First Case Podcast

When it comes to patient safety, we scrutinize every instrument—but how often do we scrutinize the water used to clean them? In today's First Case Vendor SpotlightTM, we're addressing that critical, yet often overlooked, factor in our surgical and sterile processing outcome - water quality. Joining us is Jeffrey Paquet, CEO of VERDA Water Quality Systems, a leader in developing comprehensive water management solutions for healthcare environments. If you've ever questioned the cause behind pitting, staining, or spotting on your instruments—or wondered how infrastructure changes can impact sterile processing—this episode will provide the answers! our conversation today will take a closer look at the intersection of water quality and perioperative care, and we'll examine the implications of water quality on surgical instrument integrity, infection prevention, and overall patient safety. We'll also explore the recently released ANSI/AAMI ST108 standard, how it aligns with and enhances existing guidelines such as those from AORN, and why compliance with this standard is becoming increasingly vital—particularly in states like New Jersey where it is now regulatory. VERDA Water Quality Systems is helping facilities move beyond fragmented, siloed approaches to water management by offering an integrated, system-wide strategy designed to improve outcomes, reduce risk, and support regulatory compliance. To learn more, visit https://verdawater.com/contact/ and to schedule your free assessment. You can also follow VERDA on LinkedIn!  #operatingroom #waterquality #podcast #vendorspotlight #ornurse #perioperativenurse #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

On this episode of our StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion for two wheels brings freedom, focus, and a whole lot of fuel to life outside the hospital. From the thrill of the throttle to the quietness of the long ride, this rider has discovered that nothing clears the mind quite like a full tank and the open road. Tune in to hear how Jennifer Barnickel unplugs and reconnects one curve, one gear, and one mile at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world! #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

Surgical smoke isn't just unpleasant—it's dangerous. In our latest First Case: Articles on the Go episode, we shed light on the harmful particles released during common surgical procedures—and the risks they pose to perioperative professionals. Despite decades of research confirming the presence of carcinogens, mutagens, and infectious material in surgical smoke, consistent regulation and protection remain lacking in many ORs. This episode explores: The health hazards associated with surgical smoke exposure The importance of smoke evacuation systems Legislative progress across the U.S. How perioperative professionals can educate, advocate, and drive change Listen now! ----- 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 #perioperativenurse #firesafety #fireprevention #surgery #scrubtech #surgicaltechnology

On this episode of our StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who find comfort, creativity, and a little pinch of calm in the art of baking. Whether it's homemade bagels, a failed bundt cake, or family traditions passed down through generations, these self-taught bakers have each discovered their own flavor of joy in the kitchen. Tune in to hear how Vanessa Frank & Chelsea Wolner are keeping things sweet outside their 9-to-5s—one pie, muffin, and cookie at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

Surgical fires remain a serious—yet preventable—risk in the operating room. One critical safety measure? Adhering to the recommended dry times for alcohol-based prep solutions. In this episode of First Case: Articles on the Go, we examine the evidence behind dry time protocols, their role in preventing OR fires and surgical site infections, and the importance of following manufacturer guidelines. ----- 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 #perioperativenurse #firesafety #fireprevention #surgery #scrubtech #surgicaltechnology

Autopsy tech Amanda Krygier joins us in the First Case season finale to pull back the curtain on a rarely discussed, deeply meaningful part of patient care - postmortem care. From collecting organs and evidence to comforting grieving families with answers, Amanda shares how compassion continues— even after life ends.  In this episode, we explore:

What happens when the patient on your OR table is an inmate —or a victim of violent crime?

On this episode of the StreetClothes podcast series, we talk to a healthcare professional whose passion project is generating some serious buzz in his own backyard! With 31 hives and counting, this busy bee has discovered the joy—minus the occasional sting—and the liquid gold rewards of working with nature's busiest pollinators. Tune in to hear how Cody Troutt's adventures in beekeeping bring the sweetest kind of work-life balance to life beyond the hospital… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

In this week's episode of First Case, perioperative consultant Vangie Dennis joins us to explore how generational differences impact patient care. From Traditionalists to Gen Z, each group brings unique values, communication styles, and expectations into the surgical setting. Learn how to tailor your approach, improve patient engagement, and avoid common missteps across the generational spectrum.   #operatingroom #perioperative #perioperativenurse #generationalcare #podcast #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #surgicaltech

