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AORN Journal· 2026Q2

Why the Title “Perioperative Nurse” Matters

Lindsay Fischer

Short summary

The title "perioperative nurse" was adopted by AORN in 1999 to reflect that nursing care extends beyond the operating room, encompassing the entire surgical journey from planning to recovery.

AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.

Key points

  • AORN changed its name to the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses in 1999.
  • The term "perioperative" reflects nursing care extending beyond the OR to the entire surgical journey.
  • This title shift emphasizes patient advocacy and holistic, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
  • The profession proudly represents over 539,000 perioperative nurses globally.

AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.

Abstract

In 1999, AORN voted to change their name to the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses. This name was chosen to reflect the fact that nurses’ knowledge and delivery of care extends beyond the OR.1 Perioperative nurses advocate for patients throughout the surgical journey, from planning through recovery.1 Therefore, a title that contains the word “perioperative” helps to shift the focus toward the patient, reflecting the true focus of perioperative nursing: providing holistic, evidence-based, and patient-centered care.2 Today, AORN proudly represents the interests of more than 539 000 perioperative nurses around the world.2 Perioperative Nurses Week, which is celebrated the second week of November, is a time to recognize and celebrate all those who contribute to the profession.2 Figure 1. Three tips to boost perioperative nursing recognition. None reported.

The authors' abstract, as published at the source. AORN Journal, 2026 · DOI ↗

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Issues, ethics and legal aspectsNursing