RN Reading Hospital- Tower Health Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania, United States
Disclosure(s):
Connie Yeager, MSN, RN, RN-BC, NE-BC, CNOR: No financial relationships to disclose
Description: The operating room (OR) presents a uniquely high-pressure environment that often challenges new nurses' confidence, competence, and long-term retention. Traditional mentorship models, while supportive, may fall short of meeting the dynamic needs of today's perioperative workforce. This podium presentation explores an innovative approach to mentorship that integrates intentional engagement activities to foster deeper connection, professional growth, and improved nurse retention.
Through the lens of a re-imagined mentorship framework, attendees will learn how structured engagement strategies-such as buddy badge programs, peer recognition events, small wins celebrations, and interactive peer panels-can strengthen mentor-mentee relationships and build a resilient OR team culture. Evidence-informed practices and pilot program outcomes will be shared, demonstrating measurable improvements in mentee satisfaction, confidence, and turnover rates.
By incorporating targeted engagement activities, mentorship transforms from a passive support system into an active, relationship-centered model that prioritizes belonging, professional development, and shared success. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools and strategies to design or enhance mentorship programs that respond to the evolving needs of the perioperative workforce.
This session offers a call to action: to move beyond traditional mentorship methods and embrace engagement as the driving force behind sustainable retention and team vitality in preoperative nursing.