In this week's episode of First Case, we sit down with JD Buchert, Director of Workforce Safety at Parkland Health in Dallas, TX, to discuss the unique challenges transgender patients face as they navigate the healthcare setting. Did you know that over 70% of transgender individuals turn to emergency departments for care, often due to discrimination or harassment in other medical spaces? In this powerful discussion, JD highlights the importance of using gender-affirming language and treating each patient with respect, leaving biases at the door. He shares how inclusive care not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces overall healthcare costs. Tune in to learn how to create a safe, compassionate environment for everyone.  #operatingroom #ornurse #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #perioperativenurse

On this episode 4 of the StreetClothes podcast, we talk to Lindsay Brown, a Minnesota clinician who has a passion project unlike any other! Not only does she know where babies come from (every child's eternal question), she also knows how clinical expertise beautifully combines with nurturing care during life's very first moments.  Tune in to hear how Linds's work as a doula brings comfort and advocacy to the birthing experience outside of her 9-5 healthcare role... If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

Delivering truly patient-centered care requires cultural awareness and sensitivity. In this week's episode of First Case, Charlie Lin, Nurse Practitioner and First Assist at Stanford Children's Pediatric Otolaryngology, shares key considerations for providing culturally competent surgical care to Asian patients. Learn how to recognize cultural differences, navigate family dynamics, and enhance communication to improve patient outcomes and foster trust in the perioperative setting.   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgicaltechnology #scrubtech  #FirstCasePodcast #CulturalCompetence #PerioperativeCare

In this week's episode, we're changing our focus, and seeing the operating room through the eyes of the patient. Becca Kinney—a former sterile processing technician, medical sales representative, and now entrepreneur—joins us to share her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor. With a clinical background and firsthand experience undergoing multiple surgeries, Becca offers a unique and deeply moving perspective on surgical care. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of her diagnosis and treatment, the value of clear communication and compassionate care, and how even the smallest gestures from caregivers can have a lasting impact. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every procedure is a person who is scared, vulnerable, and in need of connection. Tune in for an episode that underscores the importance of empathy, anticipatory guidance, and truly seeing our patients as people. #operatingroom #perioperativenurse #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #FirstCasePodcast #BreastCancerAwareness #PatientExperience #PerioperativeCare #SurgicalTeam #HealthcareProfessionals #SterileProcessing #EmpathyInMedicine

On this episode 3 of our brand new StreetClothes human-interest podcast series, we talk to two healthcare professionals who have a passion project that's far from fowl play! Not only have they created their own backyard flock of feathered friends, they've also cracked the code for beating those sky-high egg prices! Tune in to hear how Sean Weir & Stacey Gielen became known as the "Chicken Tenders" and how these quirky birds bring sustainable joy to their lives outside the hospital... If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show and share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

In this week's article, we're diving into the power of purposeful teaching with “Intentionality in Surgical Technology Instruction” originally written by First Case co-host Chris Blevins, CST, FAST. From creating hands-on, realistic lab experiences to flipping the classroom for deeper engagement, this episode highlights how surgical technology educators can shape confident, competent future CSTs through intentional and reflective instruction. Whether you teach in the lab or lecture in the classroom, this one's for you. Don't miss these insights that go beyond skill-building to foster professionalism, critical thinking, and advocacy for our surgical tech students. ----- 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! #SurgicalTechnology #PeriopEducation #FirstCasePodcast #OREducation #CST #SurgTechInstructor #ArticlesOnTheGo

Implicit bias - it's unconscious, it's uncomfortable, and it affects patient care more than we may realize. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Darlene Murdock, Staff Nurse at Memorial Hermann Hospital, to explore how our own hidden biases can lead to unequal treatment, impact patient outcomes, and create barriers to compassionate care. Darlene shares real-life stories, eye-opening stats, and actionable steps to help us become more self-aware and patient-focused in the OR and beyond. Tune in now to take the first step toward understanding your own implicit bias! #operatingroom #perioperative #perioperativenurse #implicitbias #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #podcast

What happens when you combine collaboration, efficiency, and standardization in the OR with strategic relationships and data-driven decision-making? You have a success story of operational transformation! Join us in this First Case Vendor Spotlight™ with Randy Subramany, Director of Supply Chain at New York Presbyterian, as we uncover the process that revolutionized procedural supply management. New York Presbyterian, with its expansive network of 10 acute care centers and over 450 locations, collaborated with Cardinal Health™ Presource® Solutions to tackle inefficiencies in procedural supply standardization. The result? A streamlined custom kitting program that reduced redundant SKUs, minimized waste, and significantly improved clinician satisfaction. As a result, the organization eliminated unnecessary variation while enhancing patient care. Throughout the discussion, Randy highlights the critical role of supply chain leaders in driving value-based care, reducing waste, and optimizing workflows. He shares insights into how Cardinal Health™ Presource® has been an essential component in this process, providing robust data analysis, standardization tools, and hands-on collaboration to ensure seamless implementation. From reducing case setup times to improving emergency preparedness, this episode sheds light on how custom kitting solutions can transform perioperative efficiency. If you're looking to streamline supply chain processes, enhance clinician experience, and ultimately improve patient outcomes, Cardinal Health™ Presource® Procedural Pack Solutions is ready to help. Reach out to your Cardinal Health Presource® representative to explore tailored kitting solutions that meet your OR's needs, or request more information on their website. #FirstCase #CardinalHealth #VendorSpotlight #OperatingRoom #Efficiency #Workflows #SupplyChain #PatientCare #CustomSurgicalKits

