OR Today Winter 2026

10

12

35

Competent Practice

Sterile Barriers

Working Together

CCI

AAMI

WEBINAR

37

PRODUCT FOCUS Infection Prevention

WINTER 2026

LIFE IN AND OUT OF THE OR

A Mini-Expo with Major Impact PAGE 18

ADVERTISEMENT, PG 2 CORPORATE PROFILE, PG 24 The 2025 Southeast Councils of periOperative Nurses Conference welcomed many high-level attendees including AORN PresidentElect David Reinhart (left) and seven past presidents in Holly Ervine (2021-2022), Brenda Ulmer (2000-2001), Sheila L. Allen (20012002), Nathalie Walker (2017-2018), Vangie Dennis (2022-2023), Ruth Shumaker (1998-1999) and Bill Duffy (2004-2005).

ruhof.com

GOODBYE OUTDATED.

INTRODUCING THE

FOREVER WET AUTO SPRAYER for use with Ruhof’s Prepzyme® Forever Wet Enzymatic Pre-Cleaner The cleaning process begins at the point of use.

When soils dry, they become harder to remove and increase the risk of corrosion, biofilm formation, and HAI’s. The Forever Wet Auto Sprayer delivers a consistent application of Prepzyme® Forever Wet in less than half the time—keeping instruments moist for up to 72 hours.

HELLO UPGRADED! AUTOMATIC. RELIABLE. BUILT FOR TODAY’S STANDARDS.

WHY UPGRADE? • Battery powered for true portability • Reduce user fatigue with a single button operation • Tackle big jobs by speeding up application per tray • Ensure consistent coverage with a uniform spray output • Drive adherence to pre-cleaning guidelines, helping to reduce HAIs

1 (800) 537-8463 WWW.RUHOF.COM AD-082 070925

®

3M™ Bair Hugger™ Temperature Monitoring System

The power of knowing core temperature, non-invasively

Because knowing sooner means solving faster Knowing a patient’s critical vital signs at all times is key to making the right decisions that lead to better care and outcomes. The Bair Hugger Temperature Monitoring System provides continuous core temperature monitoring with a standardized, non-invasive system to manage normothermia. With real-time data from a single modality, you get better insights, reducing variability and bridging gaps for consistency across the perioperative continuum.

The more you know, the more you can do to reduce unintended hypothermia for your patients.

BairHugger.com © Solventum 2025. Solventum, the S logo, Bair Hugger and the Bair Hugger logo are trademarks of Solventum or its affiliates.

Other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

contents features

42

COVER STORY More and more patients today are choosing ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) over traditional hospitals for their surgical procedures.

36

50

54

Technological advancements in sterilization techniques are driving the growth of the infection control market.

These 3 total body exercises improve your core balance, coordination and strength.

When managers perceive and assess their emotions, desires and tendencies as well as those of others, they gain a substantially increased connection with employees.

MARKET ANALYSIS

FITNESS

EQ FACTOR

OR Today (Vol. 26, Issue #1) Winter 2026 is published quarterly by MD Publishing, 1155 Senoia Road, Ste. 200 Tyrone, GA 30290.

POSTMASTER: See address changes to OR Today at 1155 Senoia Road, Ste. 200 Tyrone, GA 30290.

For subscription information visit www.ortoday.com. The information and opinions expressed in the articles and advertisements herein are those of the writer and/or advertiser, and not necessarily those of the publisher. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. © 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

7

PUBLISHER

contents

John M. Krieg

features

john@mdpublishing.com

VICE PRESIDENT

46

Kristin Leavoy

kristin@mdpublishing.com

SPOTLIGHT ON

VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Joanne Oliver-Coleman, MBA-HM, BSN, RN, CNOR-E

Jayme McKelvey

jayme@mdpublishing.com

$25

EDITOR

Gift C

John Wallace

ard

editor@mdpublishing.com

TWEN TY DOLL -FIVE ARS

65

OR TODAY CONTEST

ART DEPARTMENT Karlee Gower Taylor Hayes

60

Alicia Brown

RECIPE OF THE MONTH Tuna Noodle Casserole

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Megan Cabot Pete Fenlon

DIGITAL SERVICES

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Cindy Galindo

10 CCI: Who Decides What Competent Practice Looks Like? Your Peers Do 12 AAMI: How Superheated Steam Damages Sterile Barriers 14 HSPA: Turning Errors into Learning Opportunities 16 NIFA: A Significant Accomplishment 18 A Mini-Expo with Major Impact: Southeast Periop Conference Delivers Education, Innovation, and Inspiration 22 ASCA: ASCA’s Legislative and Regulatory Accomplishments in 2025 24 Corporate Profile: Ruhof 28 News & Notes 35 Webinars: Webinar Explores OR & SPD Working Better Together

Kennedy Krieg

EVENTS Kristin Leavoy

ACCOUNTING Diane Costea

WEBINARS Linda Hasluem

EDITORIAL BOARD

IN THE OR

Vangie Dennis, MSN, RN, CNOR, CMLSO

36 Market Analysis: Infection Prevention Market Growth Continues 37 Product Focus: Infection Prevention

Associate Professor, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA Natalie Lind, MD PUBLISHING | OR TODAY MAGAZINE

Education Director for the Healthcare

1155 Senoia Rd., Ste 200

Sterile Processing Association, HSPA

Tyrone, GA 30290 800.906.3373 | Fax: 770.632.9090 Email: info@mdpublishing.com

8

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

Pat Thornton, MSM, RN, CNOR Perioperative Consultant, RNFA Dermatology Institute

www.mdpublishing.com

Dawn Whiteside, DNP, MSN, RN, CNOR,

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF

66 Index

Services, AnMed Justin Fontenot, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAADN

OUT OF THE OR

46 Spotlight On: Joanne Oliver-Coleman, MBA-HM, BSN, RN, CNOR-E 48 Health 50 Fitness 52 Nutrition 54 EQ Factor 60 Recipe 62 2025 Southeast Periop Scrapbook 64 2025 PeriopConnect Scrapbook 65 Pinboard

Assistant Vice President, Perioperative

NPD-BC, RNFA, Director of Education, CCI Julie Williamson, BA Director of Communications, HSPA

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

With new laws now enacted in 20 states, surgical smoke evacuation has become a legal requirement, not just a choice. For surgery leaders, this poses a critical question: How do we comply without disrupting our operations, losing our best people, or impacting our bottom line?

The call for action is clear and backed by a consensus from organizations like:

OSHA Surgical smoke is a documented occupational hazard, containing not only carcinogenic chemicals but also live viruses and viable cancer cells1.

90% of surgical procedures generate smoke2

1 gram of ablated tissue is equivalent to smoking

6

CIGARETTES

3

150

+

chemicals found in surgical smoke4

It's a risk that bypasses standard surgical masks, with studies showing that operating room nurses face twice the prevalence of certain respiratory disorders5.

For administrators and executives, implementing a smoke-free OR is more than a policy change; it's a strategic decision.

A commitment to a safer environment helps enhance staff recruitment and retention and serves as a competitive differentiator.

The right partnership can make all the difference.

For over 30 years, CONMED's Buffalo Filter line of smoke evacuation solutions has been at the forefront of surgical smoke management. Our expertise goes far beyond manufacturing devices; it is rooted in education, partnership, and seamless implementation.

CONMED also offers a comprehensive portfolio of products—the largest in the market—ensuring surgeons have more options and the tools they need to maintain their technique.

This commitment to providing the widest range of options is critical for overcoming adoption hurdles. We also continue to innovate, offering cutting-edge technology like the new PlumeSafe® X5™ device.

Going smoke-free is the right thing to do for the health of your staff. By choosing an experienced partner, you can turn a legal mandate into a smart business decision, ensuring a smooth, successful, and vital improvement to your workplace.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE.

1-Liu Y, Song Y, Hu X, Yan L, Zhu X. Awareness of surgical smoke hazards and enhancement of surgical smoke prevention among the gynecologists. Journal of Cancer, 2019; 10(12):2788-2799. 2- Steege AL, Boiano JM, Sweeney MH. Secondhand smoke in the operating room? Precautionary practices lacking for surgical smoke. Am J Ind Med. 2016;59(11):1020-1031. 3-Sahaf, O., Vega-Carrascal, I., Cunningham, F., McGrath, J., Bloomfield, F., (2007). Chemical Composition of smoke produced by high-frequency electrosurgery. Irish Journal of Medical Science, DOI: 10.1007/si1845-007-0068-0. 4-Pierce JS, Lacey SE, Lippert JF, Lopez R, Franke JE. Laser-generated air contaminants from medical laser applications: a state-of-the-science review of exposure characterization, health effects, and control. J Occup Environ Hyg. 2011;8(7):447-466. 5-Ball, K., (2010). Compliance With Surgical Smoke Evacuation Guidelines: Implications for Practice. AORN Journal. doi: 10.1016/j.aorn.2010.06.002

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS CCI

Who Decides What Competent Practice Looks Like?

Your Peers Do n every operating room, one truth is constant: patient safety depends on professional competence. But here’s the question: Who decides what “competent” really means?

I

In perioperative nursing, the answer isn’t a distant authority or a corporate board. It’s the nurses who scrub in beside you, circulate in your OR and face the same challenges you do.

They come together from hospitals, outpatient centers and specialty practices to define, in clear terms, what it means to do this work well.

10

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

That definition becomes the foundation for every competency model, training program and certification exam. It’s not theory, it’s the collective voice of the profession saying: This is what safe, proficient perioperative practice looks like.

Every few years, the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI) conducts a Job Task Analysis (JTA) to ensure the role of the perioperative nurse reflects real-world practice. In its most recent JTA, CCI convened subject matter experts (SMEs) from across the United States, nurses working in academic centers, community hospitals, and

ambulatory surgery settings, to describe what perioperative nurses actually do every day.

Through surveys and workshops, these peers identified and rated the critical tasks that define competent practice. The resulting framework includes six major domains, from individualized patient care planning to infection prevention and intraoperative safety management. Each domain reflects a consensus among practitioners about what the job requires to ensure safe, effective surgical outcomes.

This peer-driven process is more than a checklist. It’s a professional mirror,

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS CCI

Competence isn’t just a credential,

it’s a commitment.

one that allows every perioperative nurse to see how their own practice measures against the expectations of colleagues nationwide.

Competence in healthcare isn’t static, and it isn’t self-defined. It evolves through consensus among practicing experts who share responsibility for patient outcomes. According to the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), competency is “the application of knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary to perform specific job function.” (AORN, 2023).

But what counts as “necessary?” That question is answered collectively. Each time a JTA is conducted, the profession reaffirms what knowledge and skills are essential and what has changed.

Advances like minimally invasive techniques, robotic systems and digital documentation have expanded the scope of perioperative competence.

Nurses participating in the JTA ensure those realities are reflected in how the job is defined.

Maintaining competence, as AORN notes, “requires continuous evaluation of practice based on current evidence, technology and patient needs.” In other words, the profession defines competence and updates it as practice evolves.

Every perioperative professional should pause and ask: Am I practicing at the level my peers expect?

The JTA makes that expectation visible. It outlines the real-world activities peers identify as essential to

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

competent practice. For example: • Infection prevention and control: Are your workflows aligned with current aseptic principles?

• Intraoperative management: Do you anticipate surgical team needs and adapt to changes in patient status?

• Communication and documentation: Are you ensuring clear, timely and complete documentation before, during and after the procedure?

These aren’t just certification checklist items, they’re peer-defined benchmarks of what it means to be a competent, trusted perioperative nurse.

Why does it matter that peers, not external regulators, define the job?

That’s the power of peer definition.

• Integrity: Standards grounded in practice realities, not administrative assumptions.

• Respect: Meeting peer-defined benchmarks earns credibility within the surgical team.

• Relevance: Peer-driven definitions evolve with clinical practice, ensuring competence keeps pace with change.

The next JTA will look different from today’s because the work itself keeps changing. What remains constant is the commitment to letting those who do the work define what good work looks like.

Certification is one formal recognition of competence. But the deeper question is: Are you living up to the standard your peers have set?

The JTA represents a collective

agreement on what safe, proficient perioperative practice entails. It captures the expectations of your colleagues, the same professionals who would want you in the OR when the stakes are highest.

So, take a moment to reflect: • Do your daily practices align with the essential domains your peers identified?

• Are there gaps between what’s expected and what you currently demonstrate?

• How are you maintaining and advancing your competence as the job evolves?

Ready to find out?

Take our quick Competence SelfCheck Quiz (tinyurl.com/f3h8u27f) based on the latest JTA and see how your practice measures up.

Competence isn’t just a credential, it’s a commitment. And in perioperative nursing, that commitment is defined by you and your peers.

References • Association of periOperative Registered Nurses. Perioperative Nursing: Scope and Standards of Practice.AORN, 2023.

• Competency & Credentialing Institute.

“2024 CNOR and CFPN Job Analysis.”

CCI, 2024.

• AORN Journal. “Professional Certification and Competency in Perioperative Nursing.”

AORN Journal, 2022.

• Assess.com. “Job Task Analysis: The Foundation of Credentialing.” 2023.

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

11

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS AAMI

How Superheated Steam Damages Sterile Barriers ore than a decade ago, Dr.

M William Leiva, senior

program manager of sterile reprocessing at Medtronic, observed something troubling. He noticed that some sterile barrier systems (SBS), like peel patches, looked “brittle” or “toasted” after sterilization.

This observation led Leiva to investigate the nuances of the steam sterilization cycle and the impact of superheated steam on sterile barrier systems. With support from the AAMI Foundation in the form of a KILMER grant, he focused on the effects of superheated steam on sterile barrier systems (SBS), such as peel pouches.

Leiva’s research is undergirded by basic differences in steam quality and performance. Wet saturated steam has a “tremendous amount of energy” in the form of latent heat. The moisture allows the steam to transfer energy to medical devices during sterilization. But dry saturated steam has lower enthalpy,

12

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

or ability to transfer heat. Further, superheated steam has no enthalpy.

