Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Perioperative Nursing

Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) isn't just a moral imperative; it's essential for delivering equitable care to all patients and fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment.

Together, let's champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that every individual—periop nurses and patients—feels valued, respected, and empowered in the pursuit of optimal health outcomes.

Diverse Paths: Shared Purpose

Watch AORN leaders, Nakeisha Toliver, AORN President, and David Waytt, AORN Past President, discuss how DEI benefits both patients and nurses. DEI creates a welcoming environment for patients, improves care, and strengthens the nursing workforce by fostering a sense of belonging and reducing burnout.

Chapter Resource: Host an Inclusive Meeting

Download our Tool Kit for guidance on fostering diversity and inclusion in your chapter's discussions. Equip yourself with discussion prompts and actionable strategies to create a welcoming environment for all members. Download Tool Kit.

Win a DEI Summit Registration

Join AORN's inaugural DEI Summit at the Global Surgical Conference & Expo in Boston, April 5-8, 2025. Enter now for your chance to attend on us.

Watch select sessions from AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo 2024 and other live events.

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Insights for overcoming racism in perioperative nursing.

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The positive and negative impact of implicit biases.

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Nurturing Relationships with Spanish-Speaking Patients.

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An in person experience with focus on the perioperative setting.

Online Course: Unconscious Bias and Healthcare Disparities

Discover how unconscious bias impacts patient care in this engaging educational session. Explore its definition, dynamics, and effects on health outcomes. Learn practical tools and approaches to recognize and address unconscious bias, ensuring the best possible care for all patients. Access course.
Complimentary | 2 CH

Virtual Series: ECHO on Racism in Nursing

These 90-minute, case-based discussions led by expert faculty will empower you to confront systemic racism in the workplace and help you to emerge as a powerful ally in the fight against it. Watch recordings. Did you know AORN members receive affiliate membership with the American Nurses Association (ANA)? Explore ANA Affiliate resources.

Career Resources for Equal Pay in Perioperative Nursing

Discover valuable tools and support in our Career Center to empower your journey in perioperative nursing.

Salary Calculator

Unlock your earning potential. Ensure equitable compensation by comparing your pay to industry standards. (AORN members only) Go to Calculator.

Career Coaching

Receive professional guidance, inspiration, and support to help you reach your perioperative goals with a free 60-minute career coaching consultation. (AORN members only) Get coaching.

Fact: Male perioperative nurses earn a higher base wage than their female peers (2023 AORN Salary Survey).

DEI Articles and Resources for Perioperative Nurses

Stay informed, broaden your knowledge, and empower yourself to promote inclusivity in perioperative care.

The Periop Life

Non-AORN Webinars

Non-AORN Articles

Non-AORN Podcasts

Barba Edwards Endowment

The Barba Edwards Endowed Scholarship commemorates Edwards' tenure as president of AORN from 1976 to 1977. In tribute to her historic role as the first African American to hold this position, the scholarship supports students and nurses of color pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral degrees in nursing.

Apply
Donate

Pride Scholarship Fund

In 2022, the AORN Foundation proudly introduced the PRIDE Scholarship, designed to support LGBTQIA+ students as they advance their education in perioperative nursing. This scholarship is awarded for those pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in the field.

Apply
Donate

Join AORN

Your membership sustains our vital work. Join us today to support our value of fostering diversity and inclusivity in perioperative nursing. Plus, gain access to evidence-based and trusted resources to help elevate your perioperative practice. Together we rise.

AORN is committed to incorporating diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) principles into our work with our members, facilities, industry partners, in our communities and for our patients.

Learn more about our DEI plan.