Chicago City Wire

November 10-16, 2024, is Perioperative Nurses Week, an event recognizing the important role of perioperative nurses in surgical patient care. The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), a national body with over 160,000 members, supports this specialty. AORN's 43,000 registered nurse members are involved in managing and teaching within this field.

Perioperative nurses are crucial to the surgical team. They work alongside surgeons and other medical staff to ensure high standards of patient care. Known as circulating nurses, they focus on patient safety during procedures.

Estela O’Meara, a local perioperative nurse, shares her perspective: “I am responsible for planning and directing care for patients undergoing invasive surgeries, ensuring that their needs are met before, during, and after the procedure. This unique nursing specialty requires highly specialized training and education. The skills we gain through this training are essential for protecting our patients when they are at their most vulnerable.”

The week-long celebration highlights the dedication of these nurses nationwide. Their commitment to patient care remains strong.