether you took a traditional route, jumped straight into the OR, or are still figuring out where you belong, this one's for you. Come along with Lindsey and reflect on what sparked your own curiosity and why you chose the OR.

#operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #scrubtech

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Have you ever wondered what really happens behind the 'black door' between the OR and pharmacy? 👀💊

In this week's First Case interview, we sit down with Zahara, an experienced inpatient pharmacist from San Diego, to uncover the unseen work that keeps surgical care safe and moving. From medication shortages and regulatory compliance to constant audits, refills, and real-time problem solving, Zahara shares how pharmacy and the OR intersect every single day, and why better communication can remove barriers and protect patients on both sides of the red line.

#operatingroom #ornurse #pharmacy #scrub #scrubtech

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This week our Operation: Collaboration season continues with a deep dive into the often-unseen world of the Lab. In this episode, former laboratory associate supervisor turned OR nurse Anna Goodman bridges both sides of the specimen cup, breaking down cultures versus permanents, demystifying frozen sections, and explaining how real-time communication between the OR, pathology, and blood bank can directly shape surgical decisions and patient outcomes. From "deli slicer" histology humor to the critical role of accurate labeling and coordination, this conversation highlights just how intertwined every department is when it comes to delivering safe, timely care.

#operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #laboratory #scrubtech #nurse

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Sterile processing doesn't run on magic, despite what we may sometimes think. In today's interview, we're joined by Angela Benson, a sterile processing education specialist, to talk about what really happens to our instruments long before they ever reach the back table.

From decontamination and assembly to sterilization, documentation, and case cart build, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the complex, detail-driven work that makes surgery possible. We also dive into common points of miscommunication, misconceptions about SPD, and how simple things, like better communication, pre-treatment, and mutual respect, can make a huge difference for teams on both sides of the red line.

#operatingroom #ornurse #sterileprocessing #scrubtech #surgery

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Perfect imaging every time. No repairs. No reprocessing. Could single-use arthroscopes be the answer? On this special Beyond Clean, First Case, Power Supply, and Transmission Control Vendor Spotlight™ co-release episode, we're joined by Rich McKillop, CEO of Pristine Surgical, to explore how their Summit™ 4K Single-Use Arthroscope is redefining what efficiency looks like in the OR. Learn how this single-use solution delivers consistent 4K image clarity while eliminating the time, labor, and costs associated with scope reprocessing and repairs. Through smart, cloud-connected technology that delivers real-time data and case analytics, discover how Pristine Surgical can help your department optimize workflows, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes!

Learn more about Pristine Surgical's single-use arthroscopy solutions by visiting pristinesurgical.com. To access the cost savings calculator, schedule a demonstration, or learn more about Pristine Connect®, email info@pristinesurgical.com or follow them on LinkedIn.

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Radiology is one of those departments that we rely on every single day in the OR, but don't always stop to think about how much coordination is required for our two departments to work together. In this second episode of Operation: Collaboration, we sit down with April Hughes, a radiologic technologist, to explore how radiology supports surgical care before, during, and after the procedure.

From juggling limited C-arms and tracking constantly changing schedules to the importance of real-time communication between departments, this conversation is a reminder that safe, efficient surgical care truly depends on teamwork beyond the red line. Tune in to learn more!

#operatingroom #ornurse #radiology #scrubtech #radtech #nurse #surgery

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What does a canceled flight have in common with a canceled surgical case? More than you might think.

In today's article, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR shares a personal travel story that unexpectedly reframed how she thinks about case cancellations by seeing them through the patient's perspective. Through delays, rebookings, confusion, and loss of control, she draws a powerful parallel between airline disruptions and the very real emotional, financial, and logistical impact a canceled case can have on patients and their families.

This article is a timely reminder that while a cancellation may feel like a brief pause or even a coffee break for staff, it can be a major disruption for the patient. Clear communication, empathy, and transparency matter more than we sometimes realize.


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 #ornurse #scrubtech

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We're kicking off Season 18 of First Case with a topic that impacts every single case we run, but doesn't always get the spotlight it deserves: supply chain. In this season premiere, we're joined by Gary Skinner of Discover S3 Consulting to talk about what really happens behind the scenes to make surgery possible.

From onboarding new surgeons and managing backorders to building trust, improving communication, managing expectations, and keeping the mission focused on the patient, this conversation makes one thing clear: when supply chain and the OR aren't aligned, everyone feels it. If you've ever scrambled for missing supplies, dealt with last-minute surprises, or wondered how these gaps could be avoided, this episode is for you.

#operatingroom #supplychain #surgery #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech

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“You can’t cover your back table!” or can you? 🤔

For years, many of us were taught that covering a back table was never allowed. But AST and AORN guidelines say otherwise, as long as it’s done correctly.

Join Melanie Perry and Chris Blevins as they kick off a brand-new season of First Case by busting this long-standing myth. They’ll dive into when covering a back table is appropriate, how to do it safely, and why understanding the why behind the practice matters for every surgical team.

Tune in to the Season 17 premiere now!

#operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #podcast #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

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Surgeons are often seen as unshakable figures in the OR, but behind the scalpel lies a human story of triumphs, challenges, and compassion.

In today's Articles on the Go, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, reviews Brain and Heart: The Triumphs and Struggles of a Pediatric Neurosurgeon by Dr. David Sandberg. From high-stakes neurosurgeries to medical mission trips, this memoir offers an inspiring look into the realities of pediatric surgery—and the humanity that drives 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!

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #perioperative

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The most common type of violence in the healthcare setting is violence from patients, families, or visitors toward healthcare staff. In today’s interview, we’re addressing this important topic and discussing how it relates to the surgical setting with JD Buchert, Director of Workforce Safety at Parkland Health in Dallas, TX. Join us as we discuss the sobering reality of violence toward healthcare workers, learn the statistics, and find out how JD is educating and advocating for healthcare workers as the “Nurse’s Nurse.” Don’t miss it!

#operatingroom #ORNurse #nurse #workplaceviolence #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #healthcareworker

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Establishing new policies and procedures for centralization can help you ensure that your organization is prepared for a successful future. Find out why it's important to have policies and procedures that are specific to centralization in today's Expert Series On-The-Go! with Bryan Stuart.

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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How clean is the air in your OR? Do you know what you’re breathing in during cases that generate surgical smoke? On today’s interview we’re speaking with Kim Tuemler, OR Nurse and founder of Wylie-Tuemler OR Nurse Consulting about the dangers of surgical smoke. Join us as Kim shares how she learned about the risks of inhaling surgical smoke and find out what she did about it. Today’s interview will inspire you to find your voice and realize that it IS possible to make a difference and bring change to your facility and your state.

You can read Kim's article here! https://www.thenursingbeat.com/articles/surgical-smoke-dangers-in-the-or

#operatingroom #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #advocacy #nurseadvocacy

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We’ve got a treat in store for you today! Lindsey Joyce is back in the studio with Chris Blevins and Melanie Perry to uncover the exciting, but sometimes gruesome, history of surgery. Today’s conversation will make you wince as you learn about the alarming experiences of patients having surgery prior to anesthesia. You’ll cringe when you discover the chilling extent of bloodletting practices. And you’ll finish this Special Release episode thankful that you are alive in the 21st century. Get ready to go back into the past with the First Case team and learn about the history of surgery!

If you're interested in reading the book that was discussed in this episode, you can find The Empire of the Scalpel by Ira Rutkow here: https://a.co/d/dyEKqi4

#operatingroom #historyofsurgery #surgery #halloween #podcast #perioperative #ornurse #nurse #surgicaltech #scrubtech

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What are the critical logistics to consider when planning for centralization? In today's episode, Bryan shares 5 crucial aspects of planning that cannot be overlooked. Tune in now!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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“What does my preference card say?” How many times have we been asked that question? How often have our preference cards not been up-to-date and we’ve pulled the wrong instrument, medication, or supply? Preference cards are a often a source of frustration in our Operating Rooms, but they don’t have to be! In today’s interview, we dive into the details of preference cards with Jen Nichols, Senior Clinical Consultant at Cardinal Health. Tune in to find out how many different departments one preference card can affect, and be reminded of the one person most affected by accurate or inaccurate preference cards. Don’t miss this interview!

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 #Perioperative #ORNurse #PreferenceCards #PrefCards #ScrubTech #surgicaltechnologist #nurse

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When determining the size of the sterile storage area, what elements should be considered? In today's episode, Bryan shares three insights that can instruct how to set up a storage system with accurate space estimations to meet your facility’s needs. Tune in now to learn more!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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Have you experienced a sharps injury, and did you report it after it happened? Joining us today to discuss all things sharps safety is Kristine Little, an OR Nurse from North Carolina and consultant/nurse educator for Clicksmart. In today’s episode, we’re going to uncover the realities and prevalence of sharps injuries, find out what AORN, AST, and OSHA have to say about sharps safety, and also discuss ways to prevent injury. Stay tuned!

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 #Perioperative #ORNurse #SharpsSafety #SharpsInjury #Needlestick #ScrubTech #surgicaltechnologist #nurse

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"Accurately calculating instrument utilization, processing times, and inventory levels can help manage a health system effectively. However, making these sound decisions is only as good as the data used to make them. 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗰𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗮, 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘂𝗻𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗸𝘀 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻." Find out more about the importance of good data in today's episode with Bryan!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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When you need blood during an emergency, do you know how to order it? Do you know the different blood products that are available for your patient? In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Lindsey Joyce, CVOR nurse and First Case content creator to learn more about the many blood products available for use during surgery. Whether you’re dealing with a scheduled case or an emergency situation, tune in to learn about the blood products that are used and how to be prepared. We’ll also learn about the history of using blood in surgery and find out who performed the first blood transfusion. Don’t miss today’s 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 #Perioperative #ORNurse #Communication #ScrubTech #surgicaltechnologist #nurse

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"A purpose-built, offsite facility to service multiple medical centers can help to save healthcare institutions money, as opposed to building or expanding on-premises facilities." In today's episode, Bryan shares how surgical instrument centralization can be a compelling investment with largescale cost-savings over time. Tune in to find out more!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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It’s time to Huddle Up - and get ready for the Season 13 Premier of First Case! This season is dedicated to covering all those safety topics you might hear covered quickly in a morning meeting or in more detail in a staff meeting, and Chris and Melanie are going to keep you learning all season long! In today’s episode, Chris teaches us a new way to look at the acronym S.I.D.S. (Seal, Indicator, Date, Strikethrough) and outlines the steps for opening sterile items. We’re also going to highlight the benefits of a morning huddle and show you why it’s so important to communicate with your team. Don’t miss this exciting start to Season 13!

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 #Perioperative #ORNurse #Communication #ScrubTech #surgicaltechnologist #nurse

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Surgical smoke is the dangerous byproduct of the energy-generating devices used in surgical procedures. During laparoscopic cases, surgical smoke must be removed to maintain field of vision and to protect patients and staff from exposure, but how do you evacuate surgical smoke and still maintain the pressure needed for the laparoscopic procedure? We’re going to find out in today’s First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Paul Fowler, Director of Engineering, and Calvin Hersom, Sales Trainer at Northgate Technologies, Inc. (NTI). In this exciting discussion, we’ll uncover the risks of exposure to surgical smoke, discuss the realities of smoke evacuation, and learn about a safer, more efficient system for the operation room – the Nebulae® SRS.

The Nebulae® SRS is a quiet, closed-loop laparoscopic smoke removal device that maintains the pneumoperitoneum, removes surgical smoke and 99.999% of contaminants, while also reducing your CO2 gas usage. This allows the surgical case to move forward without pauses for reinsufflation, for smoke to clear, or for staff to change CO2 tanks.​

Northgate Technologies, Inc. is a worldwide leader in the design and production of minimally invasive software controlled medical devices. Their high-quality products have been enhancing clinical performance, providing safe surgical environments, and reducing costs in healthcare for over 30 years. To learn more about the Nebulae® SRS, you can call (847)608-8900, email sales@ntisurgical.com, or visit their website at www.ntisurgical.com. You can also follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook!

#operatingroom #surgicalsmoke #laparoscopy #surgeon #ornurse #scrubtech #perioperative #vendorspotlight #podcast

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"Centralization requires a team with the right combination of expertise and experience to advance the process with speed, accuracy, and efficiency." In today's episode, Bryan shares how to identify the right personnel for your team - Tune in to find out!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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How often have you been asked to apply abdominal pressure during a colonoscopy? This practice isn’t just tough on the team—it also poses serious risks to both the staff and the patient. Join us in this First Case Vendor SpotlightTM as we learn about colonoscopies and as we explore the very real dangers of manually applying abdominal pressure. In this eye-opening conversation, James Hathorn, CEO and Founder of ColoWrap®, highlights a common complicating factor in colonoscopy, scope looping, that results in up to 1 in 3 procedures that either aren’t completed or are completed while putting the patient and caregiver at risk. Plus, discover the only safe, proven looping solution on the market that is non-invasive and easy to use. ColoWrap® was developed by a high-volume clinical gastroenterologist and is the first clinical solution to mitigate the need for manual abdominal pressure during colonoscopy. ColoWrap® improves throughput, reduces cecal intubation time, and empowers organizations to deliver a safer environment for patients, staff, and providers. To learn more about ColoWrap®, go to www.colowrap.com/firstcase. You can also follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn! #operatingroom #colonoscopy #vendorspotlight #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #endoscopy

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As health systems move to reprocess at a centralized location, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲-𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. There are also considerations for logistics that impact the typical 5-6 hours required to reprocess an instrument set. Current inventory levels may need to be augmented and in today's episode, 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘀. Bryan also shares some important questions to consider as you think about your inventory needs. Tune in now!

