Let me tell you about the incredible journey with the Operating Room (OR) and Recovery Room (RR) units. Picture this: a bustling hub of activity where highly skilled staff come together like a well-oiled machine to orchestrate surgical care for a diverse array of patients.

In this unit, every member plays a vital role in guiding patients through the intricate phases of surgery, from pre-operative preparations to post-operative recovery. Their goal is to restore patients to wellness, performing the right surgeries on the right individuals while adhering to stringent safety protocols outlined in our policies and AORN guidelines.

Now, let me introduce you to the remarkable team. Among them there are diploma holders, BSN holders, and two master's degree holders, all united by a shared passion for excellence in patient care. But their journey doesn't end there. They are firm believers in the power of continuous learning and growth, with several members of the team currently enrolled in BSN programs to further their education and advance their careers.

Their path has not been without challenges. They've faced shortages in supplies, limited workspace, staffing constraints, and long patient waiting lists. However despite these hurdles, the team has achieved remarkable outcomes. They've achieved a 50% reduction in surgical site infections and minimized Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries (HAPI), thanks to the team for the unwavering commitment to patient safety and our collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.

But the real magic lies in their groundbreaking achievements such as the first-ever robotic Stereo Electroencephalography (SEEG) insertion for epilepsy patients, and robotic Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's patients was done in 2023. The nurses didn't just learn these procedures—they mastered them, showcasing their dedication and expertise.

And their success doesn't stop there. They’ve seen increases in OR utilization rates, case volumes, and successful kidney transplant procedures. The staff even worked extra shifts to support Saturday’s elective cases which help achieving the organizational goal and reduce waiting lists, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to patient care.

But perhaps what sets them apart is the spirit of collaboration and compassion. The RR nurses opened their doors to ICU patients when there was no space available, accommodating them in the Recovery Room. The nurses have risen to the challenge, increasing ICU admissions by 61% in 2023 while delivering top-notch care and support.

And when faced with adversity, like a recent fire incident, the team showed incredible resilience and resolve. They sprang into action, working closely with safety and Clinical Engineering teams to enhance their safety protocols and ensure the well-being of patients and staff.

The OR/RR journey is filled with milestones, all of which speak volumes about the dedication, collaboration, and unwavering commitment of OR and RR nurses to provide exceptional patient care and uphold the highest standards of excellence in healthcare.