Welcome to the Season 15 premiere of First Case! We're kicking off this season with guest JD Buchert, and diving into the importance of understanding our patients beyond their procedures. In this episode, we explore the importance of seeing patients as individuals rather than just cases. Our conversation covers the role of culturally competent care, how personal experiences and backgrounds shape patient interactions, and the need for improved communication and empathy in the perioperative setting. We'll also discuss how unconscious bias can impact care and what we can do to foster a more inclusive and patient-centered approach. Join us as we uncover strategies for building trust, enhancing patient interactions, and ensuring every patient feels seen, heard, and respected. This is a conversation that can transform how we care for those who entrust us with their health, so don't miss it! #operatingroom #perioperativenurse #perioperative #surgicaltech #scrubtech #podcast

On this episode 2 of the StreetClothes podcast, we talk to a well-known voice in the medical device space about bending strings and making his guitar "talk." If you're like many Americans, you've probably got a guitar in a closet somewhere. Some of you may even use your guitar as a much-needed tool to unwind your mind after a crazy day at the hospital. Whether you're a "picker" or a "grinner", if you appreciate the power of music to deeply impact people, you'll find a lot of value in this episode.  Tune in to hear how and why Kevin Brown jams out when he's outside of scrubs... If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show to share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

On this episode 1 of our brand new, human-interest “StreetClothes" podcast series, we talk to a clinician who moonlights as a personal chef in between his travel assignments. Don't listen to this interview on an empty stomach as the smell, taste, and passion for food is strong from beginning to end. But like any good recipe, even this story has a little twist — this personal chef isn't whipping up meals for the rich and famous.  Tune in to hear this wonderful story about what Vinny Stancarone does outside of scrubs. If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a chance to come on the show to share it with the world!  #StreetClothes #Hobbies #SideHustles #PeopleMatter #Healthcare #BeyondClean #FirstCase #PowerSupply #TransmissionControl #HealthcareHQ

The AORN Expo is not just another conference—it's an immersive, high-energy event packed with education, networking, and hands-on learning opportunities! As thousands of perioperative professionals prepare to gather in historic Boston from April 5–8, 2025, making the most of this experience requires some strategic planning. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned Expo veteran, these ten tips will help you navigate the busy schedule, maximize learning opportunities, and ensure an unforgettable experience. From utilizing the Expo app to networking with industry leaders, voting in AORN elections, and staying comfortable throughout the event, we've got you covered. Ready to make the most of AORN Expo 2025? Let's dive in!   #operatingroom #perioperative #ornurse #perioperativenurse #aornexpo

Ever think about how clean your stethoscope really is?

Season 14 is a wrap! And while we wait for Season 15, we're bringing you an audio version of an  interview we did with Stella Yau during Perioperative Nurses Week! In this interview, we're talking with Stella Yau about her experience as a perioperative nurse in the US Navy. As she tells her story, you'll hear about nursing school education in the United States, about the additional responsibilities for nursing students in an ROTC Program, you'll learn what it was like for her as nurse serving in the Navy, and how she has used her experiences to influence her career now as a civilian perioperative nurse. 

Suture is something every OR professional encounters daily, yet many of us were never properly taught how much about them. Why is suture sizing so confusing? What's the difference between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures, and when should each be used? In this episode of First Case, we're diving deep into the world of suture, breaking down monofilament vs. multifilament options, discussing how suture coatings impact healing, and uncovering common mistakes that could affect patient outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned perioperative professional or just starting out, this conversation will give you the confidence to navigate suture selection like a pro. Tune in now! #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #perioperative

Trendelenburg is a common position in the OR, but are we truly positioning patients safely? In this episode of First Case, we welcome back David Gomez, nurse anesthetist and CEO of Infinitus Medical, to uncover the risks, misconceptions, and best practices for safe Trendelenburg positioning. In today's episode we'll discuss:

Positioning patients in the OR isn't just about access to the surgical site—it's about preventing serious injuries. From nerve damage and tissue ischemia to long-term functional impairment, improper positioning can have devastating consequences. But with the right knowledge and attention to detail, many of these injuries are completely preventable. Tune in as Chris and Melanie break down the risks, the science behind positioning injuries, and the steps you can take to keep your patients safe. Don't miss it!

