The Hidden Cost of Calling
First Case Podcast
We’ve all heard it: “Nursing is a calling.” It sounds noble, but this romanticized language has a hidden price. It can normalize burnout, justify unsafe staffing, and excuse inadequate pay, all under the guise of dedication. In this eye-opening episode, Melanie Perry, BSN, RN, CNOR, CSSM, challenges the “calling” narrative and makes a case for recognizing nursing as the highly skilled, indispensable profession it truly is, and one that deserves respect, fair compensation, and safe working conditions. #operatingroom #nurse #nursing #perioperative
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How Do I... Engage Staff in Education?
First Case Podcast
It’s the Season 16 finale of First Case! We're wrapping up the season with a conversation you don’t want to miss. We sit down with Matt Lowe, Clinical Programs Director for SSIs at Medline, to explore how we can make OR education engaging, relevant, and effective. From gamification and escape-room style learning to the vital role of unit champions, Matt shares strategies to keep staff learning, prevent complacency, and ensure safe patient care. Tune in now! #operatingroom #ornurse #perioperative #OREducation #scrubtech #surgicaltechnologist
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StreetClothes: The Surfer
First Case Podcast
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for chasing waves and finding rhythm in the ocean’s tide. From early-morning paddles to the rush of a perfect swell, this surfer blends patience, balance, and energy into every ride. Tune in to hear how Eric Price paddles past the daily grind and chases the thrill of the waves… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and motivated, we'd love to hear from you! Message Hank Balch on LinkedIn for a...
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How Do I... Understand the AORN Guidelines?
First Case Podcast
Behind every AORN Guideline is a team of experts, years of research, and a commitment to safe, evidence-based perioperative care. In this week’s interview, we sit down with Erin Kyle, Editor-in-Chief of the AORN Guidelines for Perioperative Practice, to uncover exactly how these guidelines are created, vetted, and implemented. Erin takes us inside the process, clears up common misconceptions, and shows us how to implement them in our facilities. Listen now to learn how the guidelines are developed, why public comment matters, and where to find AORN’s ready-to-use resources for...
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When Communication Isn't A Game
First Case Podcast
Remember playing telephone as a kid? We always laughed with when the message got mixed up. But in the OR, miscommunication can change everything, and even lead to cancelled surgeries or patient safety issues. In this episode, Lindsay Joyce, MSN, RN, CNOR, shares a real-life call-back story that turned into a powerful lesson on why “closing the loop” in communication is essential for patient care, efficiency, and trust. #operatingroom #ornurse #communication #surgery #scrubtech
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How Do I... Study for the CNOR Exam?
First Case Podcast
Are you preparing for the CNOR exam, or helping others get ready? This week we’re joined by Wendy Zander, founder of Zander Perioperative Education, to share expert insight on how to approach CNOR certification with confidence. From study tips and testing strategies to understanding learning styles and building long-term retention, Wendy breaks it all down with practical advice and encouragement. Get ready to be set up for success! #operatingroom #CNOR #perioperative #ornurse #nurse
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StreetClothes: The Hairdresser
First Case Podcast
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a healthcare professional whose passion for style and connection comes to life behind the salon chair. From precision cuts to perfect color blends, this licensed cosmetologist blends artistry and care into every look she creates. Tune in to hear how Dr. Raynetta Stansil brings her signature style to helping people look and feel their best—one trim, one tone, and one transformation at a time… If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired,...
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How Do I... Cope With Death in the OR?
First Case Podcast
Death a heavy topic, and one we don’t talk about nearly enough. In this episode, Lindsey Joyce, CVOR nurse and First Case content creator shares her firsthand experiences with patient death in the operating room. From the emotional toll of trauma cases to the quiet aftermath of organ procurement, she offers insight, compassion, and practical advice for managing grief, supporting teammates, and preparing for the unexpected. Whether you’ve experienced this personally or are leading teams who have, this conversation is a powerful reminder that while death in the OR is rare, it’s real, and...
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How Do I... Prepare for the CST Exam?
First Case Podcast
Are you preparing for the CST exam or supporting someone who is? This week, we’re joined by Michelle Payne, President of the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA), for an in-depth look at what it takes to succeed. Join us as Michelle breaks down what the CST exam really measures and how the questions are developed. We'll also discover the biggest mistakes candidates make and learn a few tips to prepare, reduce anxiety, and pass with confidence! Whether you're a surgical tech, student, educator, or leader in the perioperative space, this episode offers valuable...
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StreetClothes: The Mixologist
First Case Podcast
On this episode of StreetClothes, we speak with a clinician with a passion for serving up something smooth, stirred, and served straight up with a twist. From experimenting with unexpected ingredients to selecting the perfect glassware, this mixologist blends flavor and creativity into every cocktail she creates. Tune in to hear how Lindsey Joyce shakes off the day and stirs up something entirely her own—one pour at a time. If you like this series OR have an interesting side-hustle, passion project, or hobby you do outside of your hospital day job that keeps you inspired, refreshed, and...
info_outlineIt’s here! Season 16 of the First Case podcast has officially dropped!
We’re kicking off the season with a raw and relatable conversation all about the questions we don’t always feel comfortable asking in the OR — but need to. In this episode, we'll dive into the daily uncertainties that even seasoned professionals face and how to navigate those “I have no idea what I’m doing” moments with humility, courage, and communication.
From learning without looking “dumb,” to managing surgical surprises, to reshaping toxic OR culture — this one’s for every nurse, tech, or student who's ever whispered, “How do I…?”
Remember, asking questions shouldn’t be a weakness — it’s the first step toward safer care and stronger teams.
#operatingroom #nursing #ornurse #perioperative #perioperativenurse #ORCulture #SurgicalTech #NurseLife #ScrubTech #ORLearning