Perioperative time capsule

40 YEARS AGO IN THE AORN JOURNAL

According to an article on surgical suite locker room design, personnel should don "some kind of freshly laundered operating suite costume" to avoid carrying bacteria into the OR. * One author reports that static electricity accounts for fire and explosion losses totaling Several hundred million dollars annually. * Commenting on her observation experience in an OR, a student nurse says she was pleased that the patient was the focal point for everyone in the room. * A nurse from England writes about her experience at AORN's 10th Congress. She was impressed with American hospitality and the unity of the members in a large country.

30 YEARS AGO IN THE AORN JOURNAL

The Journal announces its writers contest, for which the first place winner will receive $500. AORN members who had taken part in new procedures were encouraged to enter, and entries were required to be suitable for publication as clinical articles. * In "Speak Out," a nurse writes about commitment, saying nurses' first commitment is to patients. * The "Editorial" focuses on legislation and suggests that AORN chapters consider appointing a member to be a legislative reporter in an effort to become aware of legislation that affects nursing. * In "Q & A," a reader asks whether nurse anesthetists should adhere to the same dress code as other perioperative personnel. The reader is advised that they should.

20 YEARS AGO IN THE AORN JOURNAL

The Board of Directors approves the "no mail" option, meaning that Congress registrants can choose not to receive mail from Journal advertisers or Congress exhibitors. * In "OR Nursing Law," a reader asks where she stands legally when surgeons perform procedures prohibited by the hospital, considering that no laws are being broken. She is advised to report such breaches verbally and in writing to her supervisor. * According to a research study, limiting the movement of personnel in the OR may reduce surgical site contamination. * A physician advocates reducing levels of waste anesthetic gases by using efficient control measures because such gases may cause adverse health effects.

10 YEARS AGO IN THE AORN JOURNAL

Gun control is the subject of the "Editorial." After recounting the of a 10-month-old boy who was hit by a stray bullet fired by a gang member, the editor implores readers to help stop the "carnage in our streets and on our school playgrounds." * The theme for the 1994 Congress--Celebrate Caring--is announced. This Congress was held in New Orleans. * "Regulated medical waste definition and treatment: A collaborative document" is published. AORN hoped the document could be used to influence health care practices and environmental legislation. * In a classified advertisement for perioperative nurses, one hospital offers a $5,000 bonus and free prepaid tuition at an affiliated university.

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