Operation Collaboration: Supply Chain – The Art and Science of Having What You Need

We’re kicking off Season 18 of First Case with a topic that impacts every single case we run, but doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves: supply chain. In this season premiere, we’re joined by Gary Skinner of Discover S3 Consulting to talk about what really happens behind the scenes to make surgery possible.

From onboarding new surgeons and managing backorders to building trust, improving communication, managing expectations, and keeping the mission focused on the patient, this conversation makes one thing clear: when supply chain and the OR aren’t aligned, everyone feels it. If you’ve ever scrambled for missing supplies, dealt with last-minute surprises, or wondered how these gaps could be avoided, this episode is for you.

#operatingroom #supplychain #surgery #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech

Thriving Through Uncertainty: Modern Approaches to Change Management

Happy Holidays! As we celebrate the season, we’re giving you a special bonus episode of First Case featuring Phyllis Quinlan, RN, President and CEO of MFW Consultants. In this timely conversation, Phyllis shares powerful insights on navigating persistent uncertainty, reframing “change” as growth and evolution, and leading teams with empathy, clarity, and solidarity during unprecedented times.

As we close out the year and look ahead to what’s next, this episode offers practical wisdom for leaders and perioperative professionals facing ongoing change without losing sight of their mission or purpose.

#operatingroom #ornurse #nurse #scrubtech #podcast

Top 10: Gynecology

Blue Towels, Dirty Loupes, and… Perineal Fallout?!

In our season finale of First Case, we unpack two OR practices that many of us have seen (or done!), from adjusting surgical loupes with blue towels to the truly legendary myth of “perineal fallout.”

This episode blends humor, history, and evidence-based practice as we talk about why some habits stick, how outdated ideas persist, and what it means to stay lifelong learners in the perioperative space.

If you’re ready for a few laughs, a few gasps, and a lot of “lightbulb moments,” join us for the wrap-up of a season dedicated to challenging old ideas and improving how we care for patients.

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #podcast #perioperative

Thanksgiving Top 10

It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is next week! As we head into the holiday, it’s a good time to reflect on the many things we’re grateful for, both personally and professionally. In the latest First Case Articles on the Go, Melanie highlights a thoughtful (and relatable) Top 10 list of things we appreciate most about working in the operating room.

👉 Take a moment to listen to the full article and consider what you’re most thankful for in your own practice this year!

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Articles On-the-Go presents perioperative insights from written articles in a creative, easy to listen, audio format. Think audio book, meets busy Operating Room professional!

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #thanksgiving #thankful

The Truth About Instrument Reprocessing Times

This week on First Case, we’re joined by Bobby Parker from Beyond Clean to tackle a major perioperative myth: instrument reprocessing is quick and easy.

Using real workflow examples and years of SPD leadership experience, Bobby breaks down the full lifecycle of an instrument tray, from decontam to assembly to sterilization, and explains why a safe, compliant turnaround simply can’t be rushed.

Tune in to learn more about what really happens in sterile processing, why safe turnaround times matter, and how better OR–SPD collaboration can prevent delays and protect patients.

#operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #sterileprocessing #nurse #mythbusters