💡In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert 𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁, 𝗖𝗖𝗦𝗩𝗣, 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗽. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


💡𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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In this 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 of First Case, we sit down with Connie Hall, Endoscopy Supervisor at the University of Missouri, to learn more about colonoscopies and to uncover a serious risk to patients and staff. Tune in as Connie discusses how colonoscopies have evolved during her 35+ years in healthcare, including equipment advancements and shifts in patient demographics. We'll also learn about the challenges associated with applying manual pressure, including patient complications like bruising or even a ruptured spleen, and also staff injuries including wrist and back pain. From difficult patient cases to the importance of proper training and listening to patients, Connie brings her wealth of experience to light in this informative episode. Tune in now to learn more!

#operatingroom #ornurse #endoscopy #colonoscopy #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #surgery #podcast

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As health systems strive to improve quality and value for their communities, they may face the dueling conflict of meeting individual surgeon needs while supporting system goals for standardization and economies of scale. This tension can be particularly acute when it comes to preference items, which are the vendor-specific supplies and equipment surgeons want to use in their cases.

Tune in as Bryan answers the question, "How can health systems strike the right balance between surgeon preference and standardization?"


In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert Bryan Stuart, CCSVP, National Director of Sterile Supply Solutions at Aesculap. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.


𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟮-𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝗧𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀! In this weekly series we're learning from industry expert Bryan Stuart, CCSVP, National Director of Sterile Supply Solutions at Aesculap. Bryan has over 30 years of experience in the medical field and 13 years of operational experience in an FDA-regulated environment as a third party processor of surgical linens and instrumentation. From this, Bryan has developed keen insights into commercially managed reprocessing facilities. For the last 8 years, Bryan has provided consulting services to hospitals to improve processes and instrument tray streamlining. His solutions are driven by hands-on set reviews and data-driven solutions bringing the clinical and processing teams together for a mutually beneficial rationalization of instrument trays and process improvements.

Follow along as Bryan discusses the ways that centralizing SPD services helps reduce inefficiencies and provide economies of scale that can produce significant cost savings and better care. To start the conversation, Bryan answers the question, "What's driving the era of surgical instrument centralization?" Tune in now to find out!


𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗻-𝘁𝗵𝗲-𝗚𝗼 presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #instrumentcentralization #sterileprocessing

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With the Covid pandemic still fresh in our minds, we can all remember the daily struggle for supplies. But it doesn’t take a pandemic to empty our supplies. In this final episode of Season 12, we’re speaking with Suzi Collins, Director of Supply Chain Analytics for Banner Health, and we’re going to discover the inner workings of Supply Chain. How does a tornado in Memphis, TN, affect hospitals in Arizona? How many supplies are routinely kept in stock in our facilities? Can hospitals share resources in the event of an emergency? We’ll find out the answers to all these questions and more in today’s conversation. Tune in now!

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 #survival #disasterpreparedness #supplychain #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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Do you know where your Downtime Forms are located? Do you know how recently they were updated? Joining us today to discuss Cyber Attacks and the importance of having a comprehensive plan in place to address initial downtime communication is Carmel Pound and Niesan Emara. Using both real-world and hypothetical examples, Carmel and Niesan make the case for the importance of including downtime training in your disaster preparedness plan. Tune in to learn how hospitals can be prepared for a cyber attack, what immediate steps to take in the event of an attack, and how you can be prepared personally as well.

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 #disasterpreparedness #CyberAttack #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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It's our final installment of our Expert Series On-The-Go series with Asset Recovery Expert Ashley Jackson! We're wrapping up the series with a final look at lifecycle management and discovering the benefits of reselling and recycling.

"Overall, asset resale and recycling are key strategies for healthcare organizations looking to improve their bottom line, reduce waste and provide better care to patients." It's a win-win! Tune in to learn more!

------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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Who keeps everything running smoothly at your facility when a disaster occurs? Find out on today's episode of First Case as we sit down with Josh Brackett, System Regulatory Director of Facilities Services at Banner Health. Josh will share his expertise on preparing for and mitigating disasters at the facilities level, emphasizing the critical role of the Facilities Department in emergency management. From daily challenges to handling unexpected events like natural disasters, cyber-attacks, and mass casualty incidents, Josh provides valuable insight into the essential work that keeps our healthcare facilities running smoothly. Tune in to learn more about the experts in the Facilities Department, find out what goes on behind-the-scenes, and discover how they ensure continuity of care in times of crisis.

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 #disasterpreparedness #Facilities #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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How can perioperative clinicians and supply chain work together to optimize supply consumption and documentation to support enhanced patient care? Find out in today’s Vendor Spotlight™ featuring Jen Nichols, BSN, RN, Clinical Consultant for Cardinal Health™ Presource® Solutions and Debbie Davis, Vice President of Product and Marketing Strategy for Cardinal Health™ WaveMark™ Solutions. We’ll highlight the common challenges associated with procedure cards and uncover the ways that procedure cards and custom packs can be optimized to eliminate waste, increase efficiencies, and drive savings.

As health systems seek ways to reduce waste, manage supply expenses, and ensure product availability, hear Cardinal Health™ Presource® and WaveMark™ Solutions experts share how perioperative leaders are empowered to work alongside Supply Chain to:

  • Help identify process improvements and ensure safety standard compliance
  • Consolidate procedural supplies, maximizing case pick process efficiency
  • Optimize packs and align with changing procedural needs
  • Generate insights with advanced analytics to optimize procedure cards

Reach out to your Cardinal Health™ representative for additional solutions to help drive efficiencies and innovation in the OR, or request more information on their website.

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #vendorspotlight #cardinalhealth #supplychain #efficiency #productivity

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"Decommissioning is clearly more than just getting rid of old equipment. It is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety, compliance of the equipment, as well as the protection of patient and facility data."

So what do you need to consider before you start hauling old, unused equipment to the curb? Find out in today's Expert Series On-The-Go with Asset Recovery Expert Ashley Jackson! ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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What happens if you find yourself in the middle of an emergency in the wilderness? Or what if a natural disaster forces you to leave your home? Dr. Glenn Barnes, associate clinical professor of nursing at UT Tyler, Tyler Texas, joins us today to address the unique training associated with Wilderness Medicine and Survival Training. Tune in to discover how he certifies nursing students in wilderness life support, hear his advice for everyday preparation, and find out the best thing you can have with you in any emergency situation. Don’t miss this interview!

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 #survival #disasterpreparedness #wildernesssurvival #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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Dive into a world of strategic collaboration, operational efficiency, and exciting improvements in healthcare delivery in this First Case Vendor Spotlight™ featuring Elke Jackson, RN, BSN, Director Perioperative Services, and Amanda Lucas, PhD, RN, Director of Quality and Sterile Processing at ECU Health. Discover how ECU Health navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, overcoming supply chain challenges and implementing new protocols to more effectively manage patient care.

In collaboration with Cardinal Health™, ECU Health’s primary distributor and kitting provider, the team executed a comprehensive pack review and inventory revamp. This effort to optimize efficiencies by standardizing SKUs across their operating rooms resulted in significant time, waste, and procedural savings. Tune in to hear more about ECU Health’s journey navigating industry-wide challenges, and their commitment to providing high-quality care to a traditionally underserved community. Plus, you’ll learn how strategic collaboration and a focus on efficiency can lead to remarkable improvements in healthcare delivery.

Cardinal Health™ Presource® Procedural Pack Solutions offers reliable, quality packs for various medical procedures. With more than 190,000 standard and 75,000 custom packs produced per day, you can count on Presource® Solutions to streamline the complexity of managing procedural supplies. Reach out to your Cardinal Health™ Presource® representative for additional solutions to help drive efficiencies and innovation in the OR, or request more information on their website.

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #cardinalhealth #podcast #vendorspotlight #presource #ProceduralPackSolutions

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Welcome to episode 10 of our Expert Series On-The-Go with Asset Recovery Expert Ashely Jackson! Today we're learning about equipment disposition and resale and the process of disposing of assets that are no longer needed or have reached the end of their useful lifespan. Tune in to discover one of the key benefits of asset redeployment! ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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What does it look like when there’s a code in the operating room? Do you feel confident in your ability to respond, or do you secretly hope that someone else will handle everything?

In today’s interview, we’re speaking with resuscitation expert Dr. Susan Davis, DNP, RN, EMT-P. Susan is the Resuscitation Manager at a healthcare system in Florida, a member of the Citizens Advisory Committee for the CPR Foundation, and Founder & CEO of Code Prep. Tune in as we discuss the common barriers in our departments and health systems that prevent consistent training, and find out the critical time frame for any code. We’ll also discuss the importance of regular and consistent hands-on training that helps build confidence and readies us to act in any emergency. 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 Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#operatingroom #codeblue #disasterpreparedness #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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What is the biggest challenge that hospital staff face in preparing for disasters? Find out today as we dive into the world of emergency management with Derek Trabon, Director of Emergency Management at the University of Texas at Austin. Derek shares his journey into disaster preparedness, recounts his experiences during the Ebola crisis in Texas, and offers valuable insights on educating future nursing professionals. Tune in as Derek offers his insights into the challenges of preparing hospital staff for emergency situations. And as an added bonus, Derek will also share his expert travel tips for staying safe and prepared - so don't miss it!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here belong solely to Derek Trabon and do not reflect the views of his employers, past or present.

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 #emergencymanagement #emergency #disasterpreparedness #disaster #ornurse #scrubtech #nurse #surgery

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Discover the world of robotic assisted surgery in this First Case Vendor Spotlight™ with Robbie George, Vice President of Surgical Services at Ballad Health. In this exciting episode, we’ll hear Robbie’s personal story of success with implementing and growing a robotics program, plus, we’ll discover how he used communication and education to overcome resistance to robotic surgery. We’ll explore the benefits to surgeons, including enhanced precision and ergonomics, as well as the advantages for patients, like faster recovery times and reduced complications. We’ll also highlight how Robbie and his team were able to make their processes more efficient and cost-effective by working with Cardinal Health™ to standardize their robotic surgery packs. Tune in today!

Cardinal Health™ Presource® Procedural Pack Solutions enables healthcare providers to deliver efficient and effective patient care. As the pioneer of procedural packs, Cardinal Health™ has a 40+ year legacy of developing custom solutions backed by expert clinical support. Cardinal Health™ Presource® is your trusted provider for improving efficiencies, optimizing outcomes and delivering data-driven insights.

Reach out to your Cardinal Health™ Presource® representative for additional solutions to help drive efficiencies and innovation in the OR, or request more information on their website.

#operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #scrubnurse #surgicaltechnologist #podcast #vendorspotlight #cardinalhealth

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In this 9th episode of our Expert Series On-The-Go with Asset Recovery Expert Ashely Jackson, we learn more about the integral parts of lifecycle management. Plus, Ashley will highlight how addressing these areas allows healthcare providers to improve their bottom line while still providing top-notch patient care. Tune in now! ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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How can we be prepared for mass casualty events, terrorist attacks, or natural disasters? What core competencies should we know so that we’re prepared when disaster strikes? Joining us today to talk all things disaster preparedness is Dr. Joanne Langan, Professor at St. Louis University, Valentine School of Nursing. In today’s conversation we’ll talk about the core competencies that make up the foundation of disaster nursing, we’ll learn how the tragic events of 9/11 influenced Dr. Langan’s passion for disaster training, and we’ll be challenged to assess the readiness of ourselves and our departments. Stay tuned!

Here's the link to check out the ICN's Core Competencies in Disaster Nursing! https://www.icn.ch/sites/default/files/inline-files/ICN_Disaster-Comp-Report_WEB.pdf

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 #disasterpreparedness #disasternursing #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #disaster #planning #preparation

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"Service reporting is more than routine paperwork; it's the lifeline of medical equipment maintenance and patient safety in healthcare facilities. In order to truly leverage this tool, standardizing the way Biomedical Engineering teams categorize equipment failures is crucial."

In this 8th episode of our series, Ashley explains why service reporting is so important, and outlines the reasons why standardizing failure codes can improve the accuracy of service reporting. Don't miss it! ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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What happens when disaster strikes? Do you know what your role is in an emergency? In today’s introductory episode of Season 12, First Case co-hosts Melanie and Chris kick off our season on Disaster Preparedness by sharing their own experiences of the unexpected. Tune in as Chris shares about her experience with Hurricane Harvey as the Medical Liaison for Ellis County, TX, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and as Melanie shares her own experience with a workplace shooting. There are lessons to be learned from each experience, and ways that we can learn and plan so that we’re prepared for any future event. Whether we find ourselves in the middle of a natural disaster or we’re involved in an act of violence, our preparation and readiness are what help us find success in any emergency situation. So, stay tuned for this exciting first episode of Season 12: Disaster Alert!

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 #Perioperative #DisasterPreparedness #EmergencyManagement #Emergency #Disaster #ORNurse #Scrubtech

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"With the high cost of medical equipment and the constant demand for new and innovative technologies, effective inventory management is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and value of these assets. By tracking and managing inventory in real-time, healthcare facilities can make informed decisions about when to repair, replace, or upgrade their equipment, ultimately helping to reduce costs and improve patient outcomes."

