171 - Transforming Perioperative Onboarding and Education Through Multimodal Learning

Description: Our perioperative education team, composed of 4 nursing professional development specialists, identified a need for a more efficient, inclusive, and structured onboarding process. Preparation began with a comprehensive assessment of current onboarding practices, staff feedback, and alignment with organizational goals for workforce readiness and retention.

The team conducted an environmental scan and gap analysis, revealing inconsistencies in orientation, limited role clarity for scrub techs, and a lack of multimodal learning options. In response, we designed a two-phase program: a structured onboarding phase incorporating Periop 101 and an in-house Scrub Tech Certification Program, followed by the On-U Program, which delivers ongoing education through multiple learning methods tailored to diverse learning styles.

Implementation included the integration of Microsoft Teams, Forms, Excel dashboards, QR codes, and automated messaging to streamline communication, track progress, and support just-in-time learning. Staff were engaged through peer mentoring, hands-on practice, and self-paced digital content.

Outcomes include improved onboarding efficiency, increased learner engagement, enhanced confidence among new hires, and positive feedback from staff and leadership. Preliminary data suggest reduced orientation time and improved retention, particularly among new-to-practice nurses and scrub techs.

This initiative demonstrates how structured, multimodal, and technology-enhanced education can improve perioperative onboarding and support professional growth. It offers a replicable model for other surgical services seeking to modernize clinical education and improve workforce outcomes.