Key Insights on Building Strong Operating Room Cultures
Rachel K. Butt ran a thought-provoking poll last week on creating effective succession plans, with the top response emphasizing the importance of workplace culture. To dive deeper, I reached out to past clients and candidates to identify the best operating room cultures they’ve experienced and the defining characteristics that made them exceptional.
I was particularly struck by Ruth Plotkin Shumaker, MS,BSN,RN,CNOR response: “Trust.”
In my experience, she’s spot-on. Most breakdowns in relationships and communication stem from a lack oftrust. Ruth elaborated:
“Establishing trust is crucial. A team where people trust one another is characterized by cooperation, collaboration, and mutual respect. To build trust, members must feel safe voicing their opinions without fear of criticism, knowing their thoughts will be valued and respected.”
Absolutely, Ruth. Well said.
Bruce Grendell and Deborah Spratt MPA BSN RN CNOR CRCST CHL echoed a similar sentiment, focusing on a culture that prioritizes patient and staff safety. Bruce described it as a “Highly Reliable Organization,” while Deb added:
“The OR is a specialized area that requires not only a general culture of safety advocacy but also expertise in specific OR issues, such as Correct Site Surgery, prevention of retained foreign bodies, correct handling ofspecimens, surgical smoke evacuation, and interpersonal team behavior. That knowledge comes with experience and is fundamental to a safe perioperative environment for both patients and staff.”
Takeaway: A strong OR culture places patients at the center and is built on a foundation of trust.
Before I wrap up, here are some additional insights from others:
- Lynda Cramer: “Provide flexible scheduling.”
- Gayle Fox: “A Chief of Surgery who holds colleagues accountable for any issues.”
- Adrienne Oden: “Small, multi-disciplinary groups collaborating quickly on shared problems.”
- Paul Giles: “Recognize and reward desired behaviors publicly.”
These perspectives highlight the diverse elements that contribute to a thriving OR culture, from trust and safety to flexibility and accountability.
Warmly,
CEO, Whitman Partners
The search firm for Directors of Surgical Services
