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

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.

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

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.

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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

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

Have you ever heard the term "surgical conscience"? Do you know what it means? Joining us today to discuss this critical component in surgical care is Danielle Quintana, PhD, MSN-ED, RN, CNOR-E, Assistant Professor, University of Houston Gessner College of Nursing. Tune in as we discover what defines surgical conscience, the 3 components that is has, and how surgical conscience is connected with infection prevention. Don't miss it!

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#operatingroom #surgery #podcast #perioperative #infectionprevention #IP #safesurgery #surgicalconscience

Happy Holidays!

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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

Happy Holidays! As we celebrate the season, we're giving you a special bonus episode of First Case featuring Phyllis Quinlan, RN, President and CEO of MFW Consultants. In this timely conversation, Phyllis shares powerful insights on navigating persistent uncertainty, reframing "change" as growth and evolution, and leading teams with empathy, clarity, and solidarity during unprecedented times.

As we close out the year and look ahead to what's next, this episode offers practical wisdom for leaders and perioperative professionals facing ongoing change without losing sight of their mission or purpose.

#operatingroom #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #podcast