Videos
Colorectal Cancer Surgery: principles and types
The main principles of colorectal cancer surgery and the most common options for surgery based on anatomical location of the cancer. Watch video . . .
Webinar on rectal cancer: anatomical and technical basics of Total Mesorectal Excision (TME)
This webinar from IRCAD (Research Institute Against Digestive Cancer) offers in-depth education about and demonstration of Total Mesorectal Excision, a procedure in which a length of bowel located around a tumor is removed. Watch video . . .
Learning Laparoscopic Sigmoid Colectomy (High Anterior Resection)
An instructional video on how to perform a laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy (high anterior resection). The video focuses on technical aspects of the surgery. Watch video . . .
On a Lighter Note
While we’re at it, I can’t resist recommending an enjoyable and educational book, written for the layperson, that explores all kinds of questions about human digestion and elimination.
Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal, is by Mary Roach, dubbed by the Washington Post “America’s Funniest science writer.”
“Why is crunchy food so appealing?” reads the Amazon blurb about this book. “Why is it so hard to find words for flavors and smells? Why doesn’t the stomach digest itself? How much can you eat before your stomach bursts? Can constipation kill you? Did it kill Elvis? In Gulp we meet scientists who tackle the questions no one else thinks of?or has the courage to ask.” Read more . . .
Cleaning & Care of Surgical Instruments Crossword Puzzle
Test your knowledge of cleaning and care of surgical instruments with this month’s crossword puzzle.
When you’re ready to check your answers, follow this link to see how well you did. Good luck!
Graduate Spotlight: Kaitlyn Keim
Credentials
RN, BSN
Student Status
Graduated from NIFA’s RNFA program 12/18/18
City & State
Millstadt, IL
Current Position
RN Circulator/RNFA student at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital
Where did you get your RN degree?
Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville
How did you come to choose perioperative nursing?
I started nursing on labor and delivery and obtained a lot of experience as an OR circulator for C-sections, hysterectomies, and other female reproductive surgeries. I fell in love with the OR.
What is the scariest moment you’ve ever seen at the table?
My scariest moment as a circulator was having a mom with a uterine abruption which turned into a 5-liter blood loss situation—baby and mom survived!
What is one technique or RNFA trick you’ve learned from NIFA that you will use for life?
I learned so much at the workshop and am so glad I attended! Dean was an amazing teacher and I am so thankful for him to share his knowledge and experiences with us! Subcuticular stitching will be very useful.
How do you feel having your RNFA will impact your life/career?
I can’t wait to start my new career! I think RNFA gives me a set of special skills that will make me stand out in my career.
NIFA – Office Hours
Monday-Thursday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Friday, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Practice Resources
Here are several of the most-in-demand sites for our students, prospective students and grads:
MD Edge Surgery: Specialty News and Commentaries, Videos and More
RNFA Scope of Practice by State (PDF)
ACS List of Cases that Require an Assistant at Surgery, 2016 (PDF)
Perioperative Nurse Links (state nursing boards & professional associations)
APRN Nurse Links
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this newsletter are strictly those of their respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of NIFA. NIFA does not give any express or implied warranty as to the accuracy of statements made by our contributors and does not accept any liability for error or omission. It is the responsibility of all perioperative personnel to work within and adhere to their facility bylaws and individual scope of practice.