Tune in to episode 6 to learn more about the importance of inventory management and find out which individuals in our facilities are responsible for accurately tracking and managing the stock of goods, materials, and equipment in a healthcare facility. Tune in now! ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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"In an industry where time is of the essence and resources are often limited, effective project management can mean the difference between success and failure. Effective project management is essential in the field of medicine, where the stakes are high and the margin for error is small."

Tune in to episode 5 to discover how improper receiving and staging of equipment can lead to delays in treatment, decreased efficiency, and even adverse patient outcomes. ------- In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023. #operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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"Sourcing medical equipment and negotiating the best contract can be a daunting task for any healthcare organization. With so many options and factors to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, taking the time to carefully review the options and negotiate a fair and favorable deal can pay off in the long run. "

Tune in to episode 4 of our series to learn how investing in high-quality medical equipment and securing the best contract terms allows organizations to have the resources they need to provide the best possible patient care.


In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023.

#operatingroom #expertseries #assetrecovery #assetmanagement #perioperative #healthcare

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"Sourcing medical equipment and negotiating the best contract can be a daunting task for any healthcare organization. With so many options and factors to consider, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, taking the time to carefully review the options and negotiate a fair and favorable deal can pay off in the long run. "

Tune in to episode 4 of our series to learn how investing in high-quality medical equipment and securing the best contract terms allows organizations to have the resources they need to provide the best possible patient care.


In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023.

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"Cost of ownership in medical equipment extends beyond initial purchase. It encapsulates the hidden expenses of maintenance, upgrades, replacements, and service contracts, significantly influencing the bottom line. A crucial aspect of efficiently managing these costs is standardization in categorizing equipment failures..."

Tune in to episode 3 of our series to learn how standardizing failure code categorization, maintaining accurate service cost reporting, and effectively managing service contracts are integral parts of lifecycle management.

In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023.


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #assetmanagement #assetrecovery

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With opioid abuse on the rise, many surgical patients and healthcare providers are seeking non-pharmacological approaches to manage pain, anxiousness, and postoperative nausea and vomiting. What alternatives are available in the healthcare setting? In this refreshing Vendor SpotlightTM, join us as we discover the world of clinical aromatherapy with Melissa Vibberts, Director of Brand Management, and Laurel Flanagan, Clinical Product Specialist & Certified Aromatherapist with Elequil Aromatabs® aromatherapy by Beekley Medical®. We’ll discuss the physiological response our bodies have to aromatherapy and learn how Elequil’s clinical aromas provide a holistic solution as a nursing intervention that is tailored to ease anxiousness and queasiness in clinical settings.

Originally designed for patients getting an MRI, Elequil Aromatabs have organically expanded across hospitals, and have been used in over 2700 facilities nationwide. Additionally, independent clinical studies have underscored their effectiveness, validating the benefit of aromatherapy in medical settings. Made with 100% pure essential oils, Elequil Aromatabs offer targeted relief, enhancing patient comfort without disrupting the clinical environment.

For more information and to request free samples, visit www.beekley.com or email them at info@beekley.com. You can also follow them on LinkedIn!

#operatingroom #podcast #vendorspotlight #clinicalaromatherapy #aromatherapy

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"Service reporting is more than routine paperwork; it's the lifeline of medical equipment maintenance and patient safety in healthcare facilities. In order to truly leverage this tool, standardizing the way Biomedical Engineering teams categorize equipment failures is crucial."

Tune in to episode 2 of our series to hear more about service reporting from Ashley!

In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023.


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #assetmanagement #assetrecovery

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Is clinical aromatherapy the right choice for your surgical patient? In this final episode of Season 11, we’re joined by Melissa Vibberts, Director of Brand Management, and Laurel Flanagan, Clinical Product Specialist & Certified Aromatherapist with Elequil Aromatabs aromatherapy by Beekley Medical.

In this episode, Melissa and Laurel share their journeys into the world of aromatherapy, highlighting how they connected this practice with healthcare to enhance patient outcomes. Join us as they dive into the properties and uses of specific essential oils like lavender, peppermint, orange, and sandalwood, and as they discuss the 2018 Joint Commission mandate and ERAS protocols that support the integration of essential oils in clinical settings. We’ll also learn how essential oils are effective in reducing postoperative pain and alleviating queasiness and anxiousness in surgical patients.

As we continue "Going Beyond Opioids", this interview underscores the importance of implementing complementary, non-opioid modalities in surgical care that are backed by robust scientific research. Don’t miss this exciting conclusion to Season 11!

#operatingroom #painmanagement #clinicalaromatherapy #opioidcrisis #surgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech

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In this 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series, we're learning from industry expert Ashley Jackson, VP of Asset Management Solutions at Mazree. With several years of experience at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center as a Biomedical Engineering Manager, Ashley is a foremost expert in Asset Management. She now oversees the development and implementation of Mazree’s innovative and advanced Lifecycle Management CMMS product that launched in 2023.

Follow along as Ashley walks us through the asset management lifecycle, from budget forecasting and capital purchases to decommissioning, reselling, and recycling. And to start the conversation, Ashley answers the question, "Who cares?" in this first episode. Tune in now!


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative #assetmanagement #assetrecovery

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Bob Marley once said, “One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain.” Everyone can recognize the power that music has. We’re drawn to it emotionally and spiritually, but we can also be affected by it physiologically. In today’s interview with Dr. Alice Cash, CEO & Founder, Surgical Serenity Solutions, we’re going to uncover the many ways that music can benefit surgical patients. As a clinical musicologist and researcher, Dr. Alice has been studying the effects of music on the surgical patient for many years. Join us as Dr. Alice teaches us about the many benefits of music, how music can affect surgical patients, and discover how music can reduce postoperative pain.

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #music #musictherapy #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #painmanagement

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Is the data collected in your Surgical Services department useful? Can you depend on that data to make informed decisions about staffing, case volumes, and block time utilization? In today’s First Case Vendor SpotlightTM we’re going to discover data we can trust as we dive into the innovative world of Leap RailTM, a platform revolutionizing perioperative services with artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, and workflow automation. Join CEO Shayan Zadeh as he highlights the innovative ways this technology bridges the gap between our dynamic surgical environments and static data collection tools. Plus, tune in to hear the real-world experiences from end users Sam Shahin, Perioperative Services Manager at Northbay Medical Center in Fairfield, CA, and Carie Helt, Surgical Services Business Manager at Baptist Health Care in Pensacola, FL.

Leap Rail was born out of the MIT Grand Healthcare Challenge to utilize the latest advancements in computing, AI, and machine learning to deliver “smarter” tools to Operating Rooms. Leap Rail is designed to elevate the entire perioperative platform by using this technology to lead the way for more efficient, effective operating room management. With a menu-based approach, intuitive user experience, and collaborative mindset, Leap Rail is an innovation in healthcare technology that empowers providers to navigate the complexities of modern surgical care with precision, confidence, and ease.

To learn more and to request a demo, visit www.leaprail.com, and follow them on LinkedIn.

#vendorspotlight #podcast #operatingroom #efficiency #productivity #data #predictiveanalytics

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There are a variety of opioid-sparing techniques available for surgical patients and joining us today to tell us more about them is Orthopedic surgeon and opioid sparing advocate, Dr. Michael Redler. In today’s interview we’ll learn about the importance of patient education, regional blocks, and multimodal pain management strategies. Dr. Redler will also share insights from his medical mission work in Honduras, where these techniques have been successfully implemented. We’ll discuss the challenges in educating healthcare providers about opioid-sparing strategies and highlight the importance of patient-centered care. It’s an information-packed episode, so stay tuned!

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #painmanagement

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Can we manage pain and anxiety without medication? In today’s interview, we sit down with Jessica Hovland, DNP, RN, CPAN, NE-BC, PMGT-BC, registered nurse and the Senior Director for UT Health Austin’s Ambulatory Surgery Center, to answer this question! Tune in to discover how Jessica’s DNP research blended multimodal analgesia and virtual reality to offer surgical patients a non-opioid treatment option for postoperative pain. We’ll learn about her research, we’ll discuss what she learned, and we’ll uncover the unexpected benefits that she found for using virtual reality. Stay tuned!

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #virtualreality #anxiety #pain

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In today’s First Case Vendor SpotlightTM, we dive into the future of healthcare operations with the AITATM Smart System. Tune in as we speak with Matthew Chila, Director of Digitally Enabled Solutions at Ethicon, Inc., and Phil Gaby, Executive Director of Surgical Service Lines at a Community-Based Health System in Florida, to explore how AITA is transforming the management of suture inventory in the operating room. From insights into the genesis of the AITA Smart System to its revolutionary impact on inventory optimization, technology adoption, and the future vision of the AITA Smart Room, this conversation is a must-listen for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance efficiency and streamline processes in the surgical environment. Discover the power of artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and predictive analytics as we uncover the potential of AITA in shaping the future of healthcare operations.

The AITA Smart System is a comprehensive solution that optimizes the way hospitals manage their inventory – supporting sutures and a limited number of complementary products. It turns supplies into data, data into insights, and insights into actions.

To learn more about AITA, visit AITA Smart System | Ethicon (jnjmedtech.com) to schedule a demo or reach out to the team directly by emailing AITA@its.jnj.com.

#operatingroom #surgery #hospital #InventoryManagement #SmartSystem #VendorSpotlight

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Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Pathways are changing the surgical experience for our patients. Our surgical patients are experiencing shorter lengths of stay, decreased postoperative pain, a more rapid return of bowel function, and decreased readmission rates. Joining us today to provide more insight into the implementation and benefits of ERAS pathways is Kim Duggan, Senior Director and ERAS Specialist at Pacira Biosciences. Tune in to hear Kim’s personal experience establishing ERAS pathways at her facility, learn what barriers she faced, and how she succeeded. We’ll also learn more about one of the non-opioid medications commonly used to provide long-term pain relief for our surgical patients. Tune in for more!

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #ERASPathway #painmanagement

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What does postoperative pain management look like in children? Is it the same as adults? In today’s episode, Dr. Erik Pearson, a pediatric surgeon in Las Vegas, NV, sheds light on this important topic and draws attention to the unique nature of pediatric pain. Tune in to discover the alarming statistics surrounding opioid addiction in the pediatric population and find out what strategies can be used to effectively manage pediatric post-surgical pain. We’ll also explore alternative medications, non-pharmacologic approaches, and highlight avenues for preventing opioid addiction. Don’t miss this eye-opening interview!

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #pediatrics #pediatricpain #pediatricpainmanagement

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Regional anesthesia (nerve blocks) improves the patient’s surgical experience, and the benefits of regional anesthesia last throughout the surgical procedure and well into the recovery process. Joining us today to talk all things regional anesthesia is Dr. Theresa Bowling, MD, Director of Anesthesia at the Connecticut Orthopedic Institute in Bridgeport, CT. We’ll take a deeper look at the role that anesthesia plays in combatting the opioid epidemic , learn how nerve blocks work, and discuss the long-term benefits that patients experience through the use of regional anesthesia.

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #regionalanesthesia #anesthesia #nerveblock

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Is your hospital clean? Do patients see the privacy curtain and see that it hasn't been exchanged in over a year?

"It’s not surprising that patients and their loved ones “know clean when they see it” and that they value it. If enough patients are saying the hospital is not clean as evidenced by a curtain that hasn’t been changed, hospital leadership should listen to them. Patients are making judgements about the quality of care when things are not as they should be and when best practices for cleaning are not being adhered to."

This is the final episode of our 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series! In this series, we're learning from industry expert Karen Goelst, CEO and Founder of KleenEdge. With a 20-year background in architectural specialties and textiles, Karen became passionate about solving the issues surrounding privacy curtains following her 15-year-old son’s hospital stay with MRSA.


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative

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Are you ready for Season 11 to begin?? In this season, we’re “Going Beyond Opioids” and focusing on the opioid crisis and alternative pain management methods. And we’re kicking it off with none other than Orthopedic Surgeon and Opioid Sparing Advocate, Dr. Scott Sigman! Tune in as Dr. Sigman shares his personal experiences and insights into the devastating effects of the opioid crisis and find out what sparked his passion for opioid sparing techniques. Plus, learn with us as Dr. Sigman discusses the transformative impact of opioid-sparing techniques in practice. Don't miss this powerful discussion that challenges the status quo in pain management!

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 #opioidcrisis #opioids #opioidsparingsurgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech

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How many times have you been asked to operate the laser during a case? Were you trained to operate that laser, and did you feel confident you could troubleshoot issues if anything went wrong?

Inconsistent laser safety practices in the OR can significantly increase risk to patients and staff, impact OR efficiency and add to the administrative burden on clinical staff.

So, what’s the answer?

Find out in today’s First Case Vendor SpotlightTM with Casey Branham, Vice President of Service Solutions – Surgical Services and Kanoe Russell, Director, Solution Management – Surgical Services at Agiliti®. We will highlight the benefits of having trained, certified laser technicians onsite to support surgical procedures and discover how this support can help to reduce risk, reduce cost, and increase quality and efficiency.

Who is Agiliti?

Agiliti is an essential service provider to the U.S. healthcare industry with solutions that help support a more efficient, safe and sustainable healthcare delivery system. Agiliti supports over 130,000 surgical cases each year and provides surgeons with quick access to a fleet of best-in-class surgical lasers rentals and the technical talent needed to operate them.

