First Case Podcast

First Case Podcast
First Case Podcast

Clock in, scrub up, and join us behind the red line. We are First Case – an operating room podcast bringing you exciting interviews, engaging discussions, and innovative solutions that are changing the way patients receive surgical care. Each episode we talk to frontline staff, perioperative leadership, and nursing entrepreneurs from across the country as they share their stories, experience and expertise on an industry we love. From the back table to the board room, from wheels in to wheels out. -- we tackle the real-life issues affecting the OR. Whether you’re tuning in for surgical service education or inspiration, we’re glad you're here. And now, it’s time to roll back, and start the First Case…

  1. But, Why? Suture 101 - Understanding the Essentials

    4 DAYS AGO

    But, Why? Suture 101 - Understanding the Essentials

    Suture is something every OR professional encounters daily, yet many of us were never properly taught how much about them. Why is suture sizing so confusing? What’s the difference between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures, and when should each be used? In this episode of First Case, we’re diving deep into the world of suture, breaking down monofilament vs. multifilament options, discussing how suture coatings impact healing, and uncovering common mistakes that could affect patient outcomes. Whether you're a seasoned perioperative professional or just starting out, this conversation will give you the confidence to navigate suture selection like a pro. Tune in now! #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #surgery #perioperative

    33 min
  2. But, Why? The Truth About Trendelenburg

    FEB 10

    But, Why? The Truth About Trendelenburg

    Trendelenburg is a common position in the OR, but are we truly positioning patients safely? In this episode of First Case, we welcome back David Gomez, nurse anesthetist and CEO of Infinitus Medical, to uncover the risks, misconceptions, and best practices for safe Trendelenburg positioning. In today's episode we'll discuss: 🔹 Why degree and duration matter more than you think 🔹 The hidden dangers of extreme angles and prolonged positioning 🔹 Common injuries - compartment syndrome, brachial plexus damage, and skin shearing 🔹 How to advocate for safer practices despite OR hierarchies 🔹 The role of proper positioning devices and what to avoid Join us as David shares real-world stories, research-backed insights, and practical solutions. #operatingroom #ornurse #trendelenburg #crna #scrubtech #surgery #patientpositioning

    37 min
  3. But, Why? Avoiding Positioning Pitfalls

    FEB 3

    But, Why? Avoiding Positioning Pitfalls

    Positioning patients in the OR isn’t just about access to the surgical site—it’s about preventing serious injuries. From nerve damage and tissue ischemia to long-term functional impairment, improper positioning can have devastating consequences. But with the right knowledge and attention to detail, many of these injuries are completely preventable. Tune in as Chris and Melanie break down the risks, the science behind positioning injuries, and the steps you can take to keep your patients safe. Don't miss it! 🎧 #operatingroom #ornurse #scrubtech #patientpositioning #podcast #perioperative

    33 min
  4. But, Why? Unpacking the Protection in PPE

    JAN 27

    But, Why? Unpacking the Protection in PPE

    Are all of the PPE rules we have in the OR really necessary? Joining us this week to uncover the purpose behind the rules and guidelines is Jill Holdsworth, Infection Prevention Manager at Emory University Hospital Midtown in Atlanta, Georgia. Tune in as Jill breaks down the basics of PPE and its critical role in the OR. We'll discuss common PPE items and unpack the reasons WHY our PPE is essential for patient and staff safety. And of course, we'll tackle the ever-controversial bouffant-over-scrub-cap debate! Don't miss this informative episode!

    28 min
  5. But, Why? Tips, Tricks, & Everyday Best Practice

    JAN 20

    But, Why? Tips, Tricks, & Everyday Best Practice

    How do we approach sterility and proper technique in ways that prioritize patient safety and best practices? And why does it matter? In today's episode, Chris and Melanie are diving into the nitty-gritty details of sterile technique — because in the Operating Room, there’s no room for "good enough." Tune in to find out why as we discuss guidelines, best practices, and the common mistakes that have become acceptable by many perioperative professionals. We'll also discuss the critical do's and don'ts of sterile field management, and reveal some of the tips and tricks we've picked up along the way. Tune in now!   #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #surgicaltechnologist #scrubtech #scrub #bestpractice

    28 min
  6. But, Why? Why Accurate Documentation Matters

    JAN 13

    But, Why? Why Accurate Documentation Matters

    Is charting really that important? Joining us today to discuss the vital role that documentation plays in the operating room is Anna Gray, RNFA and Legal Nurse Consultant. From understanding what to document to exploring the connection between nurses’ notes and surgeons’ operative reports, Anna shares her expertise on why every detail matters.  Tune in to hear compelling courtroom examples where documentation made or broke the case, and discover the broader purpose of documentation that goes beyond legal protection. Proper documentation isn’t just a task—it’s a tool for patient safety, supply chain efficiency, and telling the patient’s story. Join us for an insightful discussion about why accurate charting is essential for both patient care and professional practice.   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #perioperative #scrubtech

    39 min
  7. But, Why? Rethinking Habits, Rules, & Sacred Cows

    JAN 6

    But, Why? Rethinking Habits, Rules, & Sacred Cows

    Welcome to Season 14 of First Case! This season, we’re tackling the question: “But, why?” Why do we do the things we do in the OR? From practices we swear by to those that might need to be retired, nothing is off-limits as we explore the reasoning—or lack thereof—behind our routines. In this season premier, Chris and Melanie dive into some of the most common OR habits, rules, and sacred cows, and unpack the “why” behind them. Chris shines a light on the frustrations caused by poor communication, touching on pref cards, supply handling, and the importance of sharing critical information to the entire team Meanwhile, Melanie challenges the long-standing bouffant and scrub cap debate, breaking down its origins, the changes over time, and whether this rule still holds up to current evidence. Get ready for an engaging, thought-provoking episode that sets the tone for a season full of questioning, learning, and maybe even a little myth-busting. Tune in and let’s uncover the “why” together!   #operatingroom #ornurse #surgery #perioperative #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist

    28 min
  8. Perioperative Nursing Around The World: Celebrating Perioperative Nurses in Spain

    12/30/2024

    Perioperative Nursing Around The World: Celebrating Perioperative Nurses in Spain

    While we wait for Season 14, we're bringing you an audio version of our Perioperative Nurses Week video interview series. Catch up on any interview you missed and travel around the world with us!  How would you like to get a post-graduate degree in Perioperative nursing? In Spain, you can! Today we're traveling to Spain to learn more about perioperative nursing and nursing education from Esther Espunes Mestres. Esther has a great story to share with us, so tune in and learn what it's like to train and be an OR nurse in Spain! #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperativenursesweek #nurse #perioperative #perioperative

    26 min
See All (98)

4.7
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Clock in, scrub up, and join us behind the red line. We are First Case – an operating room podcast bringing you exciting interviews, engaging discussions, and innovative solutions that are changing the way patients receive surgical care. Each episode we talk to frontline staff, perioperative leadership, and nursing entrepreneurs from across the country as they share their stories, experience and expertise on an industry we love. From the back table to the board room, from wheels in to wheels out. -- we tackle the real-life issues affecting the OR. Whether you’re tuning in for surgical service education or inspiration, we’re glad you're here. And now, it’s time to roll back, and start the First Case…

Information

  • Creator
    First Case Podcast
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    98
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    First Case Media © 2021
  • Show Website
    First Case Podcast

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