Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses

Definition

The Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) is a professional organization dedicated to supporting and advancing the specialty practice of perioperative nursing. AORN provides resources, education, and advocacy to enhance patient care and promote the professional development of its members working in surgical settings. This organization plays a crucial role in setting standards, offering continuing education opportunities, and fostering collaboration among nurses and other healthcare professionals in the operating room environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. AORN was founded in 1958 and has since grown to become an essential resource for perioperative nurses across the United States and beyond.
2. The organization publishes the 'AORN Journal,' which features research articles, clinical practices, and other information relevant to perioperative nursing.
3. AORN hosts an annual Global Surgical Conference & Expo, which offers networking opportunities and educational sessions for nurses in the surgical field.
4. Members of AORN benefit from access to a wide range of resources, including practice guidelines, toolkits, and educational webinars designed to improve patient safety in surgical settings.
5. AORN advocates for policies that support safe surgical practices and the interests of perioperative nurses at local, state, and national levels.

Review Questions

• How does the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses influence the practice of perioperative nursing?
  • The Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses significantly influences perioperative nursing by establishing best practices, providing ongoing education, and advocating for policies that enhance patient safety. Through resources like guidelines and toolkits, AORN helps nurses stay current with advancements in surgical care. The organization's commitment to professional development encourages nurses to continuously improve their skills and knowledge, which ultimately leads to better patient outcomes.
• What are some key resources or programs offered by AORN to support the professional development of its members?
  • AORN offers several key resources aimed at supporting professional development for perioperative nurses. These include the 'AORN Journal,' which publishes peer-reviewed articles on clinical practices and research in surgical nursing. Additionally, AORN provides access to online educational webinars, practice guidelines, and a comprehensive annual conference that brings together nurses for networking and learning. These resources empower nurses with the knowledge necessary to excel in their field.
• Evaluate the impact of AORN's advocacy efforts on surgical nursing practices and patient care outcomes.
  • AORN's advocacy efforts play a critical role in shaping surgical nursing practices and improving patient care outcomes. By promoting policies that prioritize safety and effective care within the operating room environment, AORN helps influence legislation that supports nurses' roles in surgery. The organization's commitment to advocating for best practices leads to enhanced standards of care, ultimately resulting in reduced complications and improved recovery experiences for patients undergoing surgical procedures.

Related terms

Perioperative Nursing: A specialized area of nursing that focuses on patient care before, during, and after surgical procedures.

Continuing Education: Ongoing learning opportunities provided to healthcare professionals to maintain their knowledge and skills throughout their careers.

Professional Standards: Guidelines established by organizations like AORN that define the competencies and ethical conduct expected from nurses in their practice.