#United States #Denver #AORN #David Wyatt #nursing leadership

David Wyatt Named New CEO of AORN

On December 20, 2024, the Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) unveiled the appointment of Dr. David Wyatt as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Executive Director, effective February 10. He succeeds Linda Groah, who is retiring and will assist in the transition. This leadership change marks a significant step for AORN as it aims to enhance its mission of advancing surgical patient care through innovative nursing practices.

Wyatt's Extensive Background in Perioperative Care

David Wyatt’s appointment comes with an impressive background of over 20 years in surgical services and healthcare management. His dedication to improving patient care and fostering professional development among nurses positions him well to lead AORN into the future. Nakeisha Tolliver, AORN's 2024 President, expressed excitement about Wyatt’s vision for the organization, noting that his leadership style and experience in perioperative care make him an ideal fit to guide AORN.

Before his new role, Wyatt served as the Chief Nursing Officer at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. He was entrusted with operational and clinical leadership across various departments, demonstrating his capability to lead large teams and handle complex healthcare environments. His previous experience included the role of Vice President of Perioperative Enterprise at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he effectively managed multiple locations and a wide range of surgical settings.

Commitment to Perioperative Nursing

Wyatt's longstanding relationship with AORN is noteworthy; he has been a member for over 25 years and has contributed to various task forces addressing critical national nursing issues. Guided by his extensive experience, he aims to advocate for perioperative nurses and promote evidence-based practices in surgical environments.

His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as the AORN President highlighted his commitment to enhancing nursing practices in times of crisis. His recognition as a Fellow of both the American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) and AORN (FAORN) solidifies his reputation as a leader in the nursing profession, emphasizing his dedication to bridging gaps within healthcare leadership.

Key Priorities for the Future

In his future role at AORN, Wyatt is set to tackle several key priorities that will influence the direction of the organization. These include:

• - Workforce Development: Focusing on recruiting and retaining nursing professionals to address staffing challenges.
• - Advancing Evidence-based Practices: Encouraging the adoption of standards that ensure patient safety and care efficiency.
• - Championing Diversity and Inclusion: Promoting an equitable environment for all healthcare professionals.

Wyatt stated, “It is an incredible honor to join AORN as CEO and Executive Director. I have long supported AORN's unwavering commitment to perioperative nurses and promoting safe, evidence-based surgical care.” His aspirations for the organization include expanding AORN’s impact while ensuring nurses have vital resources to thrive in their professions.

AORN's Vision Going Forward

As Wyatt takes the helm, he is poised to cultivate a culture that values and addresses the concerns of AORN’s members—the backbone of safe surgical care. The process of innovation within perioperative nursing is vital to adapting to the evolving healthcare landscape. AORN's broader goal of ensuring safe surgery for every patient remains at the forefront as Wyatt brings his insights and experience. The organization, founded in 1949, has been instrumental in supporting over 200,000 perioperative nurses through extensive research, education, and advocacy initiatives.

Wyatt's leadership is expected to enhance collaboration between nurses, healthcare organizations, and industry partners, thereby furthering AORN's mission and empowering nursing professionals worldwide.