To learn more about Agiliti, call 800-847-7368 or email them at contact@agilitihealth.com. You can also visit agilitihealth.com/surgical-services/ or follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook!

#operatingroom #ornurse #lasersafety #lasers #perioperative #scrubtech

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Is the "inexpensive" curtain you signed up for actually costing you more money?

"When looking at “no-ladder” solutions that deploy a standardized curtain size (whether fabric or disposable) one should not just consider the per panel cost, but more importantly HOW MANY curtain panels are required based on your track lengths."

This is episode 11 of our 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series! In this series, we're learning from industry expert Karen Goelst, CEO and Founder of KleenEdge. With a 20-year background in architectural specialties and textiles, Karen became passionate about solving the issues surrounding privacy curtains following her 15-year-old son’s hospital stay with MRSA.


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative

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Have you ever wondered what it was like to work in an operating room in another country? Or, have you ever thought about serving on a medical mission team? In this week's Special Release interview, join host Chris Blevins as she interviews Melanie Perry about her recent medical mission trip to Honduras. Find out what it was like to work in a foreign operating room, learn about the preparations that went into making the trip happen, and find out the lessons that were learned along the way. It's definitely an eye-opening conversation that you don't want to miss!

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 #medicalmissions #missiontrip #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech

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Are ceiling-mounted cubicle tracks hindering room cleaning and patient turnovers?

"It’s not surprising that curtains fly under the radar, creating significant patient and staff infection risk as they frequently remain in place too long. But how on earth can we expect EVS departments to figure out how to exchange these curtains, touched by everyone, in a timely fashion when they’ve been dealt such a bad hand due to terrible design!"

This is episode 10 of our 12-Part Expert Series On-The-Go series! In this series, we're learning from industry expert Karen Goelst, CEO and Founder of KleenEdge. With a 20-year background in architectural specialties and textiles, Karen became passionate about solving the issues surrounding privacy curtains following her 15-year-old son’s hospital stay with MRSA.


Expert Series On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from industry experts in a creative, easy to listen to, audio format. Think audio book meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ORExpert #perioperative

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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

#operatingroom #education #simulation #healthcare

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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 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 #healthequity #storytelling #healthcare #narrativereflection #podcast

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How do our body language, our situational awareness, and our ability to listen play into our ability to communicate? Find out in today’s interview with Kristy Wheeler, RN and OR Nurse Leader! Listening is a critical component of communication, and we can’t communicate effectively if we can’t listen. Developing good listening skills is important for everyone in our department, from frontline staff to leadership. We’ll learn tips for active listening, the importance of body language, and how listening helps improve relationships within our department and our patient care, so tune in and listen up!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #communication #activelistening #listening

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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.

The ELAN 4 Power System eliminates the need for matching components with its integrated motor system. It also has an intuitive “Plug-N-Play” assembly for all tools and attachments, along with universal burr length and clear coding of burrs. All types and sizes of burrs are available for handpiece lengths thereby reducing inventory carrying costs and shelf space.

To learn more about the ELAN 4 Power System visit http://aesculapusa.com, follow Aesculap on LinkedIn and reach out to your local Aesculap representative for more information!

#operatingroom #surgery #surgicalpower #orthopedics #micropowertool #neurosurgery

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What should I include on my resume? What questions should I be asking? Discover the answer to these questions and more in today’s interview with Krista Whiting, VP of healthcare recruitment at Parkwood International. As an experienced healthcare recruiter, Krista offers her years of insight to us as she helps us understand how to succeed during an interview. We’re going to learn how to communicate about ourselves during an interview and how to properly advocate for ourselves. Plus, Krista will share helpful tips for writing resumes and asking questions during the interview. Don’t miss this episode!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #communication #interview #selfadvocacy

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Have you experienced bullying in your department? Whether you’ve witnessed it or experienced it personally, bullying is very common in nursing and in the operating room, unfortunately. Joining us today to talk about this all-too-common topic are Andrea Dyer, Training Manager, and Sarah Griffin, Perioperative Clinical Coordinator, for the Satellite Operating Rooms at Boston Children’s Hospital. In this discussion, we’ll define bullying, gaslighting, and microaggression. We’ll also discuss the effects of bullying on employees and on our patients. And finally, we’ll discover how we can communicate to each other and to hospital leadership if bullying is occurring within our department. Don’t miss this interview!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
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#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #communication #bullying #nurses

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When a neurodivergent patient needs surgery, how do we communicate with them? Do we speak only to the caregiver, or do we take the time to talk with our patient? Teaching us about the communication needs of neurodivergent patients through her own experience is Paige Sanzo, RN, OR Charge nurse, and mom to an autistic son. Join us as she shares her story, telling us about her son’s experiences with healthcare professionals, and as she helps us take what she has learned and apply it to our surgical patients.

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
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#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #pediatrics #neurodivergentpatients #communication #autism #inclusion

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How can we help children have a positive surgical experience? What role does anticipatory guidance play in helping kids understand the procedure they’re going to have? Joining us today to help us better understand how to communicate with children is Erica Basora, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CNOR, Clinical Specialist at Northside Hospital. We’ll discuss the different needs of children based on their growth and development. We’ll also find out what drove Erica to write and publish children’s books, including a book that helps kids know what to expect before surgery. You don’t want to miss this conversation!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #pediatrics #pediatricsurgery #anticipatoryguidance

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“It’s on backorder.” How many times have you heard that answer when you asked why a needed supply wasn’t on the shelf? Wouldn’t it be better if your team knew ahead of time that items weren’t available, and they knew what steps were already being taken to resolve the issue? In today’s interview with Suzi Collins, Market Director of Supply Chain at Steward Healthcare, we’re going to be talking about the relationship between the Operating Room and Supply Chain and how important proper communication is between the two departments. How do we get the supplies that we need? How much lead time does Supply Chain need in order to have a product available? Why does it seem like Supply Chain says NO every time you ask for something? It’s not because they don’t like you! Tune in to this episode to find out!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #communication #SupplyChain #Collaboration #Healthcare #perioperative #nurse

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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

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When you have a Spanish-speaking patient, do you know how to communicate with them? Can you ask them basic questions, or do you freeze up and hope you can find someone who speaks Spanish who can help you out? In today’s episode we’re discussing the importance of communicating with Spanish-speaking patients with Meghan Codd, Spanish communication coach for healthcare providers and founder of Mi Vida Spanish. Meghan will be teaching us important phrases so that we can introduce ourselves and find out basic information. This is an episode packed with learning, so let’s get to it!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #communication #SpanishInHealthcare #perioperative #nurse

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What is the secret to happiness? The answer, according to Dr. Michael Redler, Orthopedic Surgeon at Connecticut Orthopedics, is great communication. Communicating effectively sets the tone for our whole day in the Operating Room. Do we have the supplies needed for a case? Did the right grafts or implants get brought in? Was everyone in the room treated with respect and recognized as a valuable contributor to the success of the case? Join us for this exciting start to Season 8 as Dr. Redler shares his insights and advice for great communication!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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#operatingroom #surgery #communication #teamwork

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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
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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 #leadership #ormanager #perioperative #podcast

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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 one of the pioneers in the latex-free movement in the OR, Cardinal Health’s ProtexisTM Surgical Gloves are the market leader in polyisoprene surgical gloves. With a fit and feel similar to latex gloves, the ProtexisTM PI Surgical Glove is the most popular glove in the United States. You can learn more about Protexissynthetic polyisoprene and neoprene surgical gloves and discover how your facility can go latex-free by visiting cardinalhealth.com/surgicalgloves.

You can also contact Cardinal Health at 800.321.0591 and be sure to follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook!

#operatingoom #surgicalgloves #latexfree #perioperative #scrubtech #ornurse

*This podcast is intended for healthcare professionals.

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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

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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 busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Ortho #OrthopedicSurgery

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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 reminders and alerts. KleenEdge is committed to improving the environment offering 100% recyclable products to drive sustainability initiatives and goals.

Learn more about KleenEdge by visiting www.kleenedge.com and follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook!

#operatingroom #perioperative #privacycurtains #vendorspotlight #surgerystartshere #ornurse #perioperativenurse #HAI

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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. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #stress #mentalhealth

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“1, 2, 3, 4…. We’re missing a sponge…Let’s count again.” Does this conversation sound familiar? Manual surgical counts are a standard procedure for every surgical case, but studies show that incidences of retained surgical items (RSIs) continue to occur even when the count has been reported as correct. In this final interview of Season 7, we tackle the topic of surgical counts and adjunct technology with Hannah Elmblad, Director of Customer Excellence at Stryker. In this interview we'll talk about the prevalence of RSIs, discuss the AORN Guidelines, and find out the benefits of adding technology to your counting process. Don’t miss this interview!

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 #Perioperative #CapitalEquipment #Education #SurgicalCounts #RetainedSurgicalItems #RSI

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When you buy Capital Equipment, do you purchase through the manufacturer, or do you use a distributor? What are the benefits to purchasing through a distributor? Joining us today to discuss the role of the Capital Equipment Distributor is Jonathan Murphy, Regional Account Executive at Didage and Surgical Power. In this interview, we’ll learn about purchasing new vs refurbished equipment, how distributors can reduce headaches in the purchasing process, and how they can help you source the equipment that you need. Join us for this engaging discussion!

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 #Perioperative #CapitalEquipment #Education #Equipment

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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."


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 #mothersday #moms

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How much do you know about your OR tables? Do you ever put much thought into the design and function of this vital piece of OR equipment? In today’s episode of the First Case podcast, we’re talking all things OR tables with Brian Grant, Product Manager Commercial Operations at Getinge. We’re going to talk about table design, patient and staff considerations when using OR tables, and safety. You’ll definitely learn something new in this eye-opening interview!

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 #Perioperative #ORTable #Education #Safety #Equipment

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How much thought do you give to that switch you flip every morning when you walk into your OR? The lights come on, and we start our day, right? After listening to this interview with Trey Whitehurst, Founder & CEO of CH Whitehurst Solutions, LLC., you’ll see there’s more to the lights than just flipping a switch. How did we get the OR lighting that we have today? What types of light are in our ORs? What issues can we experience with lighting? We’re going to talk about all of these questions and more in today’s interview. 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 Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#OperatingRoom #Surgery #Perioperative #Lights #SurgicalLights #Education #Safety #Equipment

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How much do you know about your electrosurgery unit (ESU), or ‘the Bovie’? Were you taught anything more about it than just how to turn it on and apply the dispersive pad? In today’s interview with Michelle Lemmons, Field Sales Training Program Manager at Steris, we’re learning all about this essential piece of surgical equipment! How does the ESU work? How can we protect our patients and prevent burns? And what about surgical smoke? We’re going to tackle all of these questions and more on this episode of First Case!

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 #Perioperative #Cautery #Electrosurgery #Education #Safety #Equipment

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OR Educators are crucial to our success in the Operating Room. One of their many roles is to ensure that we use equipment safely, protecting ourselves and protecting our patients. In this week’s interview with OR Educator Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, we go behind the scenes to learn how an OR Educator empowers frontline staff to safely use the equipment in the OR. What training do they provide? What resources are available? What could go wrong and how do we troubleshoot? We’ll look at all of these questions and more in today’s interview. Tune in now!

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 #Perioperative #OREducator #Education #Safety #Equipment

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Operating Rooms (ORs) have to be designed properly so that we can use all of the equipment needed to perform operations. What does the integration and design of an OR look like? How do we make sure that our OR design allows for efficient operational workflow? In this interview with Brian Moores, Senior Principal Healthcare Information Technology at Shen Milsom & Wilke, we break down the importance of OR design, and we discuss how our ORs need to be functional, not only with the equipment we’re using today, but also with any equipment or technologies we may encounter in the future.

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 #Perioperative #ORIntegration #Integration #Design #ORDesign #Healthcare

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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 beanbagis not a toy, and a donut is not a tasty breakfast treat."


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 #surgicalgloves #doublegloving #perioperative

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When you need new equipment in your Operating Room, how do you get it? Where does the money come from for large purchases? In this exciting kick-off to Season 7, we’re diving right into the topic of Capital Budgets with special guest Garry Skinner, Cofounder and Partner at Discover S3. What is a capital budget? How do you get the equipment that you need? We’re addressing all of these questions and more on this first episode of “Plugged In: The Equipment that Powers the Operating Room.” Tune in to learn how to advocate for the equipment that you need!

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 #Perioperative #CapitalBudgets #Purchasing #Healthcare

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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 about UltraSAFE, and how your facility can be protected from formalin exposure by visiting https://www.milestonemedsrl.com/us/product/ultrasafe/. You can email Milestone at info@milestonemed.com and follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook!

#operatingroom #vendorspotlight #employeesafety #perioperative #specimencollection #pathology #riskreduction #risk #safety

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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."


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 #surgicalgloves #doublegloving #perioperative

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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?"


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 #why #learning

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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!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #CVOR #CardiacSurgery

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What makes a good leader? Are you only a leader if you have a title? Joining us to talk all things Perioperative Leadership is Jennifer Misajet, COO & CNO at Mercy One. In this final episode of Season 6, learn about Jennifer’s personal journey into leadership, discover the importance of mentorship and networking, and uncover the challenges that new leaders often face in their roles. We’ll also discuss key takeaways for seasoned leaders and highlight the benefits of honesty and transparency in leadership. If you’ve ever thought that you might want to be in a leadership position, this interview is for you!