Are all of the PPE rules we have in the OR really necessary? Joining us this week to uncover the purpose behind the rules and guidelines is Jill Holdsworth, Infection Prevention Manager at Emory University Hospital Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia. Tune in as Jill breaks down the basics of PPE and its critical role in the OR. We'll discuss common PPE items and unpack the reasons WHY our PPE is essential for patient and staff safety. And of course, we'll tackle the ever-controversial bouffant-over-scrub-cap debate! Don't miss this informative episode!

How do we approach sterility and proper technique in ways that prioritize patient safety and best practices? And why does it matter? In today's episode, Chris and Melanie are diving into the nitty-gritty details of sterile technique — because in the Operating Room, there's no room for "good enough." Tune in to find out why as we discuss guidelines, best practices, and the common mistakes that have become acceptable by many perioperative professionals. We'll also discuss the critical do's and don'ts of sterile field management, and reveal some of the tips and tricks we've picked up along the way. Tune in now!   #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #scrub #bestpractice

Is charting really that important? Joining us today to discuss the vital role that documentation plays in the operating room is Anna Gray, RNFA and Legal Nurse Consultant. From understanding what to document to exploring the connection between nurses' notes and surgeons' operative reports, Anna shares her expertise on why every detail matters.  Tune in to hear compelling courtroom examples where documentation made or broke the case, and discover the broader purpose of documentation that goes beyond legal protection. Proper documentation isn't just a task—it's a tool for patient safety, supply chain efficiency, and telling the patient's story. Join us for an insightful discussion about why accurate charting is essential for both patient care and professional practice.   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #perioperative #scrubtech

Welcome to Season 14 of First Case! This season, we're tackling the question: “But, why?” Why do we do the things we do in the OR? From practices we swear by to those that might need to be retired, nothing is off-limits as we explore the reasoning—or lack thereof—behind our routines. In this season premier, Chris and Melanie dive into some of the most common OR habits, rules, and sacred cows, and unpack the “why” behind them. Chris shines a light on the frustrations caused by poor communication, touching on pref cards, supply handling, and the importance of sharing critical information to the entire team Meanwhile, Melanie challenges the long-standing bouffant and scrub cap debate, breaking down its origins, the changes over time, and whether this rule still holds up to current evidence. Get ready for an engaging, thought-provoking episode that sets the tone for a season full of questioning, learning, and maybe even a little myth-busting. Tune in and let's uncover the “why” together!   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #perioperative #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

While we wait for Season 14, we're bringing you an audio version of our Perioperative Nurses Week video interview series. Catch up on any interview you missed and travel around the world with us!  How would you like to get a post-graduate degree in Perioperative nursing? In Spain, you can! Today we're traveling to Spain to learn more about perioperative nursing and nursing education from Esther Espunes Mestres. Esther has a great story to share with us, so tune in and learn what it's like to train and be an OR nurse in Spain! #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperativenursesweek #nurse #perioperative #perioperative

While we wait for Season 14, we're bringing you an audio version of our Perioperative Nurses Week video interview series. Catch up on any interview you missed and travel around the world with us!  Today we're traveling from S. Africa to California as we learn about perioperative nursing and nursing education from Andrew Veitch. Andrew has a great story to share with us, so tune in and learn what it's like to be a nurse in S. Africa! Andrew will also tell us about the differences he's observed in perioperative nursing after having worked in both S. Africa and the US.  #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperativenursesweek #nurse #perioperative #perioperativenurse

Season 13 has come to an end, and we're anxiously awaiting the launch of Season 14! While we wait, we're bringing you a series of interviews that we did to celebrate Perioperative Nurses Week.  In this 4-week series, we travelled across the globe to hear from perioperative nurses worldwide. In this first episode, we're speaking with Helen Evans and traveling across the pond to England! We'll learn what nursing education was like for Helen, how much exposure she was given to the OR, and what it was like to work in an operating room in England. We'll also learn about some differences that she observed between England and the United States after she immigrated to the US and began working in the USA. Don't miss this exciting interview and stayed tuned the rest of this month for more! #operatingroom #perioperativenurse #perioperativenurses #ornurse #nurse #surgery

