Bridging the gap: Preparing and nurturing novice perioperative nurses

Abstract

Perioperative nursing is a highly specialised area within the nursing profession that relies on high levels of theoretical knowledge, clinical skill and critical thinking to maintain patient safety before, during and after surgical procedures. However, attrition rates and the impending retirement of experienced perioperative nurses have created a need to address the transition of novice nurses into this complex and multi-skilled environment.