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 #Perioperative #ProfessionalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #leadership #healthcareleader #healthcare

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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 Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#OperatingRoom #Surgery #Perioperative #ProfessionalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Coaching #ProfessionalCoaching #Coach

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Have you ever thought about sharing your knowledge and expertise by writing articles for nursing magazines? How do you get started? Find out in this informative interview with Judy Mathias, Clinical Editor at OR Manager. Find out how to get started, how to get your point across in your writing, and learn three key rules to remember when you write! If you’ve ever wanted to write or are curious about how you can submit an article to a magazine, tune in to today’s 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 #Perioperative #ProfessionalGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #Leadership #Writing

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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!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #FireSafety

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Do you experience collaboration within the departments of your organization, or is each department isolated? Is it possible to measure the degree to which we are collaborating? Brooke Elliott, Founder of BE Complete Coaching & Consulting, LLC, is joining us today to help us define collaboration and understand our Collaboration Quotient. How can we build collaboration into our culture? How can we break down the silos that so often exist within our organizations? Discover the answers to these questions plus learn what benefits we experience through effective collaboration in today’s discussion with Brooke!

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 #Perioperative #Collaboration #teamwork #professionaldevelopment

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If you ask a patient who took care of them in the OR, they’ll definitely remember their surgeon, and they’ll probably remember their anesthetist and their nurse. But, do they ever remember the surgical technologist (ST)? Do they even know there was another expert scrubbed in for their case? In this Season 6 interview with Chris Blevins, CST, Founder of the Scrub Life Podcast, we talk about the desperate need for awareness around the important role that STs play in the operating room. Find out how we can educate about the profession, how we can reduce the national shortage of STs, and how we can advocate for better pay for this vital perioperative role. 

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 #Perioperative #SurgicalTechnologist #CST #ScrubTech #Scrub

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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

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Let's be real. There's a lot of..."stuff" that can hold us back. Even stuff we aren't aware of. Today’s interview with Lindsay Brown, VP of Sales and Marketing at Beyond Clean, will be an exploration of common limiting mindsets that prevent personal and professional growth. What IS a limiting mindset? How do our thoughts limit our progress? And how does all of this relate to our professional growth? Find out what’s holding you back in this exciting 3rd episode of Season 6!

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 #Perioperative #ProfessionalGrowth #Mindset #Professional Development

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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 follow Surfacide on LinkedIn and Facebook.

#operatingroom #vendorspotlight #infectionprevention #disinfection #UVCDisinfection #education #podcast #perioperative

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Have you ever thought about joining a professional organization? Is there any value or benefit to joining? In this Season 6 episode of “Success in Scrubs,” we speak with Stella Yau, BSN, RN, CNOR, about the benefits of professional organizations. Go beyond simply earning CEs, and dive into the relationships, networking, and mentoring that professional organizations have to offer! Discover how Stella’s AORN chapter is thinking outside-the-box to make attending meetings more accessible, and find out how you can get involved!

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 #Perioperative #ProfessionalOrganization #ORNurse #AORN

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In this week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, we've teamed up with OR Manager to bring you a preview of one of the sessions from the OR Business Management Conference that's coming to Savannah, GA, February 6th-8th!

Tune in for 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 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

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Season 6 is coming in hot! This season, we’re tackling the topic of professional growth and development. What does that look like for perioperative professionals? Is there a certain path we’re supposed to follow? Is there more to professional growth than getting CEs? Join us as Jamie Terran, Certified Career Coach and VP of Marketing & Education at Propper Mfg, kicks off the conversation and helps us define professional development. Learn what is necessary for professional development – and what isn’t – in this exciting first episode of Season 6!

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

#professionaldevelopment #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #operatingroom

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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 #PatientCare

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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 #perioperative #AOTG #patientsafety #patient #training #healthcare

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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 Operating Room professional!

#operatingroom #surgery #perioperative #AOTG #patientexperience #patient

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As our operating rooms become more technologically advanced, how do our Infection Preventionists keep up? How does Infection Prevention (IP) keep in step with the technology, and ensure that we are disinfecting all of the different equipment properly? Find out the answers to all of these questions and more in our eye-opening interview with Brad Whitchurch, Founder, CEO, & Chairman at SealShield and host of the CleanTalk podcast. Discover the effects that new technology has on Infection Prevention, and what challenges product developers face when creating products for IP. Don’t miss the educational interview!

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 #IP #infectionprevention #IT #informationtechnology #podcast #perioperative

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Happy Perioperative Nurses’ Week! We are celebrating the achievements and contributions of perioperative nurses this week as host Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, sits down for a conversation with Brenna Page, MSN, RN, CNAMB, CNOR discussing all things perioperative. They’ll talk about what it’s like to be an OR nurse, discuss why they love OR nursing, share stories from their experiences, and discuss the future of perioperative nursing. 

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 #PeriopProud #Perioperative #Nurse #ORNurse

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Where does this cord go? How can I get the monitor to work? Why is it not working already?? We’ve all been there, feeling the gaze of the surgeon as everyone in the room waits for us to hook up equipment, only to struggle with getting video connections to actually work. We’re talking all things video integration today with Ryan Hager, Global Digital Marketing & Documentation Manager at FSN Medical Technologies. Tune in as Ryan breaks down the common headaches and pain points with video integration systems and listen as he shares valuable insight on the information that should be common knowledge, but often isn’t. Improve your knowledge today!

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 #videointegration #videosystem #ORNurse #video

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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 dan.pfister@unitedpathways.com. You can also visit https://unitedpathways.com/ to learn more! 

#operatingroom #supplychain #vendorspotlight #revenue #healthcare

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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

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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

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Did the Operating Room seem just a little overwhelming during orientation? Did you rethink your decision to come to the OR after experiencing how different it was from other departments? In today's interview with First Case Co-Host Melanie Perry, find out how she would answer those questions, and learn why, as an experienced nurse, she decided to make the move to the Operating Room. Join us today for a candid conversation with Melanie, and get to know your co-host a little better!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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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 #orientation #nurse

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Did the Operating Room seem just a little overwhelming during orientation? Did you rethink your decision to come to the OR after experiencing how different it was from other departments? In today's interview with First Case Co-Host Melanie Perry, find out how she would answer those questions, and learn why, as an experienced nurse, she decided to make the move to the Operating Room. Join us today for a candid conversation with Melanie, and get to know your co-host a little better!

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 #orientation #nurse

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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 Stille Instruments, including how they improve clinical outcomes, in this exciting interview!

Stille makes a variety of high-quality instruments including supercut scissors, needle holders, forceps, ronguers, clamps, retractors, curettes, osteotomes, and micro instruments. To learn more, visit Stille’s website at sales.us@stille.se. You can also visit their professional and experienced US Distributor, Synovis MCA, at www.synovismicro.com.

#operatingroom #surgery #instruments #precision #podcast #vendorspotlight #firstcase

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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 Stille Instruments, including how they improve clinical outcomes, in this exciting interview!

Stille makes a variety of high-quality instruments including supercut scissors, needle holders, forceps, ronguers, clamps, retractors, curettes, osteotomes, and micro instruments. To learn more, visit Stille’s website at sales.us@stille.se. You can also visit their professional and experienced US Distributor, Synovis MCA, at www.synovismicro.com.

#operatingroom #surgery #instruments #precision #podcast #vendorspotlight #firstcase

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Once our patients are intubated, what’s going on inside their airway? Is it protected from drainage and secretions? On today’s episode, we speak with anesthesiologist Dr. Benjamin Wang, MD, CMO and Founder of NeVap. We are going to learn about healthy airway design, how anesthetics and paralytics affect the airway, and how subglottic drainage can lead to pneumonia. We will also find out what lessons the ICU has to teach the OR. Tune in now!

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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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 #anesthesia #pneumonia #patientsafety #CRNA 

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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

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What is moral injury? How does it apply to healthcare workers? How did the Covid-19 pandemic highlight this phenomenon? Helping us understand more about moral injury is Dr. Mike Rempel, DNP, RN, CNOR, education specialist, at University Hospital, Newark, NJ. If you haven’t heard of moral injury, you’re not alone! It has only recently been applied to the healthcare setting. In today's interview, we are going to define moral injury, break down the differences between moral injury and PTSD, and discuss strategies for moral healing. You don’t want to miss this conversation!

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 #moralinjury #prevention #selfcare #awareness

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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, your staff, and your Operating Room from the damaging effects of a surgical fire. Tune in today!

You can learn more about GloShield and Jackson Medical by visiting https://gloshield.com or by emailing them at info@gloshield.com.

Don't forget to follow them on LinkedIn and Facebook for even more educational content!

#operatingroom #surgery #firesafety #SurgicalFire #fireprevention #education #vendorspotlight #podcast #firstcase

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It’s Fire Safety Week! We’re familiar with fire safety drills, evacuation drills, and we’ve probably taken the same fire safety test (with the same answers) for a few years in a row. Today’s interview with Kamil Makhnejia, VP of Clinical Development at Jackson Medical, reminds us of the importance of fire safety as we talk about those things that we sometimes take for granted. It’s easy to get comfortable with the risks we take in the OR, and to forget about the importance of our safety procedures. We're going to break down the fire triangle, discuss why RACE and PASS are such important acronyms, and talk about how we can improve workflows to reduce the risk of fire. You don’t want to miss this conversation!

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 #firesafety #fireprevention #surgicalfire #safety #fire

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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

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How can the OR and SPD benefit from strong vendor relationships? How can our current vendor management process be improved? We’re talking all things vendor management on today’s episode of First Case with Jeff Wertz, Chief Commercial Officer at Sergio Health. Tune in as we discuss the current state of frustration from the OR/SPD perspective, but also from the perspective of the vendor. Learn how proper vendor management can affect quality metrics and find out what data we should be collecting and measuring to improve our operating rooms.

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 #vendormanagement #vendor #medicaldevicerep

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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 curriculum. Incision Academy supports innovative online training and can be complemented with on-the-job support through Incision Assist. Incision Assist contains all preference cards and information needed to be optimally prepared for a day in the OR. Everyone on the team can maintain and update cards, which means that communication across the surgical team will be improved. Let Incision help you improve your education, training, and productivity – tune in to learn how!

You can learn more by visiting www.incision.care. You can also follow Incision on LinkedIn and Facebook.

#operatingroom #surgery #technology #Incision #communication #education #learning

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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 curriculum. Incision Academy supports innovative online training and can be complemented with on-the-job support through Incision Assist. Incision Assist contains all preference cards and information needed to be optimally prepared for a day in the OR. Everyone on the team can maintain and update cards, which means that communication across the surgical team will be improved. Let Incision help you improve your education, training, and productivity – tune in to learn how!

You can learn more by visiting www.incision.care. You can also follow Incision on LinkedIn and Facebook.

#operatingroom #surgery #technology #Incision #communication #education #learning

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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 #mentor #retirement #ORNurse

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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 #mentor #retirement #ORNurse

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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“But I’ve got block time!” insisted the surgeon. “I’m sorry, but your block time was released yesterday and another surgeon has now posted cases in that spot,” said the OR scheduler…. Sound familiar? We seem to have conversations like this frequently. How can we make sure that our policies around block time are well-defined and understood by everyone? How can correct block utilization affect productivity and efficiency? Learn all about block scheduling today as we talk with Shawn Sefton, MBA, BSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Clinical Solutions at Hospital IQ. We’ll discuss the importance of establishing block utilization policies and the best ways to track block utilization. Don’t miss this exciting Season 4 finale!!

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 #technology #blockscheduling #scheduling

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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

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Can technology make you safer? How do we find the balance between natural and artificial intelligence and how do we collaborate between both of them? Helping us answer these questions today is Dr. Peter Kim, MD, pediatric surgeon and founder of Activ Surgical. Tune in to learn about the current state of surgery, why surgery needs to change, and how technology in the operating room makes surgery safer.

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 #technology #safesurgery #patientsafety #machinelearning #artificialintelligence

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How many times have you been sent to look for items that have been recalled? How much time did you have to spend digging through bins, looking on shelves, or reading box labels? It can be a very time-consuming, frustrating process. On today’s episode of First Case, we’re talking all about medical device recalls with Guillermo Ramas, founder of Notisphere. We’ll take a look at the current process for recall management, discuss how this process influences timely communication and trust between providers and supply chain, and learn how technology can improve the process for everyone.

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 #materialsmanagement #recall #supplychain #powersupply

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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

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Have you ever heard, “I don’t need to wear laser safety goggles, I’m wearing glasses,” or, “If the surgeon isn’t going to wear the goggles, I don’t have to, either.” While not always the best fashion statement, laser safety goggles are always the best choice for eye protection when lasers are being used during a procedure. But there’s more to laser use and safety than just eye protection, although that is very important. Joining us today to discuss all things laser is Richard Gama, Director of Laser Safety at Agiliti. Together we’ll learn how lasers are different from other types of energy-based technology, discuss the common hazards, errors, and problems associated with laser use, and we’ll discuss ways we can improve health care facility and industry compliance with laser safety. Tune in to learn more!

