Perioperative nurses are patients’ advocates

Perioperative nurses everywhere are being celebrated for their important role and commitment to safe patient care during Perioperative Nurse Week, Nov. 8 to 14. The Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses, a 40,000-member strong organization with state and local chapters nationwide, supports operating room nurses in hospitals and outpatient surgery centers.

Perioperative nursing is a specialized area of nursing practice, providing care to surgical patients before, during and after surgery. As a fundamental member of the surgical team, the perioperative registered nurse works in collaboration with other health care professionals, who may include the surgeon, anesthesia provider, surgical assistant and other assistive personnel.

Perioperative nursing requires a highly specialized skill set. These nurses serve as patients' advocates while they are powerless to make their own decisions.

Our nurses are dedicated to protecting you, our patients, when you are most vulnerable. We are using evidence-based interventions to provide superior patient care.

Ann Sauer, RN

Fairfax