AORN Introduces New Award Program to Enhance Surgical Safety and Recovery

AORN Launches the Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety Award Program

In a significant development for the healthcare community, the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) has announced the establishment of the AORN Center of Excellence in Surgical Safety, which includes an innovative award program focused on Enhancing Recovery After Surgery (ERAS). This initiative, launched on October 8, 2025, aims to provide hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers with a structured pathway to enrich evidence-based practices, augment patient recovery processes, and foster collaboration within surgical teams while attaining national recognition for surgical safety.

Understanding the ERAS Approach

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) represents a modern, patient-centered methodology designed to improve surgical outcomes by minimizing both physiological and psychological stress associated with surgery. Originally conceived for colorectal surgeries, ERAS protocols have expanded across various medical specialties, promising enhanced recovery for a broad range of patients undergoing surgical procedures.

Hannah Campbell, the Program Manager at AORN, emphasized the increasing interest in ERAS guidelines among their members and attendees at various events. “The research demonstrates that ERAS significantly improves outcomes; however, it remains underutilized. Our members have consistently expressed the need for knowledge on how to implement ERAS interventions throughout all stages of care,” she noted, highlighting the importance of incorporating ERAS into clinical practice.

The AORN Center of Excellence Framework

The AORN Center of Excellence in ERAS provides a comprehensive framework that includes role-specific education, practical toolkits, benchmarking resources, and expert guidance from AORN professionals. By implementing these resources, surgical facilities can adopt a structured approach to enhance their recovery protocols effectively and safely. This initiative has been made possible through the generous support of sponsors including CONMED, Pacira, and Solventum, facilitated by the AORN Foundation.

The Role of Perioperative Nurses

Central to the success of the ERAS protocols is the active involvement of perioperative nurses. As noted by Lisa Spruce, the Director of Evidence-Based Perioperative Practice at AORN, nurses play a critical role throughout the entire ERAS trajectory—from preparing patients for surgery to ensuring their comfort and safety during the procedure and facilitating their recovery thereafter. This involves maintaining proper body temperature, fluid balance, and encouraging early mobilization and effective pain management post-surgery.

By emphasizing the pivotal role within the surgical continuum, this initiative not only highlights the contributions of nurses but also advocates for enhanced teamwork and a collaborative approach to patient care.

Promoting Surgical Safety

AORN's CEO, David Wyatt, reiterated the value of interdisciplinarity, emphasizing that the ERAS approach is a prime example of how coordinated efforts from diverse team members can lead to remarkable improvements in patient outcomes. “Very few priorities in perioperative practice illustrate as effectively as ERAS the profound impact that joint interventions can have on achieving targeted health results,” he stated.

This commitment to promoting surgical safety and recovery excellence through the new award program illustrates the association's proactive approach to nursing practice and patient care quality.

Conclusion

As AORN continues to champion excellence in Surgical Safety through the implementation of the ERAS program, the landscape of perioperative care is set to transform. This initiative not only empowers healthcare teams by providing essential resources but also emphasizes the essential role of nursing in maximizing patient outcomes. The AORN Center of Excellence is poised to redefine best practices in surgical care, thereby ensuring safe surgical experiences for patients nationwide. For additional information and to learn more about this transformative initiative, visit www.aorn.org.