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 #lasersafety #perioperative #surgicaltechnologist #ORNurse #surgeon #CRNA 

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What’s is like to leave a position in perioperative leadership and go back to working as an OR circulator?  If you ask Dr. Jessica Gruendler, DNP, RN-BC, CNOR, CPHQ, it’s wonderful! Jessica began her career in the operating room as a surgical tech, earned her nursing degree, and spent the last 20 years in perioperative leadership positions. She recently stepped back into the role of a staff nurse, and brought her leadership perspective with her. With her unique perspective, she’s been able to learn what it is that really drives staff satisfaction, and she has very simple, actionable solutions to improve our departments. Tune in as she shares those solutions and as she highlights how leaders can work with and support their teams better.

Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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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 #notjustanurse #frontline #perioperative #ORNurse

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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-products-llc/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TidiProducts

Sterile-Z Website - https://www.tidiproducts.com/product-listing/sterile-z-covers

#TIDI #SterileZ #SterileField #MayoCovers #Surgery #OperatingRoom #Compliance #AORN #FirstCase #VendorSpotlight

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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

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How many times have you been burned because you set up based on what the preference card said? We’ve all done it, and we’re all a little leery of trusting our preference cards, because we expect them to be wrong. On today’s episode of First Case, we’re talking all things preference cards with Dr. Lenita Williamson, MD, CEO & Founder of ProcedureCard, Inc. We’ll talk about the common problems, how changes should be made, who should be making those changes, and how much an incorrect preference card can cost in terms of time and money. You don’t want to miss this 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 #podcast #preferencecards #prefcards

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Have you ever opened a tray and thought, “What happened to my instruments?!” Despite being a frustration, instruments that are damaged, broken, or have any staining or pitting can ultimately cause harm to our patients. We’re talking all things instruments today with Michael Matthews, Director of Customer Training and Education at Agiliti. Do you know why saline damages instruments? Do you know why spraying enzymatic cleaner on your instruments is so important? Do you know what causes staining or rusting? Learn all this and more in today’s interview!

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#operatingroom #sterileprocessing #instruments #surgery #podcast

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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 #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #GiveNewGradsAChance #Perioperative

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How many times do you touch the privacy curtains in the pre-op or PACU? How many times per day do you think those curtains get touched? Do you know how clean they are, or how often they get changed out? In today’s conversation with Karen Goelst, Founder and CEO at KleenEdge, we’re talking about high-touch surfaces, how they correlate to hospital acquired infections, and the downstream consequences of design. We’ll also look at what techonologies can be leveraged to collect data to help improve our patient outcomes.

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#operatingroom #surgery #hightouchsurfaces #recoveryroom 

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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

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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, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Perfection #JustCulture

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The operating room isn’t just a place where patients have surgery. It’s also a business. And behind the scenes of that business is an OR Business Manager, working hard to maximize efficiencies and reimbursements. They understand how business data, contracts, and productivity are connected, and how that information translates into the operating room. Joining us in discussing this important role is Paul Rhodes, RN, Perioperative Consultant of Clinical and Business Operations at AuditMed.net. We’ll take a look at how the surgical business functions, how OR business managers help optimize the operating room, and how their attention to the details can improve our productivity and efficiency.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #BusinessManager #ORNurse #Surgeon #SurgicalTechnologist #Perioperative

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Does augmented intelligence (AI) have a place in the operating room? Can AI help deliver patient services and improve the delivery of healthcare? We’re asking these questions and more on today’s episode of First Case as we talk to Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, MD, Member of the Board of Trustees of the American Medical Association. We’ll discuss the challenges associated with using AI, the regulatory pathways including FDA regulations, and we’ll discuss the questions that we as consumers should be asking before adopting new technologies. Stay tuned to learn more!

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #AugmentedIntelligence #VirtualReality #Anesthesia #CRNA #Technology #ORNurse #Surgeon #SurgicalTechnologist #Perioperative

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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

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It’s very hard to tell that a micro instrument is damaged, until it’s seen underneath a microscope – then the damage is immediately obvious. Micro instruments require special care and handling to protect them and to prevent damage. On today’s episode, we’re talking all things micro with Terry Harrell, Director of Sales at Synovis Micro Companies Alliance. Tune in as Terry shares what the OR needs to know about micro instruments, how OR and SPD staff should handle them, and what happens when they get damaged. 

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #MicroInstruments #ORNurse #Surgeon #SurgicalTechnologist #Perioperative

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What’s it like for patients around the world who need surgery? What access do they have to medical care? Joining us today is Dr. Michael Redler, MD, an orthopedic surgeon on the Physician Leadership Board of One World Surgery. He has been involved with medical missions for many years, and he's sharing his experiences with us today! Tune in as we discuss how medical missions benefits underserved communities, how it changes the lives of patients and their families, and how it can change the lives of those who serve as well.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #MedicalMissions #ORNurse #Surgeon #SurgicalTechnologist #Perioperative

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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 #ArticlesOnTheGo #Productivity #Consistency

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There’s generally a transactional relationship between the OR and SPD. The SPD gives, and the OR takes. And that relationship is usually hindered with break downs in communication and a lack of respect – from both sides of the autoclave. We’re discussing ways to improve that relationship today with Brian Dolan, MHSA, CMRP, CRCST, CHVAP, LSSGB, VP of Resource Management at Bayhealth Medical Center in Dover, DE. Tune in as Brian discusses the different challenges that OR staff and SPD staff face, the ways our systems promote poor communication, and the importance of empathy, respect, and good relationships.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #SterileProcessing #Relationships #Perioperative

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Does your current staffing model account for succession planning? Are you prepared for loss in your department from resignation, promotion, or retirement? Continuing our discussion on predictive analytics in staffing, and now in succession planning, is Jason Goodwin, MPH, MSN, RN, CEO of Innovative Cultures, LLC. Tune in as he shares how he improved succession planning within his own department through predictive analytics, learn how to present your needs for staffing in a way that the C-suite will understand, and put his algorithm to use in your own department to improve planning for your future staffing needs.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #PredictiveAnalytics #SuccessionPlanning #Perioperative

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Neuro can be a little overwhelming, and if it’s not your regular service line, scrubbing those cases can really make you nervous. Joining us today to share her experience in Neuro and to help make the service seem a little less daunting is Alyssa Bittel, CST. Alyssa has been a surgical tech for ten years in a Level 1 Trauma Center in Central New York, and she loves all things Neuro. Tune in to hear the challenges of working in Neuro, tips for handling the unexpected, and listen as Alyssa breaks down the misconceptions that most people have about this specialty. You don’t want to miss this episode!

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #SurgicalTechnologist #Neuro #ORNurses

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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!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #PatientCare

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Surgical Techs – how much training did you receive in the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) while you were in school? Do you feel like the training you received gave you an adequate understanding of SPD? Joining us today to discuss SPD training is Eboni Saurage, EdD, CST, Assistant Professor of Surgical Technology at Baton Rouge Community College in Baton Rouge, LA. Eboni developed a program within the surgical tech program at her school that focused on learning sterile processing. Hear how increased education in SPD can benefit surgical techs, how it can improve relationships between OR and SPD staff, and learn the benefits of learning sterile processing while in scrub tech school.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #SurgicalTechnologist #SterileProcessing

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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 #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Efficiency

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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 Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #Orientation

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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 busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #PatientCare

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How many times does a patient come in for surgery, only to experience delays that have nothing to do with them? For example, lack of available beds on the floor leads to PACU filling up with patients, which then prevents the OR from continuing because they can’t send their patients to recovery, and suddenly the next patients coming in experience a bottleneck of delays that they had no part of or control over. Every day, breakdowns in our communication and our processes prevent us from maximizing our efficiency and experiencing peak performance. We’re tackling this topic today with Dr. Bohdan Oppenheim, PhD, Professor of Systems Engineering at Loyola Marymount University. We’ll discuss how healthcare suffers from fragmentation and a lack of training in workflows. Dr. Oppenheim will also explain how communication, coordination, and integration of the multiple processes that we go through daily all play into providing safe and efficient patient care.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #SystemsEngineering #Efficiency

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We all know that the OR is an environment that demands vigilance and good-quality, safe, continuous care for our patients. The many advances in technology and our ability to collect data help us to make care customizable, improve our workflows, cut out waste, and reduce redundancy. This allows us to focus on delivering that safe patient care that we all prioritize. Join us today as we discuss how technology and innovation can improve patient care and efficiency with Josh Wymer, MSPM, MA, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, RN-BC, CSSM, CNOR, CPHIMS, FACHE. We’ll discuss the benefits of good data collection, how we can use that data to evaluate our workflows, and how all of that information can translate into our OR culture.

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #Technology #Culture

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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 audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo #PatientSafety #Communication

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Is it possible to use data to improve staffing and also increase surgeon, employee, and leadership satisfaction? Does this type of data exist, and can it be collected? The answer to all of these questions is, “YES!” Join us today for an exciting interview with Jason Goodwin, MPH, MSN, RN, CEO of Innovative Cultures, LLC. Jason is going to share with us how he used predictive analytics to measure competency and efficiency, to increase skill across his surgical team, and to improve staffing and satisfaction within his department. Staffing is a challenge in every operating room – tune in to learn more about Jason’s solution!

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #Staffing #PredictiveAnalytics

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The operating room is a unique and sometimes overwhelming environment. A proper education and orientation are vital for building confidence in new employees, and for building a team that lasts. Today we’re interviewing OR educator, Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, founder of Periop Anew, an OR education consulting company. We’re going to discuss the importance of OR-specific educators and the critical role that they fill within the department. We’ll also discuss how laying a good foundation in education, rationale, and skills training is crucial in developing confident and competent OR nurses. Stay tuned!

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #OREducator #NurseEducator #Education

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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 presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! #OperatingRoom #InfectionControl #Surgery #CRNA #SurgicalTape

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If I need to submit points to recertify my CNOR, how do I earn them? What are points, and how are they different from CE’s? If recertification leaves you confused, you’re definitely not alone! Join us today for this exciting interview with Jim Stobinski, CEO of CCI. We are going to learn about the CCI Research Foundation, microcredentialing, shed some light on the difference between points and CE’s, and discover why the points system is better designed to demonstrate competency. You don’t want to miss this conversation! Your questions will be answered!

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#OperatingRoom #Surgery #CNOR #Certification #CNAMB #CSSM #CST

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Registered Nurse First Assistants, commonly called RNFAs, are an important member of the surgical team. As an assistant in surgery, they practice under the direct guidance of the surgeon, and they collaborate with the surgical team to help achieve optimal patient outcomes. We’re really going to dive into the value that the RNFA provides the OR on today’s episode of First Case as we speak with Michele Kuznitz, CRNFA. Join us as we talk about the RNFA role, the benefits of RNFAs within the OR, and discuss the differences between hospital-employed RNFAs and independent contractors. You don’t want to miss it!

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#OperatingRoom #RNFA #CRNFA #Surgery

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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

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Is it possible for a VR headset to change the way we train surgeons and improve surgical performance? For Justin Barad, MD, Founder and CEO of OSSO VR, the answer is, “Yes!” As technology continues to advance, the surgical training learning curve is getting longer. And with the variety of procedures that we are capable of performing, mastering all of them has proven to be a challenge. Tune in as we discuss this exciting advancement in technology and training. Learn how OSSO VR is allowing healthcare professionals to practice current skills, to learn new ones, and to accurately assess their technical ability. The future is here!

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#OperatingRoom #VirtualReality #Surgery

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What does the future of surgery look like? How can technology help improve efficiency, productivity, and patient outcomes? We’re going to look into the future today as we speak with Anthony Fernando, CEO of Asensus Surgical. Tune in as we discuss digital surgery and the benefits augmented intelligence and machine learning offer to both clinicians and patients. Learn about performance guided surgery and discover how we can decrease variability in surgery and decrease complications through the use of technology.

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#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #Surgery #Technology #DigitalSurgery

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Coaching isn’t something reserved for sports teams or fitness enthusiasts. Healthcare professionals frequently take advantage of coaching as well. Phyllis Quinlan, PhD, RN, Executive Coach for AORN, works with AORN members to provide coaching services covering a variety of topics. On today’s episode we cover current trends in coaching needs, advice for new peri-op staff, advice for experienced staff, leadership development, and a healthy work environment. Phyllis is passionate about helping healthcare professionals succeed. Don’t miss this great interview!

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#FirstCase #Coaching #OperatingRoom #ORNurse #ProfessionalDevelopment

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR. 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

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We can’t perform an operation or an invasive procedure if we don’t have sterile instruments. It almost goes without saying, but sterility is fundamental to what we do in the operating room. Confirming that our instruments and trays are sterile is of paramount importance every time we set up for a case. Helping us discuss this important issue today is Hank Balch, Founder and President of Beyond Clean. Tune in as Hank describes the overlap between the sterile processing department (SPD) and the operating room, and listen as he shares what those of us in the OR can learn from the sterility experts in SPD.

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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

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Surgery can be a scary experience for anyone, especially children. Being in an unknown environment with so many strange faces mixed with the fear of needles, pain, or separation from parents can significantly increase a child’s anxiety, all before they even enter the operating room. Induction of anesthesia only increases that anxiety when we hold a child down, and force them to breathe anesthesia gases through a mask held tightly to their face. But, there are ways that we can make the operating room a less anxious place. Join us as we talk with Diane Miller, CRNA, and CEO of PEDIA, LLC., about the ways that decreasing anxiety in children before surgery can improve the entire surgical experience. We’ll discuss ways that OR staff can help reduce anxiety, we’ll cover special considerations for the pediatric population, and we’ll discuss the ways that play can improve the surgical experience for children.

