Perioperative assistants are a new resource.

In the current health care environment, buzzwords such as redesign, reengineering, restructuring, right-sizing, customer service, diversity, quality, multiskilled workers, and unlicensed assistive personnel conjure up many notions about how perioperative nurses can meet the needs and wants of their patients. Unlicensed assistive personnel are becoming commonplace in our hospitals and have assumed a variety of positions and functions. This article describes a project that one hospital undertook to create unlicensed, multiskilled workers in the perioperative area.

It is time to move from the nursing process to critical thinking.

As we reflect on the concept of critical thinking in perioperative nursing practice, we should ask ourselves whether we think critically. If not, we must learn the principles of critical thinking and apply them in our clinical practice settings. Our perioperative nurse managers and directors must demonstrate critical thinking in leading other nurses in the delivery of quality, cost-effective, service-oriented patient care. They also must identify peers who use critical thinking skills to support and sustain them in their quest.

Preparing for the future: perianesthesia orientation.

A comprehensive orientation for RNs to perianesthesia nursing is essential for nurses who are new to the area because of the specialized skills and knowledge required. A massive restructuring of the existing orientation was undertaken to better prepare nurses for these challenges and to reduce costs. A competency-based orientation program was developed by the educator, the supervisors, and the preceptors. The concept of competency-based education is explored. The program development, implementation, and evaluation phases are highlighted. The results have been positive and rewarding with an improved outcome: a competent new perianesthesia care nurse.

Competency-based orientation for registered perioperative nurses.

A comprehensive orientation is essential for new nurses who plan to practice in the perioperative area. The traditional perioperative orientation program at our hospital was not effective, so we developed a competency-based orientation program to improve patient care, decrease costs, and increase new nurses' confidence and perioperative skills. Program results have been positive and rewarding and have provided many new perioperative registered nurses whose practice is based on sound principles.

Crossword puzzles: a teaching strategy for critical care nursing.

Crossword puzzles are an effective teaching and learning tool in critical care education. They are especially effective for teaching details that need to be memorized. The positive outcomes are well worth the creative efforts of the educator.

Games in nursing staff development.

Adult learners have different learning styles and needs. To facilitate learning in a mixed group, various strategies must be used. Games have proven to be effective in basic and continuing nursing education. Educational games are gaining popularity in nursing staff development. This article discusses games in nursing staff development.

Care of the infant in a Pavlik harness.

Congenital hip dysplasias, a common orthopaedic problem in children, can be treated effectively if diagnosed early. One such valuable tool in treating this disorder is the Pavlik Harness. These authors describe their child's experience with the Pavlik Harness along with the personal needs of the child and family.

Patient education: theory and practice.

Patient education is an important component of quality nursing care. Nurses must be prepared to teach their patients in the promotion of health and recovery from illness. This article addresses the theories and practices of patient education. An example of a patient education program is described.