First Case Podcast

Behind every product on the OR shelf is a story of collaboration, evaluation, and evidence-based decision-making, not just a surgeon's request. This week we sit down with Joe Chua, OR Nurse and Value Analysis Professional from Dallas, Texas, to unpack the complex process of how surgical products make it from idea to implementation. Together, we'll explore the intersection of clinical practice and supply chain strategy, the importance of communication between teams, and the critical role of value analysis in supporting patient safety and financial stewardship. If you've ever wondered how product decisions are really made in healthcare, you won't want to miss this conversation. #operatingroom #supplychain #ornurse #scrubtech #podcast

A long-standing myth in the operating room continues to circulate is that surgical technologists work under the license of the OR nurse. In this week's episode of First Case, we're setting the record straight. Tune in as we speak with Angel Pickett, Surgical Technology Program Director at Connecticut State Community College, Gateway Campus. Together, we'll explore: The education, training, and certification requirements for surgical technologists The true scope of practice and delegation under surgeon supervision How clear understanding of roles strengthens collaboration and teamwork in the OR This insightful conversation challenges misconceptions, promotes professional respect, and highlights how every member of the surgical team contributes to patient safety and excellence in care. Don't miss it!   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative

🦐 Shellfish Allergy ≠ Iodine Allergy! 🧴 For decades, perioperative teams have avoided iodine-based prep solutions for patients with shellfish allergies, but what if that long-held precaution wasn't necessary? In this week's episode of First Case, we're talking with Laila Bailey, Service Leader for Pediatrics and Urology at Inova Fairfax Hospital, about the myth linking shellfish allergies to iodine and Betadine. Laila shares her personal story, the history behind the misconception, and the research proving there's no real connection. 🎧 Tune in to bust the myth, protect your patients, and learn how questioning "what we've always done" can improve surgical care. #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #evidencebasedpractice

Is a cold OR really better for patient infection prevention, or is it just another myth we've been holding onto for too long?  In this week's episode, we're joined by Garret Hollenbeak, System Infection Preventionist at Bon Secours Mercy Health and Editor-in-Chief of our sister podcast, Transmission Control. Together, we dig into the science behind temperature management in the OR, breaking down the difference between room temperature and patient temperature, the importance of maintaining normothermia, and how factors like humidity, staff comfort, and infection prevention all connect. We'll also discuss how teamwork between infection prevention and OR staff is essential for keeping patients safe. 🎧 Tune in to hear why a "cold" OR might not be as protective as you think, and how evidence-based practice helps us strike the right balance between comfort, safety, and outcomes. #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #infectionprevention #patientsafety #podcast

"You can't cover your back table!" or can you? 🤔 For years, many of us were taught that covering a back table was never allowed. But AST and AORN guidelines say otherwise, as long as it's done correctly. Join Melanie Perry and Chris Blevins as they kick off a brand-new season of First Case by busting this long-standing myth. They'll dive into when covering a back table is appropriate, how to do it safely, and why understanding the why behind the practice matters for every surgical team. Tune in to the Season 17 premiere now! #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #podcast #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

It's the Season 16 finale of First Case! We're wrapping up the season with a conversation you don't want to miss. We sit down with Matt Lowe, Clinical Programs Director for SSIs at Medline, to explore how we can make OR education engaging, relevant, and effective. From gamification and escape-room style learning to the vital role of unit champions, Matt shares strategies to keep staff learning, prevent complacency, and ensure safe patient care. Tune in now! #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #OREducation #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

Behind every AORN Guideline is a team of experts, years of research, and a commitment to safe, evidence-based perioperative care. In this week's interview, we sit down with Erin Kyle, Editor-in-Chief of the AORN Guidelines for Perioperative Practice, to uncover exactly how these guidelines are created, vetted, and implemented. Erin takes us inside the process, clears up common misconceptions, and shows us how to implement them in our facilities.  Listen now to learn how the guidelines are developed, why public comment matters, and where to find AORN's ready-to-use resources for seamless implementation.  #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #guidelines #perioperativenurse #surgery