While steam sterilization cycles tend to follow the same pattern, and the sterilization plateau is constant despite some regional differences, real-world circumstances can lead to variance.

Leiva also pointed out that larger steam sterilizers typically have an inner chamber that, if over-pressurized, can create superheated steam.

The impact of steam of inadequate quality, such as superheated steam, can be substantial. Leiva also noted that there is major variance between hospital and industrial settings. Hospitals usually have “different loads every single day,” which can lead to different steam diffusion characteristics. Latent heat is “significantly reduced” in the event of reduced saturation.

Wet loads remain the primary cause for load reprocessing, and increasing jacket pressure enables dryer loads. The rise of new kinds of polymers and load configurations also creates complexities.

Leiva also stated that steam sterilizers

calculate temperature based on pressure, meaning that if superheated steam is present, the actual temperature within the chamber is likely higher than indicated.

Study Aims and Structure Faced with these issues, Levia adopted three research goals: • First, validate a reproducible method to generate superheated steam in a test laboratory vessel.

• Second, expose samples to control and experimental superheated steam conditions.

• Third, conduct performance testing of the sterile barrier after exposure to conditions of both control and superheated steam.

The goal? Determine “if the sterile barrier is compromised” or if it maintains sterility.

After subjecting the SBS systems to a test sterilization cycle of 15 minutes exposure, 10 minutes of drying, and a two-minute vacuum time at both 121 degrees Celsius and 132 degrees Celsius,

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS AAMI

Leiva conducted three tests on the SBS systems exposed to superheated steam.

1. A visual inspection, finding that some SBS systems were damaged at both 121 degrees Celsius.

2. A peel test, finding that superheated steam made the packaging weaker, and that the packages used in the experiment had a lower peel force.

3. A bubble test in accordance with ASTM F2096, finding significant correlation of experimental conditions and failure of the bubble test.

The SBS systems showed signs of damage at both 121 and 132 degrees Celsius.

Study Conclusions Leiva concluded that the damage suggests that superheated steam does pose risks to sterile barrier systems. The proposed method was validated and delivered statistically significant results on cycle performance for both control and experimental sample groups. Levia also found a strong positive relationship between experimental conditions and decreased performance of sterile barriers. The visually damaged sterile barrier systems are comparable to both paper and plastic SBS observed in hospital production vessels.

Leiva noted that relying solely on built-in physical parameters may lead

to approval of cycles with inadequate exposure conditions, saying, “We may be missing some information.”

What’s Next?

Leiva concluded by suggesting several concrete steps for future research that could provide a better understanding of issues surrounding SBS and superheated steam. First, he proposed including an assessment of cycle parameters, including cycle temperature, cycle drying time and drying pressure. Second, assessing different sterile barrier systems to determine reliability for short storage could be useful.

OR Problems? AIV is Here to Help!

AIV is your one stop shop for infusion pump support and power solutions.

Fixed & Flat Rate Repairs

UL 1363A Recognized

Certified Refurbished Pumps

Relocatable, Locking Mount

888.656.0755 aivsales@aiv-inc.com The manufacturers listed are the holders of their respective names and/or trademarks, and are not to be taken as an endorsement or affiliation with AIV, Inc. 803B

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

13

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS HSPA

Turning Errors into Learning Opportunities

BY Debra Sams, BA, AST, CRCST veryone makes mistakes,

E but they can have

devastating consequences in healthcare, where they can impact patient and employee safety. This is certainly the case for errors made in a demanding, high-risk environment like the sterile processing department, where positive patient outcomes hinge on safe, high-quality practices free from shortcuts and other process deviations.

Fortunately, our ability to use critical thinking, analyze our errors and learn from them presents opportunities to broaden our knowledge and prevent errors from recurring.

Educators can help facilitate learning and error mitigation by applying strategies that center on focused training, and ensuring that the most egregious, high-risk mistakes are 14

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

prioritized and addressed immediately.

Communication and clarity are critical Effective communication is the first step in addressing any work-related error. The team member (or members) directly involved must be advised of the error, its impact and the expectations moving forward. Open dialogue is necessary to answer questions, clarify the situation, and determine what led to the mistake or confusion with a process.

Next, an assessment should be conducted to determine if the error resulted from a lack of knowledge or inexperience or was a case of poor judgment, such as deliberately rushing or skipping a step to save time. A supervisor may need to show the employee the policy and procedures to ensure the proper processes are understood. During the assessment period, educators should have the employee demonstrate the process that resulted in the error. Direct

observation will help reveal training gaps and highlight an employee’s lack of confidence with a process, showing where further training is needed.

From there, it is vital to determine whether training or retraining is necessary for the team member. To determine if the cause of the mistake has anything to do with the training method, educators can review the employee’s previous performance. Are there similar or recurring errors? Has the person received prior training on the task before this mistake? It is possible that the employee did not receive previous training, or that technology has probably changed, and their skills have not been updated. Whatever the case, re-training may involve direct observation, hands-on demonstrations or role-playing. Each technique is beneficial because it involves active participation and engagement of both the trainer and trainee.

Role-playing is an effective training WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS HSPA

approach because it lets the employee assimilate real-life situations and apply critical thinking to make more informed decisions based on best practices and choose the most appropriate approach for the situation.

Direct observation involves watching the employee perform the task. Areas of weakness or strength are identified during this practice. Observing is another effective and convenient technique because the educator can give direct feedback immediately.

Hands-on training or simulation is also efficient for reinforcing employee knowledge and building confidence with a process.

Communicating mistakes with the team is essential for ensuring employees understand the problem and know how to prevent another incident.

Although it is never appropriate to reveal the name of the individual who made the mistake, sharing details

of the error, along with its impact and proper resolution, is helpful.

Discussing the error thoughtfully, without pointing a finger, can foster an environment of learning and trust among team members. Employees will feel more empowered, be able to accept responsibility, and see errors as an opportunity for growth and accountability.

When numerous team members make the same mistakes or if an error jeopardizes patient or employee safety, a root cause analysis (RCA) should be considered. RCAs can be time-consuming and may involve a multidisciplinary team to identify reasons and develop solutions for errors; however, they are well worth the effort.

Conclusion Committing to continual staff development through training and

re-education is crucial to minimize errors and deficiencies in the sterile processing department. Re-education fosters a culture of growth, continuous improvement and accountability for sterile processing professionals.

By taking a blameless approach and embracing open communication, educators help develop confident and curious technicians who are eager to learn and apply best practices.

Educators should view error resolution as an opportunity to provide valuable information and training that contributes to safe, high-quality outcomes. They must also remember that everyone, including themselves, makes mistakes. The important thing is working to resolve them effectively.

– Debra Sams, BA, AST, CRCST, is a columnist for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association and the sterile processing educator for Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

This capital event brings together ASC clinical and operational leaders with experts in outpatient anesthesia.

Register today for this can’t-miss event! ascassociation.org/annualconference WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

15

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS NIFA

A Significant Accomplishment

By James X. Stobinski, Ph.D., RN, CNOR, CSSM(E), CNAMB(E)

his month I would like to

T highlight the

accomplishments of a colleague – Dr. Shelly Mason.

She recently completed a Ph.D. with a perioperative nursing focus. Mason’s academic achievement is noteworthy on a personal level but there are important implications also for perioperative nursing.

Our specialty has a relative shortage of researchers prepared at the doctoral level as compared to other nursing specialties. Even though our specialty is among the largest in American nursing, other groups such as critical care nurses have many more nurse researchers. We do have some distinguished perioperative nurse researchers in Imelda Wright and Christopher Stucky. They are well known to regular attendees at the AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo.

16

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

We have experienced a recent surge in perioperative nurses attaining terminal degrees but there is a tendency for many perioperative nurses to go the DNP route versus a research-intensive Ph.D. Many of our current perioperative nurses who hold a Ph.D. have had long, accomplished careers. However, our research activity has declined and, frankly, there is a need for new blood. That is the connection to nurses like Mason. She is an accomplished perioperative nurse educator who returned to school for a Ph.D. at Nova Southeastern University. She completed a qualitative study which has implications for perioperative nursing practice. The study is titled “Perioperative Nurses' Experience in a Period of Rapid Technological Change: A Phenomenological Study.” Qualitative studies, especially those using approaches such as phenomenology, can be a weighty affair but her study has some useful insights.

There have been some recent studies on the topic of technology and perioperative nursing to

include the studies listed in the references section at the end of this column. 1,2,3 Mason’s work takes a different perspective. Her work, which attracted participants mainly from the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), studies American perioperative nurses with an active perioperative nursing clinical practice. Specifically, Mason looked at the impact of technological change on these nurses. A phenomenological study uses lengthy in-depth interviews to arrive at the essence of the lived experience of perioperative nurses using a nationwide sample. This study gives us a richly detailed account of how the rapid uptake of technology impacts the practice of perioperative nursing.

There were a number of significant findings in the study, and some key points emerged. First, technology is ubiquitous in modern surgical care and perioperative nursing is integral to the use of that technology. Secondly, the rapid and unrelenting advance of technology in the operating

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

NIFA

room is quickly changing the nature of perioperative nursing practice. Mason has many years of experience facilitating the orientation of new perioperative nurses, and she realizes the impact of technological change in the education and training of novice nurses. These challenges are compounded by two factors: the absence of perioperative nursing content in pre-licensure programs and the lack of a uniform, reliable approach to delivering highquality teaching and learning methodologies I do realize that many perioperative professionals are challenged by time constraints to keep up with research findings.

But the dissemination of research findings remains imperative to keep the specialty current. Mason recently presented her findings in a poster presentation at the OR Manager meeting and will make a

podium presentation at the 2026 AORN Expo in New Orleans. She will present more detail on her work and attendees will have a chance to meet with her. If you are in New Orleans, consider attending this presentation. I believe it will be thought-provoking and informative. Congratulations Dr. Shelly Mason and welcome to the small group of perioperative nurses holding the Ph.D. degree.

– James X. Stobinski, Ph.D., RN, CNOR, CSSM(E), CNAMB(E), is the director of hospital and ASC relationships with National Institute of First Assisting (NIFA). He is also a member of the Central Michigan University faculty.

References 1. Kaldheim, H. K. A., Munday, J., Haddeland, K., & Fossum, M. (2025). Newly Graduated Perioperative Nurses' Experiences of Transitioning to Clinical Practice: A Qualitative Explorative Secondary Analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 81(6), 3252– 3267. https://doi.org/10.1111/ jan.16537 2. Redondo-Sáenz, D., CortésSalas, C, & Parrales-Mora, M. (2023). Perioperative Nursing Role in Robotic Surgery: An . Integrative Review. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, Volume 38, Issue 4, 636 – 641 3. Smith, J. & Palesy, D. (2018).

Technology stress in perioperative nursing: An ongoing concern.

Journal of Perioperative Nursing, 31(2), Article 3. https://doi. org/10.26550/2209-1092.1028

WE BUY AND SELL PRE-OWNED MEDICAL IMAGING EQUIPMENT. TOSHIBA • GE • PHILIPS • SIEMENS AND MORE!

SERVICES WE PROVIDE: DISTRIBUTOR FOR CUSTOM BUILT SURGICAL TABLES DEINSTALL ALL MANUFACTURES & MODALITIES

ALL MANUFACTURES & MODALITIES PUTTING CUSTOMERS FIRST, SINCE 1987 Website: www.InternationalXrayBrokers.com Email: admin@intxray.com Call: 508.730.9544 or 508.559.9441

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

WOMAN OWNED BUSINESS

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

17

A Mini-Expo with Major Impact: Southeast Periop Conference Delivers Education, Innovation, and Inspiration

Attendees hailed the event as engaging, collaborative, and transformative—with top-tier speakers and unprecedented vendor participation.

The 2025 Southeast Councils of periOperative Nurses Conference welcomed many high-level attendees including AORN President-Elect David Reinhart (left) and seven past presidents in Holly Ervine (2021-2022), Brenda Ulmer (2000-2001), Sheila L. Allen (2001-2002), Nathalie Walker (2017-2018), Vangie Dennis (2022-2023), Ruth Shumaker (1998-1999) and Bill Duffy (2004-2005).

Excellent, Applicable, Professional, Fun, Informative and Collaborative” are words attendees used to describe the 2025 Southeast Councils of periOperative Nurses Conference in Florida.

"

Attendees also described the conference as: “Awesome, Educational, Amazing, Engaging, Thought Provoking, Inspirational, Empowering and Fabulous.”

“It was awesome!” exclaimed Cleide Vanhorne, a procedural surgical RN at Broward Health Imperial Point in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Building on the success of the inaugural conference in 2024, this year’s event celebrated “The Power of You: Circles of Care.” The theme “Circles of Care” highlighted how perioperative nurses create safe, supportive environments for 18

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

patients and each other, ensuring highquality care through every procedure.

Conference facilitator and former AORN President Brenda C. Ulmer was asked if the conference and events like it improve collaboration between industry and perioperative professionals?

“Yes, because it puts the attendees in close contact with industry representatives in their own geographic area,” Ulmer said.

“I received many emails from exhibitors who were extremely happy with the conference. We had many return vendors this year, which is a testament to their satisfaction with the experience they had last year.”

“This is important because the collaboration between industry and perioperative nurses is at the core of how the blend of the two groups translates into outstanding care of perioperative patients. When AORN was founded by

Edith Dee Hall in 1949, it was an industry partner, Charles Riall of Davis and Geck, who helped the founding nurses organize and spread the word about the new organization of nurses caring for surgical patients.”

The goal to bring perioperative professionals together was achieved in Florida.

More than 300 perioperative professionals from healthcare facilities and leading companies made for a packed exhibit hall. Everyone was able to connect with approximately 50 different companies and learn about the leading products and solutions designed specifically for the surgical environment.

