1089 - Bridging the Gaps: Inclusion and Generational Dynamics in the OR

Overview/Abstract: The OR is a high-stakes, fast-paced environment that demands seamless teamwork, clear communication, and mutual respect. Yet, as surgical teams become increasingly diverse across dimensions such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, and generation, new challenges and opportunities emerge in maintaining cohesion and optimizing patient care.

This presentation explores the current landscape of demographic and generational diversity in perioperative services highlighting the real-world impact on team dynamics, communication styles, conflict resolution, and decision-making. Generational cohorts differ significantly in values, expectations, and communication preferences, while persistent disparities in representation contribute to feelings of isolation, implicit bias and inequity among underrepresented staff.

Participants will gain insights into how these dynamics affect psychological safety, performance, and retention in the OR environment. Case examples and implementation tools will be shared to help leaders and team members translate insight into action.