Are you preparing for the CNOR exam, or helping others get ready? This week we're joined by Wendy Zander, founder of Zander Perioperative Education, to share expert insight on how to approach CNOR certification with confidence. From study tips and testing strategies to understanding learning styles and building long-term retention, Wendy breaks it all down with practical advice and encouragement. Get ready to be set up for success! #operatingroom #CNOR #perioperative #ornurse #nurse

Death a heavy topic, and one we don't talk about nearly enough. In this episode, Lindsey Joyce, CVOR nurse and First Case content creator shares her firsthand experiences with patient death in the operating room. From the emotional toll of trauma cases to the quiet aftermath of organ procurement, she offers insight, compassion, and practical advice for managing grief, supporting teammates, and preparing for the unexpected. Whether you've experienced this personally or are leading teams who have, this conversation is a powerful reminder that while death in the OR is rare, it's real, and we must be equipped to process it with empathy and care. Tune in to learn more. #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #perioperative #podcast

Are you preparing for the CST exam or supporting someone who is? This week, we're joined by Michelle Payne, President of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), for an in-depth look at what it takes to succeed. Join us as Michelle breaks down what the CST exam really measures and how the questions are developed. We'll also discover the biggest mistakes candidates make and learn a few tips to prepare, reduce anxiety, and pass with confidence! Whether you're a surgical tech, student, educator, or leader in the perioperative space, this episode offers valuable insights into why certification matters, how it protects both patients and the profession, and how you can prepare for success! #operatingroom #CST #surgicaltech #scrubtech #ornurse #ornurses #perioperative

Learning how to scrub isn't as simple as just watching a few cases and picking it up as you go—at least, not if we're committed to keeping our patients safe. In this week's episode of First Case, we dive into the complexities of learning to scrub, whether you're starting from scratch in a formal surgical tech program, getting on-the-job training, or you're a nurse suddenly being asked to scrub in without the right background. We cover why muscle memory is critical, why knowing why we do what we do matters just as much as the how, and the risks of passing down bad habits because "this is how I was taught." We also share practical tips and resources for anyone who wants to grow their skills—because in the OR, learning never stops. Whether you're new to scrubbing or have 30 years of experience, there's always something new to learn, and there's no room for gatekeeping knowledge when patient safety is on the line. #operatingroom #ornurse #operatingroomnurses #surgery #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

We desperately want our ORs to be efficient. So do our surgeons. So why does it feel like productive engagement and communication is often easier said than done? As daunting as it may sometimes seem, engaging with our surgeons is crucial to improving efficiency, communication, and collaboration in the OR. In this episode of First Case, we're joined by orthopedic surgeon and DOCSI CMO Dr. Pearce McCarty, who offers an open and honest look at how perioperative staff can better engage with surgeons—without conflict, frustration, or being ignored. From the constant struggle with preference card accuracy to communication failures, we're going to discuss some of the real-life challenges we face in the OR. Tune in to learn how to approach surgeons more effectively, start conversations that actually lead to change, improve preference card accuracy and reduce waste, and create more efficient, collaborative surgical teams. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation! #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #perioperative #perioperativenurse #communication #ScrubTech #SurgicalTechnologist #podcast

It's here! Season 16 of the First Case podcast  has officially dropped! We're kicking off the season with a raw and relatable conversation all about the questions we don't always feel comfortable asking in the OR — but need to. In this episode, we'll dive into the daily uncertainties that even seasoned professionals face and how to navigate those "I have no idea what I'm doing" moments with humility, courage, and communication. From learning without looking "dumb," to managing surgical surprises, to reshaping toxic OR culture — this one's for every nurse, tech, or student who's ever whispered, "How do I…?" Remember, asking questions shouldn't be a weakness — it's the first step toward safer care and stronger teams. #operatingroom #nursing #ornurse #perioperative #perioperativenurse #ORCulture #SurgicalTech #NurseLife #ScrubTech #ORLearning