“Our country’s healthcare system is in a state of disruption, and our vendors can be critical partners to help us meet patient needs when everyone is working to reduce inventories and do more on-demand WWW.ORTODAY.COM

ADDITIONAL CONFERENCE

Highlights supplies. But it is hard to have a trust in a vendor if they are strangers to us,” said “We had about 7 Bill Duffy, RN, MJ CNOR, FAAN, a past past presidents in president of AORN and an independent nurse educator/consultant. “As much as attendance, which products are fairly similar, I can see folks is a testament to making usage purchases based on costs, the fellowship but the reality is there is more to products than just cost. Are folks familiar with how the conference is it is used, how to store it, how to get more engendering.” in an urgent situation? Do the reps teach, - Brenda C. Ulmer are they responsive? To me, that is almost as important as the product itself.”

Additional conference highlights included: • 10 CE Contact Hours from the California Board of Registered Nurses • 6 CE Contact Hours from the Association of Surgical Technologists • $768 raised in scholarship funds to attend the 2026 conference • Hundreds of silent auction items donated • Dozens of door prizes given away The amount of positive interaction among colleagues and the quality of attendees were two standout aspects of the conference.

“The engagement at the Southeast Perioperative Conference met and exceeded our expectations. We had strong attendance throughout the sessions, and participants were highly interactive with questions and follow-ups. Several attendees reached out afterward for additional resources and collaboration opportunities, which was a great indicator of sustained interest,” said Vangie Dennis, MSN, RN, CMLSO, CNOR, FAORN, FAAN. “I’d add that the Southeast Perioperative Conference continues to demonstrate how valuable it is for perioperative professionals to come together around shared purpose and innovation,” she added. “The conversations, education, and

10 CE Contact Hours from the California Board of Registered Nurses

6 CE Contact Hours from the Association of Surgical Technologists

$768 raised in scholarship funds to attend the 2026 conference Hundreds of silent auction items donated

Perioperative Leaders Presented DAISY Awards The Southeast Councils of periOperative Nurses (GA/FL/ NC/SC/TN) presented a DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award and a DAISY PeriOperative Nurse Leader Award at the 2025 conference.

Dr. David A. Reinhart, DNP, MBA, RN, CNOR, FAAN, was presented a DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a distinguished leader in perioperative nursing education and practice. He currently serves as the director of nursing education for the perioperative services enterprise at Emory Healthcare in Atlanta, Georgia. Leadership at Emory Healthcare, with over 37 years of experience in perioperative nursing, Dr. Reinhart has held various roles, including nurse's aide, surgical technologist, staff nurse,

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

supervisor, manager and director. In his current position, he oversees education and training across multiple procedural areas, such as operating rooms, pre- and postanesthesia care units, endoscopy, catheterization labs and interventional radiology.

Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, was honored to receive is a a DAISY PeriOperative Nurse Leader Award. She is seasoned perioperative nurse with over 20 years of experience. “She serves as a Perioperative Educational Consultant for Periop Anew and as Surgical Services Supervisor at WakeMed Cary Hospital in North Carolina. Her career is marked by a strong commitment to patient safety, nursing

education and professional advocacy,” her nomination read in part.

The DAISY Award is an international recognition program started in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Pat’s family experienced first-hand the difference his nurses made in his care through clinical excellence and outstanding compassionate care. The family created The DAISY Award to express gratitude to nurses and to enable other patients, families and staff to thank and honor their special nurses.

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

19

collaboration that happen here don’t end when the conference does, they carry back into operating rooms across the region and influence practice in meaningful ways. It’s an event that truly strengthens the perioperative community.

I’d like readers to know just how much energy and connection this conference brings to the perioperative community.

Beyond the sessions and exhibits, it’s the sense of support, mentorship, and shared experience that makes it special. Whether you’re a new nurse or a seasoned leader, you walk away feeling inspired and connected. The Southeast Perioperative Conference is a powerful blend of education, innovation and community.

It brings together people who share a passion for improving perioperative care and creates space for meaningful collaboration.”

Attendees also compared the event to the much larger AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo.

“Other than at Expo, this conference had the most vendors of any meetings/ conference that I’ve been to,” said Iris Sanchez RN-Retired.

“It’s a mini-Expo and you are allotted ample time to engage with participants and vendors. This is the second one I have attended, and it has been excellent, from the speakers to the location,” said Karen Lemmons, RN, BSN, CNOR, who works at Randolph Health.

When asked if the event’s theme “The

20

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

Power of You: Circles of Care” resonated with him, Duffy exclaimed, “Yes!” “I think the reason I was asked to present my presentation is my passion for helping nurses see the value in what they do. We have too many nurses who lose

"Beyond the sessions and exhibits, it’s the sense of support, mentorship, and shared experience that makes it special.

Whether you’re a new nurse or a seasoned leader, you walk away feeling inspired and connected."

- Vangie Dennis

sight of the great things we do to improve people’s lives,” he said. “That is why burnout and folks leaving the profession is so rampant. Helping nurses reconnect (or strengthen their connection) to their professional identity can help them stave off frustrations and disillusionment.

Nurses achieve great outcomes for their patients but sometimes we are so busy dealing with challenge after challenge that we lose sight of our value. Themes like this are important as we have to nurse our nurses so they can better nurse their patients.”

Ulmer said a selecting a theme “sets the tone to allow for putting together an outstanding conference.”

“When trying to come up with a relevant theme, I start with looking back at what the themes have been for AORN’s national conference since its inception – I have a list going back decades. This year, I kept going back to the 2002 them Sheila Allen used, ‘Circles of Care’ as demonstrating the power of what perioperative nurses do every day. I didn’t mention to anyone about the origin part of the theme. After we published the theme, Sheila Allen called me and said, ‘That was my theme!’ I just said, ‘I know – it was a good one!’”

“Sheila Allen ended up joining us for the second conference,” Ulmer added. “We had about 7 past presidents in attendance, which is a testament to the fellowship the conference is engendering.”

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Save the Date for the 2026 conference!

November 14-15, 2026 | Hilton Head Island, SC southeastperiop.com

Allen is now a retired perioperative nurse consultant. She appreciated the conference’s theme and message.

“I genuinely believe in the power of the individual perioperative nurse to make a difference every single day. I was honored to serve as national AORN President 2001-2002 and ‘Circles of Care’ was the theme I selected because of my personal journey with AORN. We are all on a journey throughout our lives; and life has a way of circling us back to basics, events, values, or locations that have meaning to our personal or professional growth,” Allen said.

“Events like this are the keystone of continuing education and collaboration between industry and perioperative nursing,” she said. “The information gained during these exchanges of information are truly a gift exchange. The medical industry grows and develops at astounding speed and innovative nurses continue to work with our partners in industry to develop tools to make patients safer and our jobs more efficient.”

Several attendees described the conference as “educational.” The conference was approved for 6 CE credits by the Association of Surgical Technologists Inc. for continuing

education for the Certified Surgical Technologist, Certified Surgical First Assistant, and Associate members of AST. This recognition does not imply that AST approves or endorses any product or products that are included in presentations.

Attendees were not shy when asked about their favorite presentations. Allen said she enjoyed former AORN President Bill Duffy’s session.

“Bill Duffy because he reminded us why what we do is important. Actually, every one of the speakers was engaging and obviously passionate about their subject. The whole conference was really great. Thank you all,” she said.

Duffy presented “It’s A Wonderful Life: How Your Nursing Care Has Impacted the World Around You.” Duffy compared nurses to the George Bailey character in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

His talk highlighted the true impact of a nurse’s care. He explored how being present means more than technical expertise in that the true meaning of being a nurse changes the lives of those they serve. The session was a celebration of nursing.

Attendees also listed the following sessions among their favorites:

• “Peer Messengers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Safety, Support, and Respect in the Work Environment” • “It Shouldn’t Hurt to Go to Work: Creating Safe Circles of Care” • “Won’t You Be My Neighbor? The Power of You – Circles of Care, Catalysts for Change” Presentations are available for download at southeastperiop.com/education/.

“I think it had more engaging sessions than congress, more intimate. Officers from AORN were more approachable, you could speak with them, there were right there with us,” said Zdzislawa Czechowski.

Allen encourages perioperative nurses to plan to attend future conferences.

“Any time you can attend such a conference to enrich your education, connections, and professional experiences, ‘seize the day!’ As Dr. Seuss (wrote), “Oh the places you’ll go…” There is so much to learn from each other because our experiences are different and offer opportunities for growth,” Allen said. “Our colleagues, leaders, industry partners all contribute to the body of knowledge that joins with our compassionate hearts to provide the safest, most efficient care to the patients to whom we serve.”

To see educational highlights and photos from the event, visit southeastperiop.com.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

21

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS ASCA

ASCA’s Legislative and Regulatory Accomplishments in 2025

By Bill Prentice he ambulatory surgery

T center (ASC) market

evolved markedly in 2025.

Many centers expanded service lines to add spine, cardiovascular or total joint procedures and adopted technologies, such as robotics, AI, telehealth and advanced electronic health records. To help surgery centers navigate the transitions, the Ambulatory Surgery Center Association’s (ASCA) work became more critical than ever. We helped ASCs shift from simpler outpatient procedures to higher-acuity cases and provided the regulatory and business guidance they needed. We advocated for the ASC community and provided education in the form of virtual courses, benchmarking surveys and our annual in-person conference.

22

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

Our advocacy efforts last year covered myriad regulatory, clinical and operational issues.

In February, ASCA sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Acting Administrator Stephanie Carlton outlining its top priorities for 2026 rulemaking. We highlighted several policy areas that would allow ASCs to better serve the Medicare population and requested that CMS do the following.

• Continue use of the hospital market basket as the annual update mechanism for ASC payments, as initially established during the first Trump administration. This will ensure better alignment of the ASC and hospital outpatient department (HOPD) payment systems.

• Add procedures to the ASC Covered Procedures List (ASCCPL) when clinicians provide outcomes data supporting their inclusion.

• Reassess measures added in recent

years to the ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program that only increase the burden on facilities without providing any benefit to patients or healthcare facilities.

In the same month, ASCA coled a coalition letter written to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Chairman Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-VT) expressing concerns about proposed price transparency legislation and its potential negative impact on surgery centers.

The letter, sent in partnership with the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, argued that proposals requiring ASCs to publicly disclose “de-identified maximum and minimum negotiated charges” would be administratively burdensome and fail to provide useful information to patients. ASCA believes that current regulations, including the No Surprises Act, provide an appropriate framework WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS ASCA

for patients to access accurate cost estimates.

In May, Senators Bill Cassidy, MD, (R-LA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Senate version of the Medicare Beneficiary Co-Pay Fairness Act (H.R. 3006/S. 1776). This followed the House introduction in April by Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Robert Menendez Jr. (D-NJ), Troy Balderson (R-OH) and John Larson (D-CT).

ASCA drafted the language and advocated for the introduction of this legislation, which proposes to cap the maximum Medicare copayment for procedures performed in ASCs at the inpatient deductible.

If passed, the bill will align ASC copayments with those in HOPDs, preventing beneficiaries from paying more for the same procedure simply because of the care setting.

In June, ASCA submitted comments in response to the Department of Justice (DOJ) Antitrust Division’s RFI on unnecessary laws and regulations that pose high barriers to competition. This RFI was announced in conjunction with the DOJ’s establishment of the Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force “to advocate for the elimination of anticompetitive state and federal laws and regulations that undermine free market competition and harm consumers, workers and businesses.” ASCA’s comment letter emphasized the ease of converting an ASC to an HOPD, while highlighting the barriers in doing the reverse.

It also identified CMS payment policy issues that serve as barriers to competition, including the agency’s refusal to add certain codes to the ASC-CPL. In September, ASCA submitted WWW.ORTODAY.COM

formal comments in response to CMS’ 2026 proposed payment rule for ASCs and HOPDs. In the comments, ASCA supported CMS’ proposal to broadly expand the list of procedures allowed to be performed in ASCs, and agreed with CMS that clinicians are the stakeholders best suited to determine the appropriate site of service for their patients. ASCA’s comments also reflected ongoing advocacy for

“We’re helping ASCs move from routine outpatient procedures to higher-acuity care with confidence and clarity.”

continued alignment of inflationary update factors between ASCs and HOPDs and the elimination of the budgetary adjustment that continues to severely depress rates for important Medicare procedures like cataract removals.

With regards to quality reporting, ASCA expressed support for the removal of four measures from the ASCQR Program that held little applicability to meaningful measurement of a surgery center’s operational quality.

Also in September, during National Advocacy Day, ASCA members and staff, representing 30 states, met with 122 members of Congress and their staff to help educate federal legislators about the ASC community and secure further support for the Medicare Beneficiary Co-Pay Fairness Act. In October, ASCA sent a letter to CMS requesting a delay of the five-year prior authorization demonstration for certain services provided in ASCs that was set to begin on December 15. The demonstration project would impact 10 states: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Texas. In addition to concerns about the demonstration project in general, ASCA does not believe that the Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) are equipped to handle the new prior authorization requests, especially given the government shutdown.

Looking Ahead Last year, ASCA built on its foundational mission and accomplished goals in advocacy, quality, education and growth.

As surgery centers take on more complex cases and adapt to evolving healthcare economics, ASCA’s role as the source of best practices, strategies and advocacy becomes ever more important.

Looking ahead, we are positioned to address upcoming challenges, such as more complex procedures migrating to ASCs, tighter labor markets, cost and reimbursement pressures and regulatory shifts.

Our continued emphasis on benchmarking, quality, member education and advocacy will be key to helping ASCs thrive.

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

23

CORPORATE PROFILE Ruhof

Protecting Patients Through Innovation: Ruhof’s Approach to Instrument Cleaning n 1976, Frank Bass and Bernard Esquenet teamed up to create The Ruhof Corporation. Frank Bass’s role in the company is one of sales, marketing and research while Bernard Esquenet is the chemist behind Ruhof’s success.

