AORN Integrates Living Systematic Review Methodology Into Industry-Leading Guideline Review Process

Denver, CO (August 5, 2026) – The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) is integrating a Living Systematic Review (LSR) process into the way it updates its evidence-based Guidelines for Perioperative Practice, helping perioperative nurses access guidance informed by current evidence as it becomes available.

Unlike traditional systematic reviews, which are static, an LSR is designed to remain current and responsive to new evidence over time.

"This process helps expedite the review and sharing of new evidence and guidance for perioperative nurses when they need it most," said AORN CEO and Executive Director David Wyatt. "In the OR, perioperative nurses make complex decisions in fast-moving, high-stakes situations. Knowing their guidance is based on the latest evidence gives them the confidence to act decisively and provide safe and effective patient-centered care."

For years, AORN has aligned with the National Academy of Medicine standards, which established expectations for rigor, transparency, and systematic updating of clinical guidelines.

The LSR process does not mean that every new study automatically changes a guideline. Instead, newly identified evidence is reviewed using a structured process to determine whether it confirms existing guidance, supports updates to the evidence base or rationale language, or indicates that a recommendation should be reconsidered. This helps AORN keep its Guidelines current while maintaining stability for the nurses and teams who use them.

What This Means for Nurses

For perioperative nurses, the LSR methodology means new research is identified and evaluated on an ongoing basis, tailored to the guideline topic. Guideline authors critically appraise the emerging evidence, evaluate how the new knowledge translates to meaningful practice recommendations, and determine whether real-time updates are needed.

"Instead of relying only on large, periodic revisions, the Living Systematic Review process enables continuous evaluation of emerging evidence to strengthen the relevance, timeliness, and impact of guidance for perioperative practice," said AORN Senior Director of Evidence-Based Practice Dr. Lisa Spruce.

About AORN

Founded in 1949, AORN supports more than 200,000 perioperative nurses with evidence-based research, education, standards, and resources to enable optimal outcomes and promote safe surgery for every patient, every time.

For more information, visit aorn.org.