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The Stitch is a monthly newsletter for nurses in their early perioperative years who want bite-sized, guideline-aligned insights to sharpen clinical judgment, build confidence, and grow their careers in the OR.
In 2026, The Stitch moved into Periop Corner, AORN’s member community, so readers can connect, ask questions, and keep the conversation going. Curious about what’s new? Sign up to receive The Stitch each month and see how it’s evolved.
Below, you’ll find articles from our past issues—free to explore.
One of the common questions I am asked by novice nurses is, “When will I know everything I need to be a safe and competent perioperative nurse?” Here is how I respond to those nurses.
Take some time to reflect and discover what it is that motivates you. Dig deep and find your purpose. And answer this question for yourself, “Why do I work in the OR?”
As a new nurse, how do I convince my teammates that I know what I’m doing (mostly)?
Test your knowledge about sterile technique with this acrostic puzzle.
Some of the skills perioperative nurses need to support their patients cannot be taught in a classroom, making the relationship between nurse preceptor and preceptee vital.
Dr. DeBakey left an astonishing legacy of surgical innovation, medical education and research, and health care policy, as well as thousands of patients whose lives were saved by his skills.
One nurse shares her journey to becoming a perioperative nurse.
The ESU consists of an electrosurgical generator with connections for a foot pedal, handpiece, and dispersive electrode (ie, grounding pad, Bovie pad).
This article provides an example of how an annual competency for preoperative patient skin antisepsis was created and proctored in a series of steps.
Be prepared, communicate, and keep your cool! Read all these insights for surviving in the OR as the new person on the team.