I

Prior to the launch of Ruhof, Frank recognized the need for hospitals to use more than simple dishwashing detergent in cleaning surgical instruments. Bernard had created cleaning solutions for the Navy, which were used to clean barnacles and other crustaceous marine residues from the heat ex-changers and water evaporators of submarines and other naval vessels. When Frank Bass approached him to develop cleaning solutions for hospital instruments, Esquenet realized that the enzymes he was using to eat away at the marine organism residues would also dissolve proteins off surgical instruments. Thus, Protozyme, the very first enzymatic cleaner for surgical instrumentation was born along with Surgistain, a product for refurbishing corroded stainless steel instruments.

Since then, Ruhof has dedicated itself to the research, development and manufacturing of state-of-theart products to ensure the complete cleaning and reprocessing of all surgical instruments and scopes.

Addressing the ever-increasing concern of cross contamination in hospitals, Ruhof’s research and development department revolutionized the cleaning 24

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

SPONSORED CONTENT

industry with its multi-tiered enzymatic detergents and sponges, cleaning brushes, pre-treatment foams/sprays, cleaning verification products and more.

Additionally, the comprehensive ScopeValet line of endoscopy products supports the steps of the scope reprocessing cycle from bedside cleaning through to transport and storage. These GI offerings help endoscopy suites improve operating efficiencies while adhering to guidelines and protecting patients and staff alike.

Q: What are some advantages that your company has over the competition?

A: Ruhof Healthcare sells the only enzymatic detergent on the market (ENDOZIME BIO-CLEAN) clinically tested to pass the difficult ISO standard 15883 Annex F by dissolving biofilm and exposing underlying bacteria to high-level disinfectants or liquid chemical sterilants. Our products are of the highest quality available, and we offer the most complete line of surgical instrument cleaning, scope cleaning, and reprocessing supplies in the marketplace.

In addition, the company is innovative, continually developing new products and technologies that clean, protect, comply, and verify to meet the needs of our customers.

Q. How have you been able to help with recent challenges faced by your customers?

A: Recent reports to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) of processing errors with flexible endoscopes have brought much attention to the importance of this issue. In general, while flexible endoscopes are inherently difficult to clean effectively due to their long narrow lumens and because they are used in highly contaminated areas of the body, the manual component of endoscope reprocessing appears to be the area most prone to error. As a result, revised guidelines from both the CDC and the AORN recommend the used of cleaning verification tests such as ATP bioluminescence, which has been shown

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

“We are always finding new solutions and new ways to help fight HAIs and to provide a safe work environment for patients and staff.”

process for the especially complex duodenoscope, an endoscope associated with outbreaks of Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections.

Q: Can you explain your company’s core competencies and unique selling points?

A: We are the only supplier of enzymatic detergents that manufactures its own product, guaranteeing consistency and quality. Ruhof is a registered ISO 14001 & ISO 13485 manufacturer, and we pride ourselves on the superior products we manufacture.

Q: What product or service that your company offers are you most excited about right now?

A: We’re excited to introduce a fresh brand identity for the ATP Complete 2 Contamination Monitoring System – now the CleanRead Contamination Monitoring System. This rebranding reflects our commitment to expanding beyond ATP testing to include protein testing and more.

to be both a rapid and effective method for assessing the efficacy of the cleaning process. Ruhof’s ATP Monitoring System, newly named the CleanRead Contamination Monitoring System, is a quick, simple, and reliable method for verifying the effectiveness of the cleaning and decontamination process for the outer surfaces and internal channels of scopes and cannulated instruments along with all non-critical facility surfaces. The CleanRead Contamination Monitoring System consists of a lightweight hand-held device, sampling tools – the CleanRead Surface ATP Detection Swab and Test InstruSponge – and easy to use software for tracking results. The system can also be used to test the efficacy of the cleaning

While users will continue to experience the same high-performing product, this change paves the way for future innovations. Our evolving product line includes the CleanRead ATP Test Swab, CleanRead Aqua ATP Detection Swab, and the CleanRead PRT Surface Protein Swab, with even more advancements on the horizon.

We’re also proud to present the Forever Wet Auto Sprayer – a breakthrough, portable delivery system that streamlines point-of-use pre-cleaning and helps protect instruments from biofilm risk.

Designed for use with Prepzyme® Forever Wet, our multi-layered enzymatic humectant, this batterypowered unit provides a consistent, automated application that keeps instruments moist for up to 72 hours and prevents the adhesion of bioburden. The Forever Wet Auto Sprayer minimizes user fatigue by eliminating hard-to-use trigger sprayers and can cover an entire tray of instruments in half the time!

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

25

CORPORATE PROFILE Ruhof

Q: Can you share some company success stories with our readers?

A: Ruhof often receives positive feedback from customers regarding cost savings. Perioperative and sterile processing professionals regularly tell us that they get better results and more cleaning efficacy using much less of our detergent than other brands. In addition, we receive many reports about product effectiveness. Recently a nurse contacted us about how Ruhof really “saved the day” for her. All other detergents failed to remove an unusual yellow/orange oily deposit from the scopes she was cleaning but our Endozime SLR enzymatic cleaner – which specializes in removing synthetic lipid residue – did the trick and she has been a loyal customer since.

26

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

Q: How does Ruhof support customers?

A: Ruhof has a most knowledgeable and responsive customer service department and sales team ready to help our customers with questions, orders, troubleshooting, etc. Our user-friendly website and informative technical data sheets/IFUs also provide support. We offer a program of free accredited continuing education for nurses and CS/SPD techs, as we understand that ongoing education, training and mentoring are critical to the success of any clinical department.

These CE opportunities are offered at national and local trade shows, as well as right on our website www.ruhof. com/pages/education.

Q: What is your company’s mission statement?

At Ruhof, we understand the importance of cleanliness in the healthcare field and are guided by our commitment to excellence. We demonstrate this by offering reliable solutions and individualized service to help healthcare facilities meet and exceed their decontamination and infection prevention challenges. We are always finding new solutions and new ways to help fight HAIs and to provide a safe work environment for patients and staff.

We value our customers as much as the patients that they care for.

For more information, visit ruhof.com.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Introducing

THE NEXT GENERATION

of Contamination Monitoring Technology

by

For the cleaning verification of surgical instruments, endoscopes, and surfaces, CleanRead™ Handheld is a cloud-based cleaning monitoring system used to help hospitals and other healthcare organizations achieve optimal standardized cleaning levels.

ADVANCED FEATURES • • • • • • •

SMART HANDHELD MOBILE PLATFORM CLOUD-BASED WI-FI CONNECTIVITY INFINITE USERS & TEST POINTS CUSTOMIZABLE DASHBOARD RFID READER / BARCODE READER USER FRIENDLY INTERFACE

ACHIEVE CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT IN EVERY DEPARTMENT • • • •

ENDOSCOPY STERILE PROCESSING OPERATING ROOM ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES, etc.

393 Sagamore Ave. Mineola, NY 11501 • 1 (800) 537-8463 (516) 294-5888 • Fax (516) 248-6456 E-Mail: ruhof@ruhof.com • www.ruhof.com

AD-081 Rev0 022625

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

news & notes

ACHC Unveils New Brand Campaign The Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) is charting a new course for accreditation with the launch of its brand campaign, “THE Accreditation CHOICE for Health Care.” A news release states that the campaign positions ACHC as the standard-bearer for modern accreditation – built on integrity, alignment and genuine partnership with healthcare organizations.

“At a time when many accrediting bodies are reinventing themselves by removing the burdens they once created, ACHC stands firm on what has always set it apart – a practical, purpose-driven model that prioritizes customer experience and helps organizations thrive through collaboration and support,” the release states.

“Accreditation should empower, not encumber,” said José Domingos, president and CEO of ACHC. “While others market simplification as innovation, ACHC has always focused on meaningful quality improvement. We’ve never imposed the unnecessary burdens that others are now trying to undo.”

Supported by a new video, “THE Choice,” and a refreshed digital presence at ACHC.org, the campaign brings to life ACHC’s “smart, CMS-aligned model – streamlined, education-first and focused on helping healthcare organizations achieve excellence.”

ACHC’s brand refresh takes aim at what it calls “Accreditation Theater” – burdensome, punitive,

performative approaches designed more to impress than to improve. The campaign underscores ACHC’s commitment to: • Meaningful Standards: CMSaligned and patient-centered with no duplicative or non-essential requirements.

• True Partnership: Collaborative, respectful surveys led by accessible experts and account advisors.

• Education-First Support: Resources and guidance that build confidence, not confusion.

• Consistency and Clarity: A process rooted in transparency and continuous improvement.

“Today’s healthcare leaders need an accreditor who respects their time, understands their reality and shares their values,” Domingos added. “ACHC’s model reflects where healthcare is headed – not where it’s been.”

As part of the campaign, ACHC also embraces its identity as proud “Accreditation Nerds” – a confident, customer-obsessed culture that celebrates expertise, collaboration and passion for quality patient care.

The organization’s “Accreditation Nerds” platform showcases ACHC’s approachable, education-driven personality through relatable storytelling, social media engagement and thought leadership.

PREFcards Secures Patent for Surgical Preference Card Optimization PREFcards, a provider of surgical preference card optimization software, has been granted U.S. Patent No. 12,308,115, titled "Automated Data Aggregation with File Analysis and Predictive Modeling."

The patented technology drives PREFcards’ ability to streamline the management, editing and standardization of procedural data across multiple surgeons and specialties via an intuitive and scalable platform.

This technology empowers OR teams to work smarter without overhauling existing systems. PREFcards’ platform integrates easily with current hospital workflows and is used across leading institutions seeking to drive efficiency

28

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

and improve patient care – from U.S. military and VA hospitals to commercial hospitals and ASCs. PREFcards is a healthcare SaaS company dedicated to modernizing how hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) manage surgical preference cards. By digitizing and intelligently standardizing these tools, PREFcards enables surgical teams to eliminate inaccurate itemized billing, reduce unnecessary surgical supply waste and standardize procedures across providers.

For information, visit prefcards.com.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

ONE OF THE LARGEST

Inventories of Light Bulbs, Batteries & Replacement Parts in the World! interlightus.com |

(610) 757-8633

|

7939 New Jersey Ave, Hammond, IN 46323

Email Jeff Van Etten, Sales Director jeffrey@interlightus.com

Shop online with us! interlightus.com

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

news & notes

New ROSA Knee Robotic Technology Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc. has announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance of ROSA Knee with OptimiZe, an enhanced version of its ROSA Knee System that offers a more customized experience for surgeons to help deliver accurate and reproducible outcomes in robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery.

“ROSA Knee with OptimiZe personalizes the surgeon's experience with customized intelligent surgical planning and new positioning, tracking and alignment features to help ensure accuracy and reduce user variability,” a company news release states. “The technology provides a simplified user interface that allows surgeons to choose the information they want to see, when they want to see it.”

"More and more surgeons are integrating robotic technologies, because they empower surgeons to achieve better outcomes for patients," said Dr. Peter Sculco, hip and knee replacement surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. "ROSA Knee with OptimiZe expands on existing benefits of ROSA Knee by giving surgeons new tools to reduce landmark variability to optimize implant placement and reproducibility. The enhancement also provides more options to maintain an individualized surgical approach to optimize patient outcomes and surgeon confidence."

Designed for use with the industry leading Persona Knee System, ROSA Knee with OptimiZe enables surgeons who use functional alignment to use customizable surgeon profiles that systematically provide surgical plans to automatically position the implant and balance the knee

30

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

based on the patient's own anatomy and the surgeon's preferences. For surgeons who prefer kinematic alignment, the system offers the industry's only automated kinematic alignment feature to resurface the knee with the goal of restoring its pre-arthritic position and native joint lines.

"As a leader in advancing innovation in orthopedic robotics, we are committed to improving and enhancing our robotic technologies to better meet the needs of surgeons and improve efficiency in the OR, with the ultimate goal of delivering better outcomes for patients," said Shaun Braun, senior vice president and chief information and technology officer at Zimmer Biomet. "ROSA Knee with OptimiZe was designed in partnership with our seasoned team of ROSA surgeons to make robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery more personalized, accurate and efficient for surgeons. With our proprietary algorithm, OptimiZe Planning, surgeons can create customized profiles that generate personalized surgical plans, which can reduce planning time by an average of 46%."

The news release states that the ROSA Knee with OptimiZe features five key enhancements to the ROSA Knee System: • OptimiZe Planning: Creates a customized surgical plan to guide implant positioning based on surgeon individual knee balancing preferences.

• OptimiZe Landmarking: Easy-to-use painting feature reduces user landmarking variability.

• OptimiZe Tracking: Collaborative resections with motionsensitive Active Track eliminate the need for pinning the Cut Guide to the bone and allows bony resections to remain on plane even with leg movement.

• OptimiZe Kinematic Alignment: Automated kinematic alignment plan based on bony landmarks, to resurface the knee to its pre-arthritic position.

• OptimiZe Experience: Simplified user interface allows the surgeon to choose specific workflow and display options to tailor user experience for every case.

ROSA Knee with OptimiZe integrates with ZBEdge Analytics to enable surgeons to make data-driven intraoperative decisions, objectively assess their performance and understand the potential impact of clinical decisions on patient recovery.

Zimmer Biomet will conduct a targeted release of ROSA Knee with OptimiZe with commercial availability in the U.S. expected in the first quarter of 2026.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Safe & Efficient Healthcare Solutions Innovative Technologies for a Broad Range of Your Facility’s Needs

Perioperative Solutions

Clinical Business Intelligence Solutions

Design & Architectural Solutions

Sterile Processing Solutions

Scan to Learn More!

For your inquiries, please email info@skytron.com.

