Scrub Bootcamp at AORN 2026 Addresses Perioperative Training Gaps and Builds OR Confidence

One of the persistent challenges in perioperative practice is ensuring that new nurses transition from foundational education to real-world surgical competence with confidence and consistency. At the 2026 (Association of periOperative Registered Nurses) AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo (AORN26), a poster presentation from the Cleveland Clinic highlighted an innovative approach to addressing this gap: a service-line-specific Scrub Bootcamp designed to prepare perioperative nurses for the realities of the operating room.

Presented by Krystyna Howard, BSN, RN, CNOR, a perioperative educator at Cleveland Clinic in Parma, Ohio, the program focuses on bridging the disconnect between general OR residency training and the specialized skills required within individual surgical services.

Bridging the Gap Between Training and Practice

Traditional perioperative onboarding often provides a broad overview of surgical principles but may fall short in preparing nurses for the nuances of specific procedures and service lines. Variability in precepting and inconsistent exposure to cases can further complicate the learning process.

The Scrub Bootcamp addresses these challenges by offering a structured, immersive learning experience that emphasizes both technical skill development and clinical reasoning. Rather than relying solely on observation or on-the-job learning, participants engage in guided, hands-on practice that mirrors real surgical workflows.

This targeted approach allows learners to build competence in a controlled environment before stepping into high-pressure clinical situations.

Hands-On Learning with Real-World Expectations

A defining feature of the bootcamp is its focus on high-impact technical skills and time-sensitive execution. Participants are expected not only to understand procedures but also to perform them under realistic conditions, reinforcing both speed and accuracy.

The program incorporates structured assessments that allow educators to evaluate proficiency and identify areas for improvement. This ensures that learners are not only exposed to key concepts but are also able to demonstrate their ability to apply them in practice.

By simulating real operating room conditions, the bootcamp helps reduce the cognitive and procedural overload that many new perioperative nurses experience during their transition to independent practice.

Read Infection Control Today for more AORN26 coverage.

Building Confidence and Competence

Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Nurses report increased confidence in their abilities, improved understanding of surgical workflows, and a smoother transition into clinical roles.

Equally important is the program’s emphasis on creating a supportive learning environment. By encouraging questions and fostering strong relationships between educators and learners, the bootcamp helps reduce anxiety and build trust.

This psychological safety is critical in perioperative settings, where hesitation or uncertainty can impact both efficiency and patient outcomes.

Addressing Systemic Challenges in Perioperative Education

The Scrub Bootcamp also tackles broader issues within perioperative training. Inconsistent precepting, differences across service lines, and limited opportunities for hands-on practice have long been barriers to effective onboarding.

By standardizing key elements of training and tailoring content to specific surgical specialties, the program provides a more consistent and reliable pathway to competency.

This approach aligns with the growing recognition that perioperative education must evolve to meet the increasing complexity of surgical care.

A Scalable Model for Health Systems

One of the most compelling aspects of the Scrub Bootcamp is its scalability. The framework can be adapted across specialties and institutions, making it a practical solution for health systems looking to strengthen their perioperative workforce.

As staffing challenges continue to impact surgical services, programs that accelerate competency while maintaining safety are particularly valuable.

For infection prevention professionals, the implications are clear. Well-trained perioperative staff is essential to maintaining sterile technique, reducing variability in practice, and ultimately preventing surgical site infections.

Strengthening the Future OR Workforce

The Scrub Bootcamp presented at AORN 2026 offers a promising model for closing knowledge gaps and preparing perioperative nurses for the demands of the operating room.

By combining hands-on training, structured assessment, and a supportive learning environment, the program not only builds technical skills but also fosters confidence and resilience.

As health systems continue to invest in workforce development, initiatives like this highlight the importance of targeted, practical education in supporting both staff success and patient safety.