Implementing Best Practices for Effective Communication in the Perioperative Setting

Effective communication in the perioperative setting is essential for patient safety, care quality, and team effectiveness. Patient-centered interactions help nurses understand patient needs, build trust, and improve health outcomes. Clear communication among surgical teams reduces errors and fosters collaboration, especially in high-stakes situations. Peplau’s Interpersonal Relations Theory enables nurses to strengthen therapeutic relationships with patients and colleagues, especially when combined with cognitive rehearsal. Nurses using structured protocols like the situation, background, assessment, and recommendation and standardized perioperative tools and guidelines possess enhanced communication skills, making the transfer of care efficient.