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

news & notes

Barco Adopts NVIDIA to Bring Real-Time AI to OR Barco, a leader in visualization and collaboration technology, plans to integrate the newly launched NVIDIA IGX Thor robotics processor into its medical solutions portfolio. More specifically, Barco will integrate the NVIDIA IGX Thor platform in NexxisCompute, Barco’s platform enabling AI and advanced processing applications at the edge in high stakes environments such as operating rooms and interventional radiology labs. By adopting IGX Thor, Barco continues its commitment to driving innovation and reliability at the edge, empowering customers with unprecedented AI performance and advanced safety features.

NexxisCompute is engineered to remove hardware complexity for application developers by providing a seamless, ready-to-use foundation that eliminates the need for managing diverse and evolving hardware requirements. As a platform, NexxisCompute is capable of running multiple AI applications concurrently, allowing hospitals and healthcare providers to deploy and orchestrate a variety of advanced tools without being locked into a single vendor or workflow.

On top of that, the integration of advanced quality assurance features ensures that Barco's medical edge AI solutions maintain the highest standards of accuracy and compliance, contributing to reliability in critical healthcare environments.

The integration of cutting-edge technology like NVIDIA

32

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

IGX Thor further strengthens Barco’s ability to deliver on this vision, enabling even greater flexibility, scalability and performance for a rapidly evolving ecosystem of medical AI solutions.

The NVIDIA IGX Thor platform combines integrated (iGPU) and discrete (dGPU) NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs, delivering an impressive 5,581 FP4 teraflops of AI compute and high-speed 400 GbE connectivity. IGX Thor enables up to 8x greater AI compute on iGPUs and 2.5x higher AI compute on dGPUs compared to previous generations, with twice the connectivity. These capabilities allow Barco to seamlessly run large language models and vision language models, powering the next generation of edge AI applications in demanding healthcare environments.

In this way, IGX Thor will support Barco in its vision to become the most complete and performant edge AI platform for integrated operating rooms.

Barco will leverage the industrial-grade durability of the IGX Thor platform, featuring a 10-year life cycle and robust support for the NVIDIA AI software stack, including NVIDIA AI Enterprise, NIM microservices and Holoscan for sensor processing.

For more information, visit medicallasersafety.com.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

ENVIRON-MATE

®

DM6000 SERIES

DM6000-2A Arthroscopy Urology

Optional Fluid Totalizer

DM6000 Utility/SPD

DM6000-2 Endoscopy FM99

Pays for itself in one year!

No more canisters!

• Eliminate staff exposure • Reduce turnaround time

• Save canister & solidifier costs • Check cost saving on our website

Use the DM6000 for your project!

• Surgery, endoscopy, SPD • Requires vacuum, electrical & drain

unlimited fluid capacity!

FILTER/MANIFOLD PROVIDES 4 CONNECTIONS FOR SCOPE, SHAVER AND FLUID COLLECTORS. 500CC CAPACITY!

ELIMINATE THESE!

S

y

46”

PROMETHEAN ISLAND® 4400 FLOOR MAT

30”

• Collect fluids before they reach the floor • Accurately measure spilled irrigation fluids • Reduce post-op clean-up/turnaround time Screw toptop minimizes risk ofrisk C. Diff.

Screw minimizes of C. Diff.

P.O. BOX 60 • GALENA, ILLINOIS 61036 PH: (815) 624-3010 • FAX: (815) 624-3011 www.mdtechnologiesinc.com

Systems require plumbing most conveniently installed during new construction or remodeling.

CALL US BEFORE YOU BUILD OR REMODEL! 800-201-3060

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

news & notes

Augmedics AR Headset Earns FDA Clearance Augmedics, a pioneer in augmented reality (AR) surgical navigation, recently announced FDA 510(k) clearance of X2, its next-generation AR headset for use with the xvision Spine System.

Unlike consumer-grade AR headsets intended for educational or entertainment use, the proprietary X2 headset is purpose built for surgery. The all-new form factor is designed to maximize comfort, balance and wearability in the operating room. X2 features a detachable, surgical-grade headlight and novel lens tilt to support surgeon ergonomics for standing and seated procedures.

X2 is also outfitted with enhanced technical and optical specifications to augment the surgical experience. The transparent AR display features a 100% increase in field of view and image resolution with improved brightness relative

to its predecessor. With a high-performance processor and more power-efficient design, X2 builds on Augmedics’ firstgeneration headset to deliver advanced augmented reality visualization.

“Augmedics was a pioneer in the field with the first AR guidance system to be used in surgery. We have continued to be a leader in the space with more than 12,000 patients treated with our first-generation technology,” said Augmedics President & CEO Paul Ziegler. “With that foundation established, we’re entering a new era in Augmedics history. X2 is a significant step forward and represents a proprietary platform for long-term procedural innovation.”

Augmedics introduced X2 at the North American Spine Society (NASS) Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado.

AAAHC Announces New Board Leadership The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC) has announced its newly named board officers and elected directors. These experienced leaders bring diverse expertise in patient-centered ambulatory care, supporting AAAHC’s mission to advance quality improvement and strengthen accreditation standards across the healthcare continuum.

“This board exemplifies the leadership, expertise and passion that define AAAHC and the ambulatory community we serve,” said Noel Adachi, MBA, president and CEO of AAAHC. “Together, these accomplished professionals bring the insight and commitment needed to advance our vision – driving measurable improvements in patient care, deepening engagement across our stakeholders, and strengthening systems that support readiness every day of the 1,095-day accreditation cycle.”

Designed for ambulatory care, powered by expertise, and driven by readiness, this board will help shape the next chapter of AAAHC’s impact – ensuring that quality, safety and excellence remain at the heart of ambulatory health care, according to a news release.

The new board officers’ one-year terms began Nov. 17.

They are: • Steven Butz, MD, Board Chair, practices pediatric anesthesiology in the Milwaukee area. He holds board

34

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

certifications in anesthesia and pediatric anesthesia by the American Board of Anesthesiology.

• Lawrence Kim, MD, Board Chair-Elect, has been an active AAAHC volunteer for more than 20 years and has served in numerous roles including AAAHC Surveyor and most recently, Secretary/Treasurer.

• Joy Himmel, Psy.D, LCPC, NCC, RN, FACHA, Immediate Past Board Chair, was the first licensed behavioral health provider elected as AAAHC Board Chair, the sixth female Board Chair, and the third college health professional elected to the position in the organization’s history.

• Additionally, Valerie Kiefer, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, will serve the first year of her first two-year term as AAAHC Secretary/Treasurer.

The five elected directors, whose three-year terms will expire in 2028, also assumed their positions Nov. 17. They are: • M. Edmund Braly, DDS, FACS • Jan Brown, RN, BSHM, CPHQ • Ira Cheifetz, DMD • Temple O. Robinson, MD • Arnaldo Valedon, MD, MBA For more information, visit aaahc.org/governance/.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

webinar recap

Webinar Explores OR & SPD Working Better Together he recent OR Today

T webinar “Two Sides of the

Same Tray: OR & SPD Working Better Together” was sponsored by Surgical Solutions and presented by Elizabeth “Betty” Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, senior vice president of clinical operations, Surgical Solutions; Nate Peak, vice president of operations, Surgical Solutions; and Phillip Wade Wilson, regional operations director, Surgical Solutions. This webinar is eligible for 1 CE credit. OR Today is approved and licensed to be a Continuing Education Provider with the California Board of Registered Nurses, License #16623.

Managing today’s surgical services is more complex than ever. Advanced procedures, shifting IFUs and more oversight have stretched perioperative teams across the board. Success in the OR depends on seamless collaboration with SPD, but often these two critical areas work in silos. This session reframes WWW.ORTODAY.COM

the challenge as an opportunity: by bridging the gap between OR and SPD, healthcare professionals at all levels can reduce risk, improve communication and deliver stronger outcomes for patients.

In this interactive discussion, the presenters shared knowledge from their experiences. They have “walked the walk” and are working side by side with OR and SPD teams in hospitals across the nation. Their insightful real-world stories from the field included best-practice tips and strategies for adapting to the rapidly changing demands of surgical services. Together, they explored challenges, opportunities and the “future state” of OR/SPD collaboration.

This was a popular webinar with the second most registrations and attendees of 2025. More than 100 healthcare professionals logged in for the live presentation. A recording of the webinar is available for ondemand streaming at ORToday.com under the “Webinars” tab.

Charlotte Dorsey, a retired quality and infection control professional in Georgia won an OR Today cooler

lunch bag during the webinar.

Attendees provided positive feedback about the webinar and OR Today magazine in a post-webinar survey. One survey question asked, “Why do you read OR Today magazine?”

“Informative articles,” Dorsey said.

“For new information,” said Dean Palmer, a biomed supervisor with Texoma Medical Center.

“Industry insights, education and best practices,” said Kelly Setzer, director business development with Surgical Solutions.

“It's to help me keep up with the latest information that is going to benefit my knowledge to provide the patient's safety and best surgical outcome,” said Lisa Davis, operating room RN. “To keep up to date and gain valuable insight in the industry,” said John Harper, interim supervisor at Trios Health Southridge Hospital.

“To bring new ideas to my team,” said Jude Cashier, OR nurse manager at FF Thompson Hospital.

For more information, visit ORTodayWebinars.live.

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

35

IN THE OR

market analysis

Infection Prevention Market Growth Continues ccording to Nova One

A Advisor, the global infection

control market size was estimated at $227.21 billion in 2024 and is expected to hit around $438.67 billion by 2034, poised to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2034.

The technological advancements in sterilization techniques, conduction of clinical trials for infection control, increasing need for battling antibiotic resistance and the rising incidences of hospital-acquired infections are driving the growth of the infection control market.

North America dominated the infection control market and accounted for the largest revenue share of over 31% in 2024. The growth of this region can be attributed to various factors such as the active implementation of policies and practices for preventing spread of infections in hospitals and communities.

Furthermore, the monitoring of potential outbreaks by healthcare facilities, promotion of antimicrobial stewardship programs, well-established healthcare infrastructure, strategies for battling drug resistant organisms and precautionary measures taken for preventing potential pandemics.

The U.S. dominated the infection control market in North America.

The stringent government policies and strategies for public safety against infections, guidelines implemented by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for evaluating infections and controlling them are driving market growth.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to grow rapidly over the forecast period. The rising government focus on implementing 36

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

infection control policies, increasing healthcare expenditure, adoption of advanced technologies for infection control, growing public awareness, comprehensive training programs for healthcare providers and the ongoing developments in innovative technologies and drugs for infection control are contributing to the growth in this region.

Furthermore, in July 2024, the Asia Pacific Society of Infection Control (APSIC) hosted an international conference in Indonesia for infection prevention and control illustrating the region’s readiness towards implementing infection control programs.

Furthermore, there is a rising awareness among people regarding rising infection rates and sudden outbreaks, surge in hospital-acquired infections, stringent regulations by government for infection control standards, novel innovations with advancements in sterilization and infection control techniques.

The digitalization of sterile processing helps in automating processes with improved tracking of medical devices, reducing human errors and implementing software for digital case management that will ultimately enhance the efficacy with reduced costs. Also, it significantly mitigates risk of infections thereby streamlining processes with improved quality of patient care The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in infection control can aid in early detection and efficient surveillance of potential outbreaks, patient risk stratification, optimizing hand hygiene practices, identifying potential contamination sources by analyzing data through environmental monitoring systems and to prevent healthcare-

associated infections (HAIs) which will eventually lead to improved patient safety and healthcare quality while mitigating the infection risks.

The hospital segment dominated the market for infection control and accounted for the largest revenue share of around 41% in 2024 and is also expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 7.4% over the forecast period from 2024 to 2034.

A PRNewswire report citing MarketsandMarkets also predicts continued market growth.

The global infection control market, valued at $54.32 billion in 2024, stood at $57.31 billion in 2025 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2030, culminating in a forecasted valuation of $77.67 billion by the end of the period, the report states.

The infection control market is experiencing significant growth driven by several key factors. The rising prevalence of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and the increasing number of surgical procedures underscore the critical need for effective infection prevention strategies. Advancements in reprocessing technologies enhance the efficiency and safety of sterilization processes, while the growing emphasis on sterilizing and disinfecting food products addresses public health concerns.

Innovations in sterilization equipment technology further improve outcomes by offering more reliable and advanced solutions. Additionally, the growing trend of outsourcing services among pharmaceutical companies, medical device manufacturers and hospitals reflects a strategic shift towards specialized infection control expertise, collectively fueling market expansion.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

IN THE OR

product focus

Healthmark Sterile Wipes Designed to support infection prevention and patient safety, Healthmark’s Sterile Wipes provide a simple yet essential step in the endoscope reprocessing workflow. These wipes are specifically intended for use per manufacturer Instructions for Use (IFUs) – to dry endoscopes and associated equipment after manual high-level disinfection, following removal from an automated endoscope reprocessor (AER), or to cover the distal tip of the endoscope during alcohol/air flushes. They can also be used to dry the basin and connectors of an AER, supporting effective moisture control throughout the process. Each wipe is manufactured from a synergistic blend of virgin polyester and cellulose, hydroentangled into a uniform, ultra-durable fabric. This construction delivers exceptional strength, absorbency and low linting – ideal for delicate medical instrumentation. Packaged sterile, the wipes are ready for immediate use wherever cleanliness and compliance matter most. With Healthmark’s Sterile Wipes, infection prevention teams can feel confident that every surface, connector and channel is handled with care – helping reduce the risk of contamination and supporting consistent, high-quality reprocessing practices.

