Reflections on a Successful Perioperative Nurse’s Journey

As I reflect on my journey as a perioperative nurse, I vividly remember so many firsts: the first time a surgeon handed me a patient's leg during a trauma case, my first kidney transplant where the patient began producing urine before we left the operating room, my first donor patient, my first pediatric donor, my first craniotomy, the first time I prayed with a patient, and the first time a patient called me an angel. My career in perioperative nursing spans over 30 years, during which I have experienced many significant milestones that have shaped my professional journey and gained many insights that I believe are worth sharing.

Darlene Murdock’s career as a perioperative staff nurse spans more than 30 years. Photos courtesy of Darlene Murdock.

Significant Milestones

The first major milestone occurred in my second year when I was appointed as the ophthalmology coordinator. Although I did not initially see myself as a leader, my preceptors and director recognized my potential, and I excelled in that role. They encouraged me to attend AORN meetings and pursue certification. My connection with AORN played a crucial role in my achievement of certification, which significantly boosted my self-confidence.

After starting my family, I continued to be actively involved with AORN by attending chapter meetings and conferences whenever possible, and I became an AORN Journal author. I participated in shared governance across my facility's campus, where I became known as an effective change agent. Additionally, I was the editor-in-chief of the surgical services newsletter and created check-off sheets for our trauma service line. As my son became more independent, I was able to deepen my involvement in AORN and took on various roles, including chapter president and chair of the Neuro, Ortho, and Trauma specialty assembly.

Over the years, I presented poster and podium presentations at AORN Global Surgical Conference and Expos. My involvement with AORN expanded nationally as I served on national committees and the board of directors. I am currently the AORN national president, a significant milestone I never imagined my journey would lead to.

Lessons Learned

One important lesson I've learned along my journey is to listen to and learn from those who have walked the path I want to follow. I want to share some of the lessons I've learned throughout my journey, particularly for those just starting their careers in the perioperative field.

• Build relationships with mentors, preceptors, and colleagues. They provide invaluable support, guidance, and encouragement throughout your career, especially in navigating the dynamic environment of perioperative nursing.
• Invest in your professional development and engage in continuous learning early in your career, so you are fully equipped to seize advancement opportunities when they arise. Learn as much as possible and develop your own style. Trust your instincts and follow your heart—your future self will thank you.
• Leverage your talents, knowledge, and expertise to advance your career. For example, my ability to write newsletters, journal articles, and check-off sheets has contributed to my career progression. Whatever your talents may be, don’t hesitate to share them.
• Get involved beyond the operating room by participating in shared governance and professional associations like AORN. This involvement fosters belonging and meaningful contributions to the nursing community. Through shared governance, I became an effective change agent, and with AORN, I enhanced my leadership skills.
• Reflect on your journey. Taking time to reflect on the moments that have shaped my career highlights the profound impact perioperative nurses have on patients’ lives. Each interaction matters and recognizing this can drive your passion and commitment to your practice. Each milestone—ranging from my first surgery to my current role as AORN national president—has provided me with unique lessons and reaffirmed my passion for perioperative nursing.

Final Takeaway

Embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth, and remember the power of connection, whether it be with patients, mentors, or your nursing community. You have the potential to make significant differences and to make meaningful changes happen. Let your passion guide you, your experiences shape you, and your dreams propel you forward. I wish you much success in your perioperative nursing journey.