October 21, 2025 "Air Quality and Surgical Site Infection" Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the third-most common class of healthcare-associated infections. A low concentration of viable bacteria in the operating room (OR) is known to be an important factor in preventing SSIs. Factors that influence the level of airborne bacteria in hospital air require careful management, particularly in the OR. The accepted international definition of ultra-clean is air that contains less than 10 colony-forming units per cubic meter (CFU per /m3) and has a corresponding surface contamination rate of 350 CFU/m2h. ORs are over-pressurized by at least 15 pascal (Pa) relative to adjacent sites to prevent the penetration of potentially contaminated outside air into the OR. The air quality in the OR critically depends on the air delivery and filtration system and the characteristics of the air exchange in the OR. Within the OR, three airflow patterns can be distinguished, namely turbulent flow, horizontal laminar flow, and vertical laminar flow. Vertical laminar flow can be delivered via a variety of technologies, of which the single large diffuser is the most effective at protecting the sterile field from airborne bacterial contamination. The number of airborne particles increases with the number of people in the OR and with their movements and the number of door openings. LEARNER OBJECTIVES: After completing this continuing education activity, the participant should be able to: 1. Explain the mechanisms by which airborne contaminants are spread. 2. Interpret quantitative measures of air quality in the operating room. 3. Develop strategies for the control of air quality in the operating room. 4. Integrate measures for the prevention of airborne infection in the operating room into their practice. Presented by: Lena Fogle, BSN, RN, CNOR Sponsored by Steris

ORNAO Webinar: “Your Hands Matter” Presented by: Aline Titizian, RN, BScN, CPN(C) – Clinical Specialist Aline joined Medline Canada in April 2022 with almost 30 years of perioperative nursing experience. During her tenure in the operating room, Aline held various roles, such as a staff nurse, Practice Leader, Interim Educator, and Clinical Support Nurse. She was also involved in numerous Quality Improvement initiatives, and policy development. Sponsored by Medline

Tuesday, June 17, 2025 This presentation outlines key evidence-based strategies that healthcare organizations should prioritize when implementing national and global guidelines for surgical site infection (SSI) prevention in surgery. It emphasizes the critical role of adhering to core infection prevention protocols and explores essential elements of successful SSI reduction programs. The session highlights the value of staff education, interdisciplinary teamwork, effective communication, and proper wound-care practices. It also reviews the best practices for antimicrobial prophylaxis, including optimal timing of administration. In addition, it presents a process for monitoring and reporting SSIs and underscores the importance of continuously evaluating and adjusting infection prevention strategies as needed. Participants will gain practical tools to help translate published SSI guidelines into daily clinical practice, with a focus on improving outcomes in surgery. Presented by Johnson & Johnson MedTech

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Speakers: Michele Dodds, RN Maria Pacaldo RN, BScN Sponsored by Intuitive

April 15, 2025 Speaker: Diane B Kimsey, MSN, MHA, RN, CNOR(E), WTA Learning objectives: - Understand the prevalence of pressure injuries and the importance of adopting new practices to prevent pressure injuries in the OR. - Accurately identify patients at high risk for pressure injuries. - Identify strategies for sustaining long term continues compliance to pressure injury prevention measures.

February 18, 2025 Presented by Krysta Mino, BScN, RN Sponsored by Zimmer Biomet Ontario