Encompass Group

Thermoflect Heat Reflective Technology Encompass Group Thermoflect Heat Reflective Technology products significantly reduce the number of bath blankets required intraoperatively helping to lower lint and associated risks within operating rooms. Thermoflect Technology is a cost-effective alternative to bath blankets that not only reduces lint, but helps to maintain normothermia throughout the perioperative process also directly correlated with reducing the risk of SSI.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

37

IN THE OR

product focus

RUHOF CORPORATION Forever Wet Auto Sprayer The Ruhof Forever Wet Auto Sprayer is a battery-powered, portable spray unit designed for the efficient application of Prepzyme Forever Wet, a neutral pH, multi-tiered enzymatic humectant spray formulated with Bio-Clean Technology. This combination helps maintain moisture for up to 72 hours on soiled instruments and scopes, which is critical in preventing biofilm formation and dried-on debris. The Forever Wet Auto Sprayer provides a consistent and ergonomic method for applying the pre-cleaner, significantly reducing human error and ensuring compliance with reprocessing guidelines. The sprayer’s single-button operation reduces user fatigue minimizing strain compared to manual trigger sprayers. Durable, cordless and compact, it’s ideal for high-traffic settings such as ORs, central sterile, endoscopy suites and outpatient facilities.

MicroCare Medical Spec Clean Endoscope Sponge Patient safety starts the moment an endoscope leaves the procedure room. The Spec Clean Endoscope Sponge from MicroCare Medical delivers the first line of defense in endoscope reprocessing – offering a quick, effective and consistent way to remove bioburden before it dries.

The Spec Clean innovative open-cell design is pre-saturated with a neutral pH enzymatic detergent, ensuring thorough coverage across every contour of the scope. The result? Faster pre-cleaning with less residue and reduced risk of crosscontamination. Clinicians appreciate its single-use convenience, which eliminates variability and supports infection prevention protocols. The sponge’s soft, non-abrasive texture protects delicate endoscope surfaces, helping extend equipment life and reduce costly repairs.

38

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

IN THE OR

product focus

Surfacide Helios+ UV-C System Surfacide’s Helios+ UV-C System is one of only two devices authorized by the FDA as a Class II medical device for whole room microbial reduction. Helios+ delivers validated efficacy and regulatory assurance hospitals can trust. Its patented Power of Three design uses a trio of emitters to provide comprehensive, 360-degree disinfection – significantly reducing pathogens on surfaces and in the air in a single cycle. Engineered with workflow in mind, Helios+ features intuitive operation, real-time reporting and robust data capture to support compliance with The Joint Commission, DNV and CMS standards for environmental disinfection. Backed by a decade of clinical use and peer-reviewed evidence, Helios+ enhances existing cleaning protocols without delaying room turnover, helping infection prevention and EVS teams achieve safer, more efficient environments of care. From ORs and patient rooms to specialty spaces, Helios+ empowers hospitals to standardize disinfection with confidence – supported by FDA authorization, proven performance and measurable results.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

39

Reduce Contamination Risk and Improve Workflow in the OR.

When To Use Sterile-Z Double Setups

Clean Closures

High-Traffic Cases Examples of procedures

Request a

FREE SAMPLE Sterile-Z Back Table Cover

Unanticipated Disruptions

ARE YOU INSPECTION READY?

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

When it comes to your Joint Commission inspection, there’s no room for guesswork. You need absolute confidence that your facility is impeccably clean, compliant, and inspection ready.

Specialized Care for Every Critical Area

Surgical Suites

SPD

Endoscopy

Cath Labs

PreOp/PACU

Labor & Delivery

Don't leave your compliance to chance.

Let HudMed ensure your systems and facility standards meet the highest level of scrutiny.

Contact Us info@hudmedusa.com

For More Information www.hudmedusa.com

COVER STORY

THE ASC SURGE

BY DON SADLER

“Ambulatory surgery centers continue to play a vital role in expanding access to safe, high-quality surgical care.”

– Noel Adachi 42

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

COVER STORY

M

ore and more patients today are choosing ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) over traditional hospitals for their surgical procedures. ASC surgical volume is expected to increase by 21% over the next decade to reach 44 million procedures a year by 2034.

The migration of total joint procedures is one noteworthy trend in the ASC surge. According to the 11th Annual Report from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), released in November 2024, ASCs performed 62,110 total joint procedures in 2023, a 70% increase over the year before. More than half of joint replacements will be performed on an outpatient basis by 2026, the AAOS projects.

“This surge reflects the growing role of ASCs in delivering joint arthroplasty care across the U.S.,” says Jeanine Watson, MSN, RN, CNOR(E), CASC, senior manager, ASC Division of the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN.).

“The ASC setting is becoming the preferred site for orthopedic and joint replacement care, especially for lowerrisk patients,” says Raghu Reddy, MBA, BS, CMR, chief administrative officer of MiOrtho Surgery Center in Southfield, Michigan, and Ambulatory Surgery Center Association (ASCA) board member. “I believe this trend will likely accelerate as technologies and protocols continue to improve.”

A Safe and Efficient Alternative Why the surge in procedures performed at ASCs? In short, ASCs offer a safe, efficient and cost-effective alternative to inpatient hospital surgery for appropriate cases.

“ASCs offer high-quality care with excellent outcomes, lower costs for both patients and payers, more efficient scheduling, and an overall enhanced experience,” says Watson.

“Ambulatory surgery centers continue to play a vital role in expanding access to safe, high-quality surgical care,” says Noel Adachi, president and CEO of the WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). “Even as ASCs navigate rising costs, workforce shortages and evolving safety expectations, their commitment to excellence remains unwavering.”

“Patients are increasingly opting for ASCs due to their lower costs, reduced wait times and more personalized care environments,” says Reddy. “At the same time, payers are actively encouraging ASC utilization for healthier, lower-risk patient populations due to significant cost savings and efficiency gains. Together, these forces are driving sustained ASC growth and reshaping the surgical care delivery landscape.”

Jason Weshler, MSc., MBA, vice president, outpatient solutions with Siemens Healthineers North America, believes that rapid ASC growth is bringing opportunity while helping improve the overall patient experience.

“ASCs are by necessity are driving efficiencies,” says Weshler. “For example, ASC capacity is growing through the addition of operating rooms as opposed to new ASC facilities. We also continue to see clinicians designing new facilities to accommodate multiple specialties in the same operating rooms.”

ASC Challenges Whether through increased volume or the addition of new service lines, the ASC surge is presenting a number of challenges that impact every aspect of facilities.

Reddy calls the rapid growth of ASCs “a double-edged sword. While it’s exciting to see expansion, many centers might lack the necessary resources to scale effectively.

Once a facility is built based on a specific pro forma and reaches its capacity, it becomes constrained by those original limitations.”

Watson says that introducing new procedures often requires substantial investments in capital equipment, specialty supplies, surgical instruments and patient positioning devices. “These additions can strain existing storage capacity and require thoughtful planning to avoid space constraints.”

Jamie L. Ridout, RN, MSN, MBA, NEA-

BC, CNOR, CASC agrees.

“One challenge for ASCs is being able to afford and secure high-dollar capital such as robots for total joint procedures,” she says. “Patients have choices in where they elect to go for their surgery. For ASCs to thrive in competitive markets, they must offer the same or better technology than their competition.”

Weshler says he is seeing strong interest among ASCs in adding new service lines like cardiology. “But these come with added complexity, such as specialized equipment, state-level regulatory hurdles and evolving reimbursement dynamics.

The move toward site-neutral payments, coupled with insurance variability and advances in technology, will continue to challenge ASC scalability.”

Staffing Stress Staffing remains one of the biggest challenges ASCs face in the midst of the surge.

“ASCs often find themselves competing with large hospital systems that can offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits packages,” says Watson. “Due to typically lower profit margins, ASCs may not be able to match these financial incentives.”

Weshler says that staffing is especially challenging for new ASCs that are still ramping up volume and not yet operating at full capacity.

“ASCs are increasingly seeking staff from other specialties, such as radiologic technologists, to support more complex procedures,” he says.

In addition, some ASCs are stressing advantages such as more consistent schedules and better work-life balance.

“These can be a strong draw for many clinicians and nurses,” says Weshler.

According to Reddy, the ASC industry has lost a significant portion of its experienced workforce to retirement and career changes.

“Recruiting skilled personnel has become increasingly difficult and retaining them is even more challenging amid wage competition driven by ongoing staff shortages and inflation,” he says.

Watson recommends that ASCs focus Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

43

COVER STORY

on the advantages they can offer staff in comparison to hospitals.

“These include offering more favorable schedules – such as no weekend, holiday or on-call shifts – along with a more predictable and efficient work environment,” she says.

Higher Costs Pose Long-Term Risks Higher costs are another challenge faced

by ASCs. “Rising costs and shrinking reimbursements are shaking the ASC industry and the issue remains largely unaddressed, posing significant long-term risks,” says Reddy.

“Cost pressures continue to rise for ASCs at every stage of the operation,” says Weshler. “From the initial facility design and construction, where materials and labor costs have surged, to technology integration and day-to-day operations, expenses are increasing across the board.”

To manage cost pressures, Weshler says that many ASC leaders are becoming more selective and strategic about technology investments. “In some cases, this means choosing equipment configurations or consumables that are scaled appropriately for the ASC environment rather than mirroring hospital-level technologies.

We’re also seeing a stronger emphasis on collaboration and shared services to help control costs.”

Anesthesia costs are a particular concern for ASCs. “Many ASC leaders report that anesthesia groups are now requiring minimum case volumes and if those thresholds aren’t met, the ASC must cover the financial shortfall,” says Watson. “And temporary anesthesia providers are costly and increasingly difficult to secure.”

44

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

To address anesthesia cost challenges, some ASCs are revisiting the use of nurseadministered moderate sedation for select procedures.

“While this approach can help mitigate anesthesia shortages, it introduces new requirements,” says Watson. “Two nurses must be present per procedure and specialized training and certification are necessary to ensure safety and compliance.”

“Declining anesthesia reimbursements have placed substantial financial pressure on ASCs, often requiring facilities to provide subsidies just to maintain anesthesia coverage,” says Reddy. “Although several anesthesia models have evolved in response, the underlying burden persists unless reimbursement challenges are addressed through legislative actions.”

Ridout agrees: “While there may be creative strategies to support our anesthesia partners, I believe the solution runs much deeper and involves more intensive efforts to lobby for public policy addressing fair and equitable reimbursement structures and conversion factors for anesthesia coverage.”

Medicare Payment Rates Perhaps the biggest financial challenges faced by ASCs today are cost pressures related to Medicare payment rates, especially through the ASC Quality Reporting (ASCQR) Program.

“To receive the full annual payment update, ASCs must submit quality data for standardized measures,” explains Watson. “Failure to meet these reporting requirements can result in a twopercentage point reduction in the annual payment update.”

However, accessing the Centers for

Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reporting platform is complex and timeconsuming, Watson says. “This can delay or complicate timely data submission.”

To avoid penalties, Watson encourages ASC leaders to stay informed about reporting deadlines and requirements, ensure proper staff training and establish internal processes that support accurate and timely data collection.

“Proactive planning and oversight are key to maintaining reimbursement levels and supporting financial sustainability,” she says.

“CMS payment updates continue to lag behind inflation and fail to keep pace with rising wages, anesthesia staffing costs and the increasing prices of supplies and equipment,” says Reddy. “Anesthesia reimbursement remains at historically low levels, which creates significant challenges for centers serving a large Medicare population.

“While many ASCs are attempting to reduce expenses, there’s only so much cost-cutting that can be done without compromising quality of care,” Reddy adds.

Ridout says that industry organizations are fighting for parity in reimbursements for procedures that can be appropriately and safely performed in an ambulatory surgery center. “ASCs can assist in this by continually demonstrating a lower cost of care with the same or better-quality outcomes for patients. Continually making the argument that patients ultimately pay less when receiving their care in an ASC should be an attractive factor for payors.”

Prioritizing Safety & High-Quality Care ASCs have long prioritized patient and staff safety by consistently delivering highWWW.ORTODAY.COM

COVER STORY quality care in a controlled and secure environment. “Traditionally, these safety efforts focused on preventing infections, minimizing complications and ensuring readiness for clinical emergencies,” says Watson. “In recent years, safety protocols have evolved to address broader concerns, including facility and environmental security.”

Accreditation bodies now require ASCs to implement policies addressing workplace violence and provide staff training on this issue. “Many centers have also begun conducting active shooter drills and enhancing physical security measures to ensure preparedness for a wider range of potential threats,” says Watson.

According to Reddy, ASCs have consistently demonstrated a strong record of safety.

“The data continues to support this,” he says. “Numerous studies and patient surveys demonstrate that ASCs provide safe and effective care, beginning with stringent patient selection criteria to ensure each case is appropriate for the ambulatory surgery setting.”

AAAHC maintains a dedicated safety category within its accreditation standards that outlines clear expectations designed to prevent injury and illness and minimize risks to patients, staff and visitors. “These standards emphasize the importance of a proactive safety culture that identifies, assesses and mitigates risk before harm occurs,” says Adachi.

An effective safety program includes comprehensive risk assessment processes; mechanisms for reporting and managing hazards, near misses and other safety concerns; and oversight by the governing body. “Incorporating preventive measures and ongoing evaluation helps organizations prioritize high-risk areas and sustain safe, reliable care environments,” says Adachi.

“AAAHC continuously strengthens its standards by engaging a wide range of stakeholders across the health care community,” Adachi adds. “Our standards remain peer-reviewed, evidence-based and reflective of evolving best practices across diverse ambulatory specialties and settings.”

AAAHC offers a wide range of tools and solutions designed to help ASCs address challenges and “maintain continuous survey readiness throughout the 1,095-day accreditation cycle,” says Adachi. These include: 1095 Engage resources: This suite of readiness tools within the Help Curtain of the 1095 Engage platform includes the Self-Assessment Tool, which enables organizations to evaluate their performance against current AAAHC Standards.

Achieving Accreditation program: This interactive, immersive event helps organizations prepare for their onsite survey and deepen understanding of AAAHC Standards through peer discussion and faculty-led sessions.

1095 Learn eLearning modules: AAAHC’s on-demand learning portal offers a comprehensive curriculum that guides organizations through every step of the 1095 Strong journey to support continuous quality improvement and readiness.