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW First Case mobile app on: 📲
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#FirstCase #PediatricSurgery #Anxiety #Anesthesia #OperatingRoom #ORNurse #SurgicalTechnologist

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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 iloper@DSIDirect.com. Follow Ian and the rest of the DSI team on LinkedIn.

#VendorSpotlight #SterileStorage #SterileTransport #Sterilization #SterilityAssurance #DSI #EmployeeRetention #Safety #BlueWrap #SterileProcessing #FirstCase #OR #CS #MDR #SPS #Surgery #OperatingRoom #CaseCarts #NoTear #Shelving #EmployeeSafety #SupplyChain #AAMI

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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

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How does architecture influence plastic surgery? For pediatric plastic surgeon Dr. Sheryl Lewin, MD, her art and architecture background has influenced her ability to innovate and design the ear making-process for patients with microtia and atresia. Join us today as we discuss her unique work, learn about the special 3-D process she uses for creating implants, and hear how she’s changing the lives of children around the world!

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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
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Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#FirstCase #Microtia #Atresia #LewinEar #OperatingRoom #ORNurse #SurgicalTechnologist

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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

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What is a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)? What value can they add to surgical services? On today’s episode of First Case, we explore everything that a CNS does in the OR with Brenda G. Larkin, MS, RN, ACNS-BC, CNS-CP, CSSM, CNOR. We’ll learn more about this advanced nursing practice degree, what the CNS role looks like in the OR, and discuss the many different ways the CNS serves as an invaluable resource for the operating room. Ready to learn more? Let’s get going!

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK
Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#FirstCase #ClinicalNurseSpecialist #OperatingRoom #ORNurse #SurgicalTechnologist

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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 creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional!

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo

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How many times has it been said, "New grads need to work in Med-Surg prior to working in the OR."? While most nursing schools focus on Med-Surg during clinicals, there are many students who really feel called to the operating room. Sending them to Med-Surge first for "experience" doesn't give them specific OR experience, and delays their entry into the OR. Tune in as we discuss this issue today with Lindsey Joyce, MSN, RN, CNL, CNOR, CVOR nurse and coordinator for the Perioperative Nursing Elective at Trudy Busch Valentine School of Nursing in St. Louis, MO. Hear how Lindsey developed a perioperative nursing elective for her school of nursing, how it's benefitting new grads who want to work in surgery, and how ORs across the country have benefitted from this program as well. You don't want to miss this episode! 

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
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Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK
Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #Surgery #NewGrad #NursingSchool

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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

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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 patients and your staff.

Learn more by visiting the Infinitus Medical Technologies, LLC website, contacting them via e-mail, and look for educational information and ask questions directly on LinkedIn and Facebook.

#PatientPositioning #PatientSafety #Surgery #OperatingRoom #FirstCase #VendorSpotlight

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Tape, gel rolls, foam, and a whole lot of pushing and pulling usually go into positioning our patients for surgery. Silk tape is our best friend! But, are we positioning patients the safest way for their procedure, and do our current positioning practices help prevent injury? On today’s episode of First Case, we’re going to explore the world of patient positioning with David Gomez, CRNA and CEO, CTO of Infinitus Medical Technologies, LLC. We’ll discuss our current practices, statistics on patient injuries, and even learn how the heavy lifting of positioning patients is injuring our own employees.

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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Or you can subscribe to the podcast through: 💻
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg
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#Surgery #OperatingRoom #PatientPositioning #EmployeeInjury #PatientSafety

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We've all had rough days in the operating room. Days where it seems nothing is going right, everyone's angry, and there's not enough staff to cover every shift. But it isn't always that way. In this article written by First Case co-host, Melanie Perry, tune in to the ways we can use the good experiences to help balance out the bad ones. Knowing that we're making a difference in the lives of each and every patient that rolls into the OR helps us remember why we do what we do.

At First Case, we know your job is difficult and challenging at times, but keep up the great work - you ARE making a difference!

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

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How often do you hear about productivity in your department? How is that productivity determined? Or maybe, you’re just wondering, “What IS productivity?” If it seems confusing or mysterious, you’re not alone! We’re going to break it all down for you today as we interview our very own First Case co-host, Paul Wafer. With 40+ years of experience, Paul has a unique understanding of productivity and he is passionate about helping others improve. Join us as we learn about productivity and why it is important, and also as we discuss productivity standards and best practices.

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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

#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #Surgery #Productivity #BestPractice

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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

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How do supplies get to your OR? Who makes sure that the products you need end up on the shelf? The Materials Management department is a crucial part of every facility, and they play a vital role in ensuring that we have all of the supplies that we need. In today’s interview with Garry Skinner, president of GSC Consulting, Inc., we discuss best practices for communicating supply changes, the importance of building good relationships between the OR and materials management, and how both departments share the same focus: patient centered care.

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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

#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #Surgery #SupplyChain #PowerSupply #MaterialsManagement

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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 nailing your next pre-op interview: "Conducting a fantastic pre-op interview will come naturally with practice and repetition. By breaking it down into 12 different elements, you can develop a better understanding of the interview process, find it easier to remember what questions you’re supposed to ask, and hopefully remove any fear about getting the interview right......" 


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

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Are your preference cards accurate? Can you depend on them if you’re working with an unfamiliar surgeon? We’re going to tackle the pref card issue on today’s episode of First Case! Joining us is Dan Pfister, President and Consultant at United Pathways, Inc. Tune in as he offers his insight into the benefits of a team approach to pref card management, and find out which department has a vested interest in keeping pref cards correct. You may be surprised to find out who it is!

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW First Case mobile app on: 📲
Apple users: https://zcu.io/gExL
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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

#FirstCase #Surgery #OperatingRoom #PrefCardManagement

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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 reminds frontline healthcare workers of the critical importance of self-care: "In a year that’s been so demanding, and brought so many challenges, we have to take the time to refill our own tanks. We can’t just keep going, ignoring our own physical, mental, and spiritual health. We have to take the time to care for ourselves. Our health and well-being is important too....." 


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

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How often do we hear complaints about instruments that aren’t working properly? When instruments are broken, we tag them for repair, but what happens to them after that? Instrument repair specialist Angelia Limberios, CST, CRCST, joins us on this episode of First Case to talk about that process. As an experienced surgical tech, Angelia brings a unique understanding of the OR into her role as an instrument repair specialist. Tune in as we discuss common issues and challenges with instrument repair, point of use cleaning, best practices, and much more!

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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   #FirstCase #Surgery #OperatingRoom #InstrumentRepair

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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 provides encouragement for surviving the crazy days of OR orientation: "I know it’s overwhelming and there’s so much to take in. But don’t give up. It can take over a year before you truly feel comfortable in the OR. But with each passing day, your confidence will improve. And you’ll realize that even though orientation in the OR was hard and stressful at first, it was totally 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

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Surgical Technologists, or scrub techs, are an important part of the surgical team. Their education and training provide them with the skills necessary to safely provide care for the surgical patient and to assist surgeons during procedures. On this week's episode of First Case, we speak with Megan Mullinax, CST about her experiences working in the operating room. We’ll learn about the evolution of the scrub tech role, discuss the training necessary to become a surgical tech, and explore the (sometimes challenging) relationship between scrub techs and circulators.

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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

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Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G

#FirstCase #Podcast #Surgery #SurgicalTechnologist #ORNurse

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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 discusses the real life importance of OR Time-Outs: "That realization hung heavy in the room. Everyone recognized the gravity of the situation and the seriousness of the error that had just been avoided. The circulator was nauseous from the thought of what could have happened, but the entire team breathed a collective sigh of relief as they quickly broke down the drapes and pulled new ones. ...." Tune in to hear why this topic isn't one that you can afford to ignore!


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

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What is that tech doing over in the corner of the Operating Room on their computer? If you’ve ever wondered just what was going on, then you’re not alone. We work alongside neuromonitoring techs in many different cases, but may of us don’t know exactly what it is that they’re doing throughout the procedure. On this week's episode of First Case, we explore the interesting world of neuromonitoring with Jake Kidd, COO at The Phoenix. Listen in as he explains what neuromonitoring is, what training is required for the technicians, and the important role that neuromonitoring plays in surgical procedures. Ready to learn? Let's get going!   Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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   #FirstCase #Podcast #Surgery #ORNurse #Neuromonitoring #SurgicalTechnologist #Education #Networking 

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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 shares the 10 things she learned about real life in the Operating Room: "There was activity everywhere! It was this kind of controlled chaos that everyone was used to and everyone needed to get everything done so that the surgery could happen – all while Classic Rock played on Pandora in the background..." Tune in to hear about the blood, organs, and other OR-related bodily functions that accompany real life in surgery! ;)


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

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A scrub nurse once said, “Give me a good rep, and I can scrub anything" -- describing the vital role that medical device reps play in the Operating Room. On this week's episode of the First Case podcast, we sit down with Christine Hoene, an experienced orthopedic representative passionate about her role in the OR. Reps who know their instruments and implants are a valuable resource to staff and surgeons, and their preparedness helps cases run more smoothly. Tune in to find out how these reps stay motivated, and the 3 things every rep should do to be successful!

Love our show? Now you can download our BRAND NEW 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 #FirstCase #Podcast #Surgery #ORNurse #SalesRep #Orthopedics #SurgicalTechnologists #Education #Networking

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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 shares the struggle and fear we all have with change in the Operating Room: "We have a tendency to become complacent when something has been done the same way for a long time.  Even though the environment in healthcare is changing rapidly, it can be difficult to realize how we must modify our practice to meet the challenge.  One of the best ways to confront and overcome fear is to be willing to take a fresh look at the data and information available to you on the particular topic. ..."


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

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When you do a laparoscopic case, do you have all of the open instruments available on your back table? Do you spend precious time counting your open and laparoscopic instruments prior to every case? Is this practice still necessary? Find out what the experts think as we interview Marilyn Burns, RN, BS, CNOR, principal of MMBG Consulting and Director Portfolio Advisor-Surgical Services at Premier Inc. We’re going to address all of these questions, discuss the pros and cons of laparoscopic surgery, and dive into current practices on this week's episode of First Case! Enjoy the show and let us know your thoughts in the comments section below...

#FirstCase #Podcast #Surgery #OperatingRoom #SurgicalTechnologist #ORNurse #GeneralSurgery #Laparoscopy

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN founder of Alpha Consulting Group, Inc. and Joahn Ginsberg, MBA where they tackle the topic of robotic conversions in your OR:  "Ultimately, when making a purchase or an upgrade make sure you have done a thorough cost analysis of your current program, include your surgeon’s case commitment, and leverage the company for training and marketing resources. Working alongside the company, armed with your own strategy and demands, can make for a seamless and successful technology upgrade..."


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

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“Everyone please stop all activity for the time out.” How many times do you hear this sentence every single day? Do you actually stop? Do you actively participate in the time out? On this week's episode of the First Case podcast, we sat down with OR Circulator Brenna Page, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNAMB to discuss this fundamental of patient safety in the OR. The time out is our last chance to confirm that everything we are doing for our patient is what we’re supposed to be doing. Join us as we discuss what a proper timeout should look like, our experiences with the timeout process, and find out the key element needed for every successful timeout. Love our show? You can subscribe on: Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #OR #TimeOut #Education #BestPractice #Surgical

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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 ins and outs of effective consignment inventory management: "One of the most expensive mistakes that an OR team can make is to mismanage this high dollar consignment inventory. In order to ensure that your hospital does not have to pay for product it did not use, here are a few critical steps that you should consider....."


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

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What do the OR and the Cath Lab have in common? Should Perioperative Leadership have oversight of the Cath Lab? Do we train Cath Lab nurses and techs the same as OR staff? We’ll tackle all of these questions and many more on today’s episode of First Case, where we speak with Katie Roy, RN, MSN, CNOR, an experienced senior nurse leader of Perioperative Services and Cardiac and Interventional Vascular Labs in Arizona, California, and Hawaii. Hear how she uses her experience as an OR nurse to bring best practice to the Cath Lab and find out how following surgical standards is improving patient care in this setting. Love our show? You can subscribe on:
Apple Podcasts - https://zcu.io/qnVu
iHeart Radio - https://zcu.io/5qkg
Spotify - https://zcu.io/JkqK
Stitcher - https://zcu.io/j76G #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #OR #CathLab #Education #BestPractice #Surgical

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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 basic of Case Cart preparation for your surgical cases: "So yes, the best way to solve your preference list and case picking woes is to hardwire a simple process into your workflow and then cWhat is a procedure case cart? We work with them every single day. They are the raw materials that keep the engines of each Operating Room going at full speed. But when is the last time you have stopped to really consider the What, Where, Who, When, and Why’s of these rolling stainless steel live-savers? That is the topic we’ll cover in this week’s article....."


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

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Can you imagine an operating room where nothing was disposable? Where drapes were made out of cloth, IV bottles were made out of glass, and where you powdered the surgeon’s gloves before sending them to be sterilized? On this episode of the First Case podcast, we sit down with Monica Weisbrich, BSN, RN, to discuss what the OR looked like in 1955 when she walked in as a new nurse. Tune in as she walks us through the evolution of surgery throughout her career and compare the OR that you know today with the one that she describes.

