University Medical Center New Orleans created an innovative perioperative simulation laboratory to transform orientation for medical students, surgical technologists, nurses and residents through hands-on, low-risk practice of core operating room skills. Built in a dedicated space using retired surgical instruments, expired supplies and repurposed equipment, the lab allows learners to rehearse scrubbing, gowning, gloving, maintaining sterile fields and opening surgical supplies before entering high-stakes clinical environments. Surveys show more than 90% of participants are satisfied with the orientation experience, with learners reporting higher engagement and empowerment and perioperative staff demonstrating increased confidence in the operating room. The program intentionally breaks down silos by bringing residents, nurses, surgical technologists and attending physicians together in simulation sessions, strengthening mutual respect, communication and patient safety. The medical center also redirects excess supplies to mission trips and veterinary clinics, and has instituted annual boot camps for surgical residents alongside expanded training for new perioperative staff. Featured in the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses Journal’s periop briefing in 2025, the program is expanding into specialty-specific boot camps in vascular, neurology and orthopedics.