The AAAHC Institute for Quality Improvement (IQI): In addition to the Quality Roadmap, IQI provides practical toolkits and data-driven insights addressing common survey findings, standards interpretation and quality improvement best practices.

IQI Benchmarking Studies: These studies enable organizations to measure and compare performance across peers, meet AAAHC benchmarking requirements and drive targeted, evidencebased improvements.

“Together, these resources reinforce AAAHC’s commitment to supporting ambulatory organizations in achieving excellence in quality, safety and patient care,” says Adachi.

An Evolving Landscape Weshler believes that the ASC landscape will continue to evolve rapidly – and with this evolution comes more opportunity.

“Organizations that plan proactively, form strategic partnerships and design flexibility into their facilities will be best positioned to adapt and take advantage of new growth opportunities as they arise.”

More than half of all joint replacement surgeries will be performed on an outpatient basis by 2026, according to AAOS projections.

JASON WESHLER

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

JEANINE WATSON

NOEL ADACHI

RAGHU REDDY

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

45

Spotlight On: Joanne Oliver-Coleman, MBA-HM, BSN, RN, CNOR-E

By Don Sadler

T

here probably aren’t too many people who can look back on a career that spans more than 60 years. However, Joanne OliverColeman is one of them.

Joanne first became a registered nurse in 1962 after graduating from the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing. “There was a six-week tour through the operating room and that’s when I decided that perioperative nursing is what I really wanted to do,” she says.

Upon graduation from nursing school, Joanne moved to Houston to work for world-renowned cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Denton Cooley, who performed the first successful human heart transplant in the U.S. in 1968. She was appointed head OR nurse, cardiovascular service just three months after graduation.

“I learned so much as a young nurse working for Dr. Cooley,” she says.

After working with Dr. Cooley for four years, Joanne became the director of surgical services at Diagnostic Center Hospital in Houston, Texas, where she opened and managed the surgical services department. In this role, she developed all policies and procedures, created a new educational department for surgical

46

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

services and aided in the development of a new surgical suite.

In 1983, Joanne went to work for one of the first OR computer software companies where she was promoted all the way up to McKesson in Houston as a nurse consultant, sales executive and product consultant.

During this time, she helped develop the first

perioperative computerized nursing record. Then in 1999, she became an independent nurse consultant specializing in OR computer implementation and management before serving as the director of partner development for Validare Inc. In 2002, Joanne founded Healthcare Resources to provide independent perioperative consulting services. And in 2024 she completed

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

her MBA in healthcare management through Western Governors University.

The one constant in Joanne’s long and successful perioperative career has been her involvement in the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN), which she has been a part of for over 60 years. A mentor encouraged her to start attending AORN meetings early in her career and she has been an officer, chair or committee member every year since at the local, state and national levels.

Joanne has written dozens of articles for industry publications and delivered dozens of speeches and presentations on perioperative nursing. She wrote the first AORN administrative standards that evolved over the years to become part of the AORN recommended practices.

“There were no standards of care or protocols at the time – hospitals were all doing everything differently,” she says. “I thought we needed to shape that up so I became chair of the program committee.”

Throughout her career, Joanne has received numerous awards and recognitions. These include the AORN Greater Houston Perioperative Nurse of the Year, Texas Nurses Association Award for Nursing Excellence, AORN Greater Houston President’s Award, Texas Collaboration of periOperative Registered Nurses (TCORN) President’s Award, AORN Jerry G. Peers Distinguished Service Award, AORN Foundation Nurse Philanthropist Award and AORN State Council Leadership Award.

Mentoring new nurses has been one of Joanne’s great passions throughout her career. In recognition, she received the AORN Greater Houston Mentorship Award in 2017.

“I bet I’ve mentored a couple of thousand nurses throughout my career,” she says. “In fact, I just spent two hours on the phone last night with a young nurse who was facing challenges.”

One of the biggest challenges

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Joanne has faced throughout her career has been bullying in the OR. “It’s just not necessary,” she says.

“It’s not about what you can do to control or hurt others in the OR – it’s about how you can help them. When teaching other nurses, I start out with what they’re doing right and then try to help them in areas where they need to improve.”

Looking ahead, Joanne sees technology, including robotics and artificial intelligence, taking on an evergreater role in the OR. “The outpatient area is going to expand exponentially from where it is now,” she says. “We’re already doing some open-heart and vascular procedures outpatient, as well as total hips and total knees. This is all possible because of improved technology.”

Joanne believes that nurse staffing will remain a challenge for ORs. “Unfortunately, nursing students don’t get much exposure to the world of perioperative nursing and we’re short-staffed on faculty to train them,” she says. “Nursing students need to be more actively involved in the OR

instead of just sitting in a corner and watching. They need to be involved in the surgical timeout and maybe even passing instruments.”

After more than 60 years in perioperative nursing, Joanne isn’t slowing down anytime soon. She continues to consult, write, speak and mentor young nurses while remaining an active AORN participant.

“I’m 85 years old and I wouldn’t trade one single day of my perioperative nursing career,” she says. “I’m still doing what I love and still contributing and making a difference. Once you’re a nurse, you’re always a nurse.”

Joanne has been an avid golfer most of her life and worked for many years as a scorer at the Houston Open.

“I walked with the pros and kept their scores and then sat in the tent with them after the round to make sure our scores matched,” she says.

She has also competed in challenge square dancing.

“There are seven or eight levels of square dancing, all the way up to challenge,” she says. “I still love doing this.”

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

47

OUT OF THE OR health

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Offers New Hope for Veterans

By Family Features or generations, America’s

F veterans have borne not

only the visible scars of battle but also the hidden wounds of war. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, traumatic brain injury and anxiety have long haunted those who served, often with devastating effects on their quality of life and their families.

While traditional treatments have helped, many veterans continue to suffer in silence – left behind by a system struggling to meet their needs.

However, science is now reopening doors once closed, and therapies previously dismissed are being reconsidered with fresh eyes. Among them are psychedelic-assisted 48

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

treatments, which have revealed potential in clinical trials to address the most severe mental health conditions afflicting veterans.

The FDA’s Role The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only one psychedelic-based medication: a ketamine nasal spray to treat depression. However, other compounds are gaining the attention of researchers, clinicians and veterans alike. Psilocybin – the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms” – and a drug similar to LSD have both earned FDA “breakthrough therapy” status for their potential to ease depression and anxiety, sometimes after only a single dose.

In 2017, MDMA-assisted therapy was identified as a potential

breakthrough treatment option for PTSD; ultimately, the FDA declined to grant full approval. This setback underscored not a failure of science, but the complexity of studying powerful compounds under existing regulatory frameworks. For veterans, it was a disappointment, yet it also spotlighted the urgent need for continued research and funding.

Veterans and Research at the Forefront One compound has captured national attention: ibogaine, a psychedelic root traditionally used in ceremonies in central and west Africa. Early studies with specialoperations veterans have found improvements in PTSD, depression, anxiety and overall functioning – especially for those living with the WWW.ORTODAY.COM

effects of traumatic brain injury.

Recognizing this potential, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) is championing these new approaches.

At its 2025 National Convention, the organization hosted a groundbreaking psychedelics roundtable that brought together researchers, veterans, advocates and even a former NFL player to discuss the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies.

The century-old organization supports research into these treatments, pointing out that traditional therapies can fail for as many as 60% of those who try them.

It’s also advocating for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make psychedelic treatments available once they receive FDA approval.

“We are experiencing a watershed moment in medical research as psychedelic-assisted therapies have revealed true potential in clinical trials to treat severe mental health conditions,” said Barry Jesinoski, DAV’s National Adjutant. “This glimmer offers veterans contending with not only PTSD but depression, traumatic brain

injury, anxiety and more hope in a world where the status quo is failing them.”

OUT OF THE OR

health

A New Mission The promising results of these treatments spurred some states to commit funding toward research into psychedelic therapies or conduct legislative hearings to explore their role in advancing this science. The VA is now conducting studies on MDMA and psilocybin.

While more research is needed to fully understand their risks, benefits and best applications, for DAV, psychedelic medication represents both hope and responsibility. By advocating for rigorous research and ensuring veterans’ perspectives are central to the conversation, the organization is working to accelerate progress while safeguarding integrity.

Whether through psilocybin, MDMA, ibogaine or future discoveries, the mission is clear: fund the research, pursue the science and ensure America’s veterans are given every chance to heal.

Learn more at dav.org.

TRAIN ANYWHERE SUCCEED EVERYWHERE Virtual Medical Laser Safety Officer Course

2026 DATES: JANUARY 24-25 APRIL 18-19 JULY 18-19 NOVEMBER 7-8

REGISTER TODAY

MEDICALLASERSAFETY.COM WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

49

OUT OF THE OR fitness

3 Movements That Boost Balance & Coordination

By Miguel J. Ortiz ne very important thing I

O learned when going through

rehab and physical therapy is that after strengthening and lengthening, I had to coordinate my movement with the rest of my body. It was a building process that I was not expecting to be difficult, but it absolutely required a lot of focus. It taught me a great deal about movement.

When it comes to exercise, it’s great to look good. However, to move well and feel good while doing it is just as important. We need to maintain our normal exercise routine while also doing exercises that will improve our general movement patterns. The following three total body exercises will challenge your flexibility. They will also improve your core balance, coordination and strength.

The first movement is the gorilla squat (youtu.be/oNxM7zC-iPI). This exercise challenges hamstring, shoulder, hip and lower back flexibility. You want to start the exercise as low as possible.

In this case, putting your fingers under your toes. If needed, try grabbing from a higher position (knees) and then work your way down. Try to bend your knees while driving wide and keeping your arms straight. If possible, maintain a neutral spine on bottom and top. This exercise can easily be used as part of a warm-up routine or slowed down 50

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

for a yoga pose. It can also be used at the end of a workout to crush your hamstrings. Either way, be sure to add this movement to your routine. Do three rounds of 10 reps.

The second movement challenges core strength and balance. It is the single leg touchdown to balance with a curl and press (youtu.be/JCZW2GuXuTA).

While balancing on one foot, hover the other in the air, perform a single leg squat while reaching your right hand to balance your left foot. If you cannot reach your foot, start at highest position and work your way down. After coming upright, perform a high knee with a curl followed by a shoulder press. This movement has many fundamental patterns that will help develop general athleticism. It’s a great warm up before going into a strength phase of training.

It is also helpful for improving core strength and joint stability. Do three rounds of 6-8 reps a side. Be sure you can control the weight through every phase of motion.

Lastly, we have a great total body movement that can be done with just body weight or be turned into a solid total body strength exercise. It is a kettlebell goblet hinge to squat (youtu. be/yBaTZNMZc-Q). If done with body weight before starting to exercise place your hands behind your head to focus on scapula retraction and spinal alignment. When done with a kettlebell,

this exercise challenges core and leg strength as well as hip, knee and ankle mobility. The strength development throughout the legs and core can be helpful as a body weight movement to warm up before leg day. It may also be used as a great strength exercise built into a leg or exercise routine. Either way, it’s a great total body movement to keep in your program.

Have fun with these movements and continue to stay active.

- Miguel J. Ortiz is a personal trainer in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a member of the National Personal Trainer Institute and a Certified Nutritional Consultant with more than a decade of professional experience. He can be found on Instagram at @ migueljortiz.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

New Levels of Perioperative Safety Innovative Solutions that Improve Outcomes for OR Staff and Patients

Effortless, Lift-free Patient Transfer

• The Pink Pad Air-Assist: the only air-assisted solution with a proven Trendelenburg positioning material that maintains contact with patients as well as OR table surfaces •An evidence-based best practice for reducing postoperative erythema, and the risk of nerve damage in steep Trendelenburg • The safest, most effective solution for preventing patient sliding in steep Trendelenburg; even for heavy, high-BMI patients

Watch the Air-Assist in use

Reduce Muscle Fatigue

Scan for a free sample

• Increase safety and comfort for hospital staff • Available in a multitude of sizes and configurations • “Prolonged standing during surgical procedures poses a high risk of causing musculo skeletal disorders, including back, leg, and foot pain, which can be chronic or acute in nature.”

— AORN Journal

www.xodusmedical.com

OUT OF THE OR nutrition

5 Health Benefits of Whole Milk for Kids

By Family Features the outdated nutrition F orget advice that told parents to

skip whole milk. A growing body of research is turning that idea on its head, making it time to rethink what “healthy” means for growing kids.

For decades, families have been told low-fat milk is the best choice once children turn 2. However, those recommendations were largely based on data from adults, not children.

Today’s evidence paints a different picture – one where whole milk supports kids’ growth, development and long-term health.

“Parents are often surprised to learn whole milk isn’t just safe – it’s beneficial,” said Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, nutrition consultant and spokesperson for Dairy Farmers of America. “When we look at the latest research, whole milk provides the high-quality protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients kids need during 52

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

key stages of development – without increasing risk for obesity or heart disease.”

With 13 essential nutrients and vitamins – including calcium, vitamin D and protein – real dairy milk is a simple, nutrient-dense staple.

Here are five research-backed reasons to feel confident about choosing whole milk.

• Whole milk is not associated with higher obesity rates. Multiple largescale studies from “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,” the “International Journal of Obesity” and “Preventive Medicine Reports” show children who drink whole milk have lower or similar body fat levels compared to those drinking reduced-fat milk.

• Whole milk does not increase risk of heart disease. According to “Advances in Nutrition,” whole milk does not increase cardiometabolic risk in kids; in fact, it’s associated with better vitamin

D levels with no adverse effects on cholesterol or glucose.

• It’s nutrient-dense and supports optimal growth. All types of milk, including whole, provide essential nutrients like calcium, protein and vitamins A and D – all critical for bone development and healthy growth in children, per “Nutrition Research Reviews.”