Enjoy listening as she shares her many years of experience with us!

For more information about the First Case podcast, visit us at: https://zcu.io/ZRfr #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #NewNurse #Experience #Career #Insight #Perspective #Nurse #ORNurse #Hospital

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN and Hank Balch, BS, MDiv where they tackle the topic of inaccurate preference lists: "So yes, the best way to solve your preference list and case picking woes is to hardwire a simple process into your workflow and then commit to follow it. But, in order for that to work, you must think about and address the implications for these changes -- be they cultural, technological, or just plain will power. We hope this short article gets you inspired to tackle that preference list project today!...."


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

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Have you ever seen a case cart taped shut, with the words “NO STEALING!” written across the tape? Have you ever grabbed instruments or supplies that you needed off the nearest case cart? Or, have you ever been the one who’s instruments or supplies were taken? Pilfering supplies from the nearest case cart when we are in a hurry might be convenient, but it always leaves our coworkers in a bind, scrambling to find what they need for their cases. On this week's episode of the First Case podcast, we speak with Lizabeth Craig, RN, circulating nurse at Advent Health about her experience in the OR with case cart accuracy, production, and the dreaded pilfering. Listen in as she shares how she’s dealt with case carts throughout her career – the good, the bad, and the ugly!

We hope you enjoy the show!

For more information about the First Case podcast, visit us at: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #CaseCarts #Network #Education #Growth #Nurses #OR #RN

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN where he discusses challenges around efficient OR scheduling practices: "Block scheduling in the operating room has become a common practice at many hospitals across the country. By providing surgeons with a regular block of time for performing elective surgery, it allows for better planning of time and utilization of resources for both the hospital and the surgeons utilizing this privilege. When managed appropriately, block-scheduling can maximize the utilization of time and personnel within a department. If not managed properly, block-scheduling can create inefficiencies and potentially lose business for a hospital...."


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

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Robotic surgery has become the gold standard for many minimally invasive surgeries, but getting the technology set up in the operating room involves more than just buying a machine. Is our OR big enough? Do we have the right instruments and sterile supplies? What about sterile processing? These questions (and so many more!) must be answered before robotic surgeries can begin in any facility. Tune in this week as we talk to robotic expert Joahn Ginsburg, founder of Robotic Surgery Consult, about all of our questions surrounding robotic surgery and hear her suggestions for a successful purchase and set-up. Learn about the benefits to robotic surgery and get excited by all of the ways robots are helping to improve patient care.

#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #OperatingRoomNurse #ORNurse #ORNurseLife #Surgery #SurgeryLife #SurgicalTechnologist #SurgicalTech #SurgTech #PeriOperativeNurse #PeriOperative #Circulator #CirculatingNurse #DaVinciRobot #RoboticSurgery

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series is written by, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN where he highlights five common reasons new OR staff leave your hospital: "With the average age of an Operating Room nurse now over 50 years old, there will be new nurses joining your organization in the future. If you are having issues with staff turnover, chances are one or more of the 5 reasons above are in play. With focused effort and a lot of patience, cultures can change and staffing can stabilize. We owe it to our new nurses to give them the best opportunity for them to succeed..."


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

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OR managers & directors, when was the last time you wore scrubs at work? When was the last time you were physically present in the OR? Do your staff members know what you look like? Being a visible director in a busy OR is challenging, and can be difficult to manage alongside other leadership responsibilities. Finding balance in your level of engagement between staff, anesthesia, surgeons, and administration is truly a skill, and requires you to be intentional with your time. On today’s episode, find out how Karla Mossholder, BSN, RN, Director of Perioperative Services at Peace Health, has found this balance. Hear how she manages all of the demands on her time, how she maintains her presence in the OR, and what truly motivates her as a perioperative leader.

#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #OperatingRoomNurse #PeriOpertive #PeriOperativeNurse #Leadership #SurgicalTechnologist #SurgicalTech #Surgery #SurgeryLife #Circulator

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series features, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN discussing seven critical indicators for high performing Operating Rooms: "Blocks are meant for high volume surgeons who can fill a room. It should be a “reward” for consistent utilization. Blocks should be utilized at the 85% rate. If physician blocks are consistently underutilized, they must be addressed. In hospitals with low block utilization, we recommend a target in the 60-70% range and adjust it higher as compliance improves. Physicians with low utilization must be addressed in an objective fashion. Depending on their current utilization, they should either have their number of days reduced, or completely eliminated..." ------- 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

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As the Covid-19 pandemic swept across the globe in 2020, our healthcare facilities faced a multitude of challenges. Inadequate amounts of PPE, a lack of Covid testing supplies, and ever-changing Covid policies were hurdles that had to be met and overcome as hospitals moved forward in the wake of the pandemic. Join us this week as we talk with Dr. Chris Turner, MD, anesthesiologist and Director of Perioperative Services at UW Health about his role in overseeing the Covid strategy at his facility, hear the lessons that they learned, and find out how they are using those lessons to impact their patient care in 2021.

For more information on the First Case podcast visit us at: https://www.firstcasemedia.com/

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#FirstCase #OperatingRoom #Surgery #SurgeryLife #Perioperative #OperatingRoomNurse #PerioperativeNurse #SurgicalTechnologist #SurgicalTech #Covid19 #Covid #Coronavirus

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series features, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN discussing common misconceptions around measuring & evaluating surgery turnover times: "While turnover time can provide some measure of  efficiency, it is important not to rely on this number alone to determine how well your surgery department is running.  In our consulting practice we have seen several examples of hospitals with average, or (better than average) turnover times with tremendous inefficiencies..."


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 

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How clean is the air in your OR? Is the HEPA filter and the positive pressure of the room enough to protect your patient from contaminants in the air, or is there more to it than meets the eye? Join us in this eye-opening episode as we discuss infection prevention with air expert Dr. Linda D. Lee, public health practitioner and president of Linda D. Lee Healthcare Consultants. We’ll learn more about OR design, discuss the necessity of laminar flow (Is it really necessary?), and talk about the ways OR staff either hinder or help in our shared goal of preventing infections.

#FirstCase #InfectionPrevention #OperatingRoom #Surgery #SurgeryLife #Perioperative #OperatingRoomNurse #PerioperativeNurse #SurgicalTechnologist #SurgicalTech

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series features, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN and Hank Balch, BS, MDiv, CRCST, CIS, CER, CHL discussing the critical importance of SPD & OR teamwork: "Much of a facility’s blaming/shaming culture can be tracked back to certain individuals who see it as their mission in life to burn their counterparts.  These folks must be dealt with.  They must be confronted by their leaders and their peers with the expectation of teamwork and professionalism that is critical for your team’s success....."

Hope you enjoy! Thanks for listening!


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 

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"Where's my tray?" "How'd you break the scope?" "Why aren't you precleaning?" "Agh, they messed it up again!" If you’ve worked in the operating room for any amount of time, you know that the relationship between the OR and SPD can be strained. For two departments that so heavily depend upon each other, the relationship is oftentimes more of a blame game than one of cooperation, mutual respect, and positive feedback – from both sides. In this episode of First Case, join Paul, Jeremy, and Justin as they talk with Peter Nichol, MD, practicing pediatric surgeon at the University of Wisconsin and Chief Medical Officer at Beyond Clean about this critical issue. Tune in as we get a surgeon's perspective on Sterile Processing challenges that impact the OR, and discuss ways to start changing the relationship dynamic between the OR and SPD today.

You can subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and anywhere else podcasts are heard!

Or you can listen directly from our website: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #PerioperativeNurse #Perioperative #Surgery #SurgeryLife #OperatingRoom #OperatingRoomNurse #SurgicalTechnologist #SurgTech #SurgicalTech #SPD #SterileProcessing #BeyondClean #Podcast

Disclaimer of Endorsement: First Case Media does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise represented in the recording of this podcast. The views and opinions of guests or advertisers expressed on or in the recording of this podcast does not necessarily state or reflect those of the First Case Media team.

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This week's episode of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series features, Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN discussing challenges in pre-operative preparation: "It is one of the great mysteries of life that some offices can have all of the information available days in advance, including the H&P, while others struggle getting it to you before the patient goes into the operating room.  We recommend that one of the requirements for having a first case of the day is that the H&P be on the chart at least the day prior to surgery.  How else can the RN and Anesthesia provider adequately assess the patient if that information is missing?  If a physician cannot get an H&P to the hospital prior to the day of surgery, that physician should not be able to schedule cases for the first case of the day...."

Hope you enjoy! Thanks for listening!


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 

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The operating room has a reputation for being a challenging place to work. While many of us enjoy this challenging, fast-paced environment, we know that everything isn’t always perfect. Unfortunately, disruptive behavior in the form of belittling, bullying, or hazing is a common occurrence. Join us on this week’s episode as we tackle this unhealthy, widespread issue with Michelle Lemmons, RN, BSN, PHN, clinical educator in the OR for Key Surgical. We’ll discuss the many forms that disruptive behavior takes in the OR and address the ways we can be empowered to create a positive change within our workplace.

You can subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and anywhere else podcasts are heard!

Or you can listen directly from our website: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #PerioperativeNurse #Perioperative #Surgery #Operatingroom #OperatingRoomNurse #SurgicalTech #SurgeryLife #SurgTech #Bullying #DisruptiveBehavior #Podcast

Disclaimerof Endorsement: First Case Media does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise represented in the recording of this podcast.  The views and opinions of guests or advertisers expressed on or in the recording of this podcast does not necessarily state or reflect those of the First Case Media team.

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This week's episode kicks off the initial release of the First Case "Articles On-The-Go" series, which presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional! 

Tune in this week as Paul Wafer, BS, MBA, RN discusses preoperative patient assessment and inefficiencies: "Every step in the process from the scheduling of the operation until the patient is admitted into the operating room has potential for inefficiency, unnecessary costs and errors.  This article will discuss some of these inefficiencies and potential methodologies for minimizing their impact..."

Hope you enjoy! Thanks for listening! #FirstCase #Podcast #OperatingRoom #Surgery #ArticlesOnTheGo 

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Taking call and covering call schedules is a demanding task that requires a substantial amount of time and energy for everyone in perioperative services. Front-line staff know the struggle of working long hours on difficult call shifts, while management faces the struggle of working long hours on creating call schedules and finding adequate coverage. And while call is a necessary evil for most operating rooms, creating call schedules, ensuring call coverage, and finding a fair balance for staff doesn’t have to be so frustrating. On this episode of the First Case podcast, we talk all things call with James Nideffer, BSN, RN. James is the founder of ORCallStaff.com, a unique and helpful resource designed to assist hospitals in managing their OR call schedules. Tune in as we hear James discuss his experiences with covering call, both as a staff nurse and as a nurse manager. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of covering call, the challenges that we face when taking call, and learn about an exciting solution to the challenges of managing a call schedule.

You can subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and anywhere else podcasts are heard!

Or you can listen directly from our website: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #Perioperative #PerioperativeNurse #Surgery #Operatingroom #OperatingRoomNurse #SurgicalTech #SurgeryLife #SurgTech #CallSchedule #JamesNideffer #Podcast

Disclaimer of Endorsement: First Case Media does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise represented in the recording of this podcast. The views and opinions of guests or advertisers expressed on or in the recording of this podcast does not necessarily state or reflect those of the First Case Media team.

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Are you considering earning your CNOR? Do you feel anxious and a little overwhelmed at the thought of preparing for such an extensive test? If the answer is yes, then you are not alone! Nothing makes an O.R. nurse more uncomfortable than being unprepared, and one of the most helpful ways to prepare for the CNOR is with a CNOR review course. On today’s episode we’re talking about all things certification with Wendy Zander, RN, MSN/ED, CNOR, founder of Zander Perioperative Education. Wendy is an engaging and talented educator who has been successfully preparing nurses for the CNOR exam since 2004. Join us as Wendy shares how she created her review course, learn about the benefits of certification, hear the success stories of other nurses just like you, and get ready to prepare yourself for the CNOR.

You can subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and anywhere else podcasts are heard!

Or you can listen directly from our website: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #Certification #CNOR #PerioperativeNurse #Surgery #SurgeryLife #OperatingRoom #OperatingRoomNurse #Podcast

Disclaimer of Endorsement: First Case Media does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise represented in the recording of this podcast. The views and opinions of guests or advertisers expressed on or in the recording of this podcast does not necessarily state or reflect those of the First Case Media team.

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Whether you scrub or circulate, work as front-line staff or serve in leadership, the operating room can be a uniquely challenging but extremely rewarding career. On this inaugural episode of the First Case podcast, get to know our experienced OR hosts who understand firsthand what it’s like to love, hate, and work in the Operating Room (depending on the day!). Tune in as they layout a vision for the First Case podcast and talk about the diverse experiences they will be bringing to this innovative audio project with every episode. 

You can subscribe to the show on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, and anywhere else podcasts are heard!

Or you can listen directly from our website: http://www.firstcasemedia.com

#FirstCase #Podcast #Perioperative #Surgery #Operatingroom #OperatingRoomNurse #SurgicalTech #SurgeryLife #SurgTech 

Disclaimerof Endorsement: First Case Media does not endorse or recommend any commercial products, processes, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise represented in the recording of this podcast.  The views and opinions of guests or advertisers expressed on or in the recording of this podcast does not necessarily state or reflect those of the First Case Media team.