Autopsy tech Amanda Krygier joins us in the First Case season finale to pull back the curtain on a rarely discussed, deeply meaningful part of patient care - postmortem care. From collecting organs and evidence to comforting grieving families with answers, Amanda shares how compassion continues— even after life ends.  In this episode, we explore: 🧠 What autopsy techs actually do ⚖️ How they handle criminal cases & evidence 🩺 Why empathy matters, even in death Tune in now to learn more about the final chapter of patient care.  #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #scrubtech #perioperativenurse

What happens when the patient on your OR table is an inmate —or a victim of violent crime? 👮‍♂️  This week, we sit down with David Bowman, faculty with the School of Legal Studies at South College in Tennessee, to explore the legal, ethical, and emotional challenges of treating these patients. From chain of custody to managing personal bias, this episode is a must-listen for every perioperative professional. #FirstCasePodcast #PerioperativeNursing #TraumaCare #SurgicalTeam #LegalStudies #PatientCare #NursingEducation

In this week's episode of First Case, perioperative consultant Vangie Dennis joins us to explore how generational differences impact patient care. From Traditionalists to Gen Z, each group brings unique values, communication styles, and expectations into the surgical setting. Learn how to tailor your approach, improve patient engagement, and avoid common missteps across the generational spectrum.   #operatingroom #perioperative #perioperativenurse #generationalcare #podcast #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #surgicaltech

In this week's episode of First Case, we sit down with JD Buchert, Director of Workforce Safety at Parkland Health in Dallas, TX, to discuss the unique challenges transgender patients face as they navigate the healthcare setting. Did you know that over 70% of transgender individuals turn to emergency departments for care, often due to discrimination or harassment in other medical spaces? In this powerful discussion, JD highlights the importance of using gender-affirming language and treating each patient with respect, leaving biases at the door. He shares how inclusive care not only improves patient outcomes but also reduces overall healthcare costs. Tune in to learn how to create a safe, compassionate environment for everyone.  #operatingroom #ornurse #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #perioperativenurse

Delivering truly patient-centered care requires cultural awareness and sensitivity. In this week's episode of First Case, Charlie Lin, Nurse Practitioner and First Assist at Stanford Children's Pediatric Otolaryngology, shares key considerations for providing culturally competent surgical care to Asian patients. Learn how to recognize cultural differences, navigate family dynamics, and enhance communication to improve patient outcomes and foster trust in the perioperative setting.   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgicaltechnology #scrubtech  #FirstCasePodcast #CulturalCompetence #PerioperativeCare

In this week's episode, we're changing our focus, and seeing the operating room through the eyes of the patient. Becca Kinney—a former sterile processing technician, medical sales representative, and now entrepreneur—joins us to share her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor. With a clinical background and firsthand experience undergoing multiple surgeries, Becca offers a unique and deeply moving perspective on surgical care. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of her diagnosis and treatment, the value of clear communication and compassionate care, and how even the smallest gestures from caregivers can have a lasting impact. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every procedure is a person who is scared, vulnerable, and in need of connection. Tune in for an episode that underscores the importance of empathy, anticipatory guidance, and truly seeing our patients as people. #operatingroom #perioperativenurse #surgicaltechnologist #perioperative #FirstCasePodcast #BreastCancerAwareness #PatientExperience #PerioperativeCare #SurgicalTeam #HealthcareProfessionals #SterileProcessing #EmpathyInMedicine

Implicit bias - it's unconscious, it's uncomfortable, and it affects patient care more than we may realize. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Darlene Murdock, Staff Nurse at Memorial Hermann Hospital, to explore how our own hidden biases can lead to unequal treatment, impact patient outcomes, and create barriers to compassionate care. Darlene shares real-life stories, eye-opening stats, and actionable steps to help us become more self-aware and patient-focused in the OR and beyond. Tune in now to take the first step toward understanding your own implicit bias! #operatingroom #perioperative #perioperativenurse #implicitbias #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #podcast