• Kids like the taste – and that matters. Children often prefer the taste of whole milk over low-fat versions, according to the “Journal of Dairy Science,” which can lead to more consistent consumption.

Adults may benefit, too. Among adults, full-fat dairy is associated with greater satiety, improved blood sugar regulation and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, according to a study published in “Nutrition & Metabolism,” helping reframe full-fat dairy as part of a balanced diet.

Learn more at DFAMilk.com.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

OUT OF THE OR EQ Factor

Hidden Cost of Poor Management

By Daniel Bobinski, Th.D. following observation has T he been mentioned in

workplaces for a long time: People don't quit jobs, they quit bosses.

That begs the question, “What specific management shortcomings drive talented employees out the door?”

In early 2020, Business.com examined the primary reasons employees seek new opportunities. Their findings exposed a troubling reality about management, and studies done just this past year revealed similar results.

The top three reasons people leave a company are: 1. A toxic work environment/culture 2. Poor leadership/management 3. Lack of a career path/no career development Other reasons people leave are: • Bosses who lack empathy • Feeling disengaged from their work • Feeling undervalued by leadership • Feeling underutilized despite their capabilities • Experiencing excessive stress or workload • Burning out from sustained pressure • Operating without trust or autonomy A lack of adequate compensation is rarely stated as a reason people leave.

The above list should catch every manager's attention. Notice that toxic work environments and lack of empathy are commonly cited reasons.

Looking over the list, I surmise that “lack of empathy” serves as the fulcrum for nearly every other factor on the list.

When managers lack empathy, they 54

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

become blind to their team members' experiences. They miss signs that someone feels disengaged, undervalued or underutilized. They fail to recognize when stress levels have become unsustainable or when burnout is approaching. They remain oblivious to how company culture affects morale and trust.

The solution isn't complicated, although implementing it requires a commitment. When people study emotional intelligence, empathy is a key component. Think about it. When managers can perceive and assess their own emotions, desires and tendencies as well as those of others, they gain a substantially increased connection with their employees. Armed with that information, managers can make decisions that lead to the best outcomes for everyone involved. People remain engaged. They feel useful. They feel valued.

Yet a paradox exists. Those with the highest need for EQ often have the greatest resistance to learning it. Too many managers dismiss emotional intelligence because it contains the word "emotional" and assume it's touchy-feely nonsense.

The evidence says otherwise. In the early 1990s, researchers studied 200 companies worldwide, seeking to identify what separated average performers from top performers. In managerial positions and technical roles, they found that two-thirds of the difference was emotional intelligence.

For top performers at leadership and professional levels, the role of

emotional intelligence was even more pronounced. Four-fifths of the performance gap between average and exceptional leaders was directly related to EQ capabilities.

Consider what this means. Managers with solid self-awareness who could also understand people displayed better relationship management skills.

Despite common misconceptions, none of that is mysterious or fluffy.

Emotional intelligence is not only practical, it directly impacts both employee retention and organizational performance.

Bottom line, the question isn't whether emotional intelligence matters in management. Research settled that question decades ago. The question is whether managers will invest the effort to develop it, or whether they'll keep losing good people who simply got tired of being mismanaged.

Daniel Bobinski, is the author of the best-selling book “Creating Passion-Driven Teams” and the owner of Workplace Excellence. Also a certified behavioral analyst, Daniel consults and conducts training on workplace effectiveness and leadership development. He can be reached at danielbobinski@protonmail.com or eqfactor.net.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

ADVANTAGE SUPPORT SERVICES, INC.

YOUR O.R. RUNS ON PRECISION. YOUR SUPPORT TEAM SHOULD TOO. OR and SPD Leadership You Can Count On O.R. & SPD Staffing That Shows Up Ready Quality, Compliance, & Workflow Optimization Reliable Support for Peak Performance

Proven Case Studies

STAFFING

QUALITY

SUPPORT

Bring in expert O.R. and SPD teams, credentialed, prepared, and ready to work.

Streamline your workflow with assessments & quality improvements.

From long-term stability to rapid coverage, build teams that deliver lasting results.

AdvantageSupportServices.com

The double gloving solution in your hands Biogel® PI Micro Indicator® System offers safety, comfort,1 efficiency and sustainability – all in one convenient package. It is a smart solution for hands that need to perform at their best.

Find out more at www.molnlycke.us/biogel or scan the QR code.

50

%

LESS PLASTIC PACKAGING*

The Biogel® PI Micro Indicator® System includes a blue synthetic polyisoprene Indicator® underglove half a size larger than the natural color polyisoprene overglove. This unique combination is shown to provide added safety and comfort.2 By using a single pack containing two gloves, your plastic glove packaging is reduced by 50% compared to using two separately packed gloves which can encourage double-gloving compliance while supporting your sustainability O.R. waste reduction goals. *Compared to two sterile single glove packs.

References 1. Collins J. A Clinical Investigation to Evaluate the Biogel PI Micro Surgical Glove. Mölnlycke Health Care, 2014. Data on file. 2. Laine, T., Aarnio, P., Glove perforation in orthopaedic and trauma surgery – a comparison between single, double indicator gloving and double gloving with two regular gloves.

J Bone Joint Surg Br, 2004, 86(6):898–900.

The Mölnlycke, Biogel, and Indicator trademarks, names and logo types are registered globally to one or more of the Mölnlycke® Health Care Group of Companies.

Distributed by Mölnlycke® Health Care US, Peachtree Corners, Georgia 30092. © 2025 Mölnlycke® Health Care AB. All rights reserved. MHC-2024-430762

2026

SAVE THE DATE HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC N O V E MB E R 14-15, 2 02 6

S O U T H E A S T P E R I O P. C O M

New Orleans, LA • April 11-14, 2026

FOR THE PATIENTS YOU CARE ABOUT FOR THE TEAM YOU LEAD

At the AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo 2026, you’ll find the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to make every moment in the OR count—for your patients, your colleagues, and yourself.

With more than 80 education sessions, clinical skills studios, ASC and educator tracks plus the Leadership Summit, there’s something for everyone. Learn the latest evidence-based practices, explore breakthrough technologies, and gain strategies to elevate your team and your career.

JOIN THOUSANDS OF

PERIOPERATIVE PROFESSIONALS IN NEW ORLEANS, APRIL 11–14, 2026.

REGISTER TODAY

to secure your space and early bird pricing.

Leadership Summit has sold out 4 years in a row!

we’re on instagram!

F O L LOW U S

@OR_TODAY

ortoday.com

TAKE GOOD CARE: NURSES • SURGICAL TECHS • NURSE MANAGERS

and get a first look at: MAGAZINES • SPECIAL OFFERS WEBINARS • CONFERENCE UPDATES

www.ORToday.com

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

59

OUT OF THE OR

Warm Up with a Comforting Casserole

Recipe

recipe

the

By Culinary.net

60

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

OUT OF THE OR recipe

colder temperatures roll in, there are few things W hen like a hearty meal shared with loved ones to help

warm you up from the inside out.

Made using ingredients you may already have on hand, this Tuna Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food featuring canned tuna, noodles, cheese, veggies and a creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs. Filling, affordable and easy to prepare, this heartwarming dish is perfect for busy weeknights and may even find its way into your family’s comfort food rotation alongside dishes like chicken and dumplings, chili, meatloaf and chicken pot pie.

Visit Culinary.net to find more easy family meal ideas.

Tuna Noodle Casserole INGREDIENTS: 6 1 2 1 1/2 1 1/2 1/2 1/4 2 1/4 2

ounces egg noodles cup peas (canned or frozen) cans (5 ounces each) light chunk tuna in water, drained can (10 1/2 ounces) cream of celery soup cup milk cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided teaspoon celery salt teaspoon black pepper tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus additional for garnish (optional) nonstick cooking spray cup dry breadcrumbs tablespoons butter, melted Parmesan cheese

• Preheat oven to 350 F. • Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.

• In large bowl, mix egg noodles, peas, tuna, soup, milk, 1 1/4 cups cheddar cheese, celery salt, pepper and 2 tablespoons parsley.

• Spray 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and add tuna mixture. Cover with aluminum foil and bake 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

• While casserole is baking, mix breadcrumbs and melted butter. Remove casserole from oven and top with breadcrumb mixture and remaining cheddar cheese.

• Bake, uncovered, 5-10 minutes, until breadcrumbs are golden brown and cheese on top is melted. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and additional parsley, if desired, before serving.

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

61

OUT OF THE OR scrapbook

The 2025 Southeast Councils of PeriOperative Nurses delivered outstanding educational programming, signature social gatherings and elite networking events designed to foster community among attendees.

62

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

WEBINAR SERIES

WATC H

CLICK

EARN

ONE CLICK.

EARN CEs. When you join us for a FREE webinar.

FREE WEBINAR

ON DEMAND & LIVE WEBINARS

O R TO DAYW E B I N A R S . L I V E OR Today has been approved and is licensed to be a Continuing Education Provider with the California Board of Registered Nurses, License #16623. CBSPD CE credits when applicable.

OUT OF THE OR scrapbook

Periop

powered by

CONNECT The 2025 Periop ConneCT delivered an outstanding experience designed to foster community among attendees. Hosted by OR Today in partnership with AORN Connecticut Chapter 0701, the conference offered CE-accredited sessions led by industry experts, an exhibit hall featuring top surgical vendors and opportunities to connect with colleagues and thought leaders in the field.

64

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

OUT OF THE OR

pinboard

W E N

CONTEST Win a $25 Gift Card!

LOVE READING OR TODAY ? Gift Card TELL US WHY!

$25

TWE NT DOL Y-FIVE LARS

SCAN ME TO

ENTER

Everyone likes FREE stuff and we want to hear from our readers! It is a win-win! Please take a moment to tell us what you like about OR Today magazine.

You could win a $25 gift card!

Simply go to ORToday.com/Contest and fill out the short form for your chance to win!

THIS M

ONTH

Pam G 'S WINNER laset UPM C

“OR Today magazine is so informative and keeps me updated on new procedures for patient care and valuable information on earning continuing education credits. The recipes included are certainly a plus.”

– Pam Glaset

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Discover exclusive behind-the-scenes content, expert interviews, and surgical insights tailored for operating room professionals. Subscribe to stay informed, inspired, and connected with the latest in perioperative care from OR Today!

@ortodaymagazine or scan the QR code

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Winter 2026 | OR TODAY

65

INDEX

advertisers

ALPHABETICAL Advantage Support Services, Inc………………… 55

HudMed…………………………………………………………………41

OR Today Webinar Series……………………………… 63

AIV Inc.…………………………………………………………………13

Innovative Medical Products…………………………… 4

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

AORN………………………………………………………………… 58

Interlight…………………………………………………………… 29

Skytron…………………………………………………………………31

ASCA……………………………………………………………………15

International X-Ray Brokers………………………………17

Solventum…………………………………………………………… 6

CEGA Innovations, Inc.……………………………………… 5

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

TIDI Products, LLC…………………………………………… 40

CONMED Corporation……………………………………… 9

Molnlycke Health Care…………………………………… 56

USOC Medical…………………………………………………… 68

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

Opmed.ai…………………………………………………………… 53

Xodus Medical, Inc.……………………………………………51

ASSOCIATION

INSTRUMENT STORAGE/TRANSPORT

REPROCESSING STATIONS

AORN………………………………………………………………… 58

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

ASCA……………………………………………………………………15

TIDI Products, LLC…………………………………………… 40

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

BATTERIES

MAMMOGRAPHY

SAFETY

Interlight…………………………………………………………… 29

International X-Ray Brokers………………………………17

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

BIOMEDICAL

MEDICAL IMAGING TABLES

TIDI Products, LLC…………………………………………… 40

Interlight…………………………………………………………… 29

International X-Ray Brokers………………………………17

SINKS

CARTS/CABINETS

MONITORS

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

USOC Medical…………………………………………………… 68

STERILIZATION

CS/SPD

ONLINE RESOURCE

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

OR Today Webinar Series……………………………… 63

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

OR TABLES

DISINFECTION

International X-Ray Brokers………………………………17

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

OR TABLES/BOOMS/ACCESSORIES

ENDOSCOPY

Innovative Medical Products…………………………… 4

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

OTHER

CATEGORICAL

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33 Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24

FLUID MANAGEMENT MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

GENERAL AIV Inc.…………………………………………………………………13

AIV Inc.…………………………………………………………………13

PATIENT MONITORING AIV Inc.…………………………………………………………………13 USOC Medical…………………………………………………… 68

POSITIONING PRODUCTS Innovative Medical Products…………………………… 4

INFECTION CONTROL

Molnlycke Health Care…………………………………… 56

Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

PRESSURE ULCER MANAGEMENT

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

Molnlycke Health Care…………………………………… 56

MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

SURGICAL MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33 TIDI Products, LLC…………………………………………… 40

SURGICAL INSTRUMENT/ACCESSORIES Healthmark Industries Company, Inc.………… 67

TELEMETRY AIV Inc.…………………………………………………………………13 USOC Medical…………………………………………………… 68

TUBES Interlight…………………………………………………………… 29

WASTE MANAGEMENT MD Technologies Inc.……………………………………… 33

X-RAY International X-Ray Brokers………………………………17

Ruhof Corporation…………………………………………2, 24 TIDI Products, LLC…………………………………………… 40

66

OR TODAY | Winter 2026

WWW.ORTODAY.COM

Protect Staff & Patients. Pinpoint Insulation Flaws.

The McGan Insulation Tester helps you ensure safety, maintain compliance, and prevent costly failures — with accuracy you can trust.

hmark.com 800.521.6224

Identify hidden damage Detect cracks, pinholes, and insulation defects before they reach the OR.

Work with ease Lightweight, handheld design makes testing quick and simple anywhere.

Stay ahead of compliance Helps meet recommended standards for inspection and patient safety.

Scan to explore features and request a demo.

TIMES CHANGE quality doesn’t Excellence You Can Always Trust