Are you ready to dive into the details that make a difference? Join us for an exciting First Case Vendor Spotlight™ with Jenna Lindsay, Clinical Application Specialist, and Vinod Menon, Product Development Specialist, at Solventum (formerly 3M Health Care). We're unpacking everything you need to know about surgical skin prep and its crucial role in helping prevent surgical site infections (SSIs). Tune in to understand the clinical guidelines for patient skin antisepsis and learn how 3M™ SoluPrep™ S Sterile Antiseptic Solution chlorhexidine gluconate (2% w/v) and isopropyl alcohol (70% v/v) Patient Preoperative Skin Preparation stands out. From providing rapid, broad-spectrum antimicrobial protection1†, helping to enhance incise drape adhesion*, and visibility on a variety of skin tones3, this skin prep is a breakthrough solution. Plus, it provides a larger coverage area than the leading CHG and alcohol-based skin prep (26 mL applicator)3¶. At Solventum, fomerly 3M Health Care, we create breakthrough solutions for our customers' toughest challenges by pioneering game-changing innovations at the intersection of health, material, and data science to change patients' lives for the better — while enabling healthcare professionals to perform at their best. For more information about SoluPrep S Sterile Antiseptic Solution or to connect with a Solventum Representative visit SoluPrep S at go.solventum.com/SoluprepSFirstCase You can also follow Solventum on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. #operatingroom #skinprep #surgicalskinprep #skinantisepsis #surgery #perioperative #ornurse #scrubtech #surgeon  † Study was performed on healthy volunteers under simulated surgical conditions. * Compared to skin prepped with ChloraPrep® with 3M™ Ioban™ 2 Antimicrobial Incise Drapes in a simulated knee surgery model, 2019. ¶Compared to ChloraPrep®, 2021. 1. The clinical significance of in vitro data is unknown. 2. Olson L, Morse D, Paulson J, Bernatchez S. Evaluation of Incise Drape Lift Using 2% Gluconate/ 70% Isopropyl Alcohol Preoperative Skin Preparations in a Human Volunteer Knee Model. 2022;15:24-28. 3. Solventum internal data on file.

Season 13 has come to an end, but we're not done bringing you exciting content! In this panel discussion hosted by Melanie Perry, we'll hear 3 different perspectives from Charge Nurses in three very different types of facilities. Our panel of experts includes: 

What Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should we be assessing and evaluating as we determine the success of our centralization efforts? Find out in this final episode of the Expert Series On-The-Go with Bryan Stuart! 

 We're combining education and relaxation in our final episode of Season 13! We're wrapping up our season with Zach Swartz, Perioperative Practice Specialist and Yoga Teacher. Tune in to learn more about how clinical guidelines are researched and developed, learn about the AORN Guideline for Tourniquet Safety, AND, learn more about incorporating yoga techniques into your day! Zach will even provide a short guided relaxation exercise for us, so don't miss it! #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #perioperativenurse #yoga #yogainnursing

When you need a traveler, how confident are you that the person you're getting is truly qualified to fill the role? What if you could work with a staffing partner who had experienced OR and SPD professionals on staff who were truly able to determine the qualifications of the people coming into your department because they understand the role themselves? On this special First Case and Beyond Clean Vendor Spotlight™ co-release episode, we sit down with Lawayne Perkins, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Advantage Support Services, to explore their team's comprehensive approach to Operating Room and Sterile Processing staffing and consulting. Learn how Advantage's team of industry experts are helping departments build sustainable workforces through strategic staffing, customized training, and quality assessments. Tune in today to discover how Advantage Support Services can help your OR or SPD not only meet your current needs but also set your team up for long-term success!  Ready to make Advantage your first call? Visit advantagesupportservices.com, or call 615-341-6222 for more info! Plus, don't forget to follow them on LinkedIn and subscribe to their digital newsletter, “The Executive Edge” for the latest updates!

Technology can be a powerful tool in helping to achieve surgical instrument centralization success. Tune in to today's Expert Series On-The-Go with Bryan Stuart to find out more!

What do you do before you open an item to the sterile field? From the first day we step into an operating room, we're taught to inspect our items for damage, ensure sterility, and check the expiration dates. But why are those expiration dates there? And how can we ensure that we avoid issues with expired products in our departments?  Joining us in the studio to talk all things expiration dates is Suzi Collins, Director of Supply Chain Analytics at Banner Health. We'll discuss the difference between manufacturing date and expiration date, discuss the cost of expired supplies, and learn why awareness is the key to preventing product loss because of expired supplies. Don't miss today's interview! #operatingroom #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist #supplychain #expirationdate

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

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. 

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

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

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!

“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:

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!

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: