‘An invaluable learning experience:’ New program brings neuro nurses to the OR for surgical observation
Alessandra De Rose and Omar Arnaout
Alessandra De Rose, BSN, RN, has been caring for neurosurgery patients on Braunwald Tower 10BCD/5D for three years, including many who have undergone a craniotomy. “I care for patients before and after neurosurgery, but I’d never actually seen these procedures in the OR – which is a really important part of the patient’s journey,” said De Rose.
Recognizing that a deeper understanding of surgical procedures can positively impact post-operative care, Omar Arnaout, MD, Neurosurgery, and Siobhan Raftery MSN, RN, CNRN, nurse director of the Neuroscience Intermediate unit on 10BCD/5D, launched a new initiative to enable nurses on the unit to observe neurosurgeries in the Operating Room.
“We thought this would be a great way to help our nurses understand what patients experience during surgery,” said Raftery.
Raftery and Arnaout initiated the planning process in early 2024, with the first observation occurring on Jan. 1, 2025.
The response to the program has been positive, with nurses expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity to visit the OR and get a firsthand look at some of the surgeries patients undergo.
“Witnessing the advanced technology firsthand and understanding the reasons behind post-operative symptoms helped me to further understand the patient’s full hospital experience,” said De Rose. “I feel that this experience greatly enhanced my ability to provide insight and reassure patients about what to expect in the operating room, fostering their comfort. I am truly grateful to be part of a team that prioritizes teaching and collaboration!”
Jessica D’Andrea, BSN, RN, clinical nurse on 10BCD/5D, agreed. “The opportunity to observe Dr. Arnaout’s work was an invaluable learning experience which I believe will continue to foster collaboration and growth within the nursing and surgical teams. The experience allowed me to make connections to what we see on the floor, better understanding these complex surgeries.”
Over the next month, six more nurses from 10BCD/5D will participate in the program.
“This program has been a tremendous opportunity to bridge the gap between the operating room and the floor, by observing the procedures and technology firsthand, our neuro nurses gain insights that truly enhance post-operative care,” said Arnaout. “It’s inspiring to see how this shared experience fosters deeper collaboration across teams, ultimately benefiting our patients at every stage of their journey.”