November 2025 • Volume 18, No. #11
From the Editor
The explosion in AI capabilities over the last several years is not only transforming robot-assisted surgery, which has been around since 1985, but also bringing other new technology, approaches, successes and dilemmas to the OR. We’ll look at some of them in this issue.
Our Student in the Spotlight is David Shane Angelo, APRN, MSN, AGACNP-BC, LP, of Tyler, TX.
With Thanksgiving in mind, we are grateful to you, our community, for the care you bring to your work every day and your determination to learn and grow. We wish each of you a peaceful and rewarding holiday filled with moments that help you remember what’s really important.
Enjoy!
Julie Lancaster, Editor
Photo by ipopba on Adobe Stock
AI News in Surgery
Robots and AI Are Rewriting the Future of Surgery
Robotics combined with AI are moving beyond simply “robotic arms controlled by a human surgeon” toward systems that can assist with decision-making, vision enhancement, image analytics and workflow optimization. Can fully autonomous procedures be on the horizon? At the very least, surgical teams will increasingly interact with augmented systems for pre-op, intra-op and post-op processes. All these changes can raise ethical, workflow, reimbursement, regulatory and safety issues. This September 2025 article from Forbes explores the related opportunities and challenges. Read More . . .
AI-Powered Imaging Tool Enhances Detection of Surgical Site Infections
An August 2025 article from Mayo Clinic features an AI-imaging tool that improves early detection of surgical site infections (SSIs). Why this matters: SSIs are a major concern in postoperative care, and anything that aids earlier detection or better triage can impact nursing surveillance, wound care protocols, documentation, and outcomes. Read More . . .
Robot That Watched Surgery Videos Performs with Skill of Human Doctor
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a surgical robot that learns to perform tasks by watching videos of experienced surgeons rather than being explicitly programmed step by step. Trained through imitation learning using footage from wrist-mounted cameras on Da Vinci Surgical System consoles, the robot was able to perform essential procedures such as needle manipulation, tissue lifting and suturing with skill levels comparable to human surgeons. Read More . . .
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AI and the Perioperative Nurse
How AI Is Transforming Perioperative Nursing — Insight from the Front Lines
This blog post by Janice Kelly, MS, RN, NI-BC, President, AORN Syntegrity, explores why AI matters for perioperative nurses, the challenges it presents, and how healthcare organizations can harness its potential to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
Artificial Intelligence in Surgical Education and Training: Opportunities, Challenges and Ethical Considerations
AI has the potential to revolutionize surgical education and training, providing trainees with a safe and effective way to gain hands-on experience. This article looks at some of the challenges that stand in the way of fully integrating AI into surgical education and training programs. May 2023, International Journal of Surgery.
Read More . . .
The Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Surgical Nursing: Opportunities and Challenges
AI technologies such as machine learning, robotics, and predictive analytics can assist surgical nurses and enable them to provide more personalized and efficient care. This article examines some of the challenges faced in AI adoption, such as the need for adequate training, ethical concerns, resistance to change, cost implications, and legal and regulatory considerations. Sept. 2025, Journal of Surgical Nursing and Allied Health Sciences. Read More . . .
Photo by Have a nice day on Adobe Stock
Videos
How AI Is Transforming Perioperative Nursing — Insight from the Front Lines
Reimagining Surgery with AI-Driven Robotics
How are artificial intelligence and robotics transforming the future of surgery? This episode feature Dr. Roger Smith, PhD, Chief Strategist at Modelbenders. Dr. Roger Smith is a pioneering technology executive who has shaped innovation across healthcare, military simulation, and defense sectors. He and the podcast’s host, Chris Civitarese, explore the ways AI technologies are changing patient care across every phase of surgery. Watch now. . .
The Human Side of AI in Perioperative Nursing
This episode features Janice Kelly, MS, RN, NI-BC, President, AORN Syntegrity, who wrote a blog post referenced in the previous section of this newsletter. “AI is transforming the operating room, from pre-op planning to post-op recovery, but what does that mean for the nurses in perioperative care? AI may be the new tool, but nursing expertise remains foundational for a safe, successful surgery.” The discussion addresses reasons why some nurses hesitate to trust AI, real-world examples of AI in perioperative workflows, and how perioperative nurses can stay current with emerging technologies. Watch now. . .
In The Spotlight: David Shane Angelo
Credentials
APRN, MSN, AGACNP-BC, LP
Student Status
Current student in NIFA’s RNFA program
City & State
Tyler, TX
Current Position
Trauma – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
Where did you get your RN degree?
Excelsior University
How did you come to choose perioperative nursing?
After many years in EMS, ER, CVICU, and flight nursing, I found myself working as an NP in Trauma and Acute Care Surgery. I realized that while I’m well-versed in the pre-hospital, emergency-critical care and post-surgical aspects, I lack experience in the perioperative environment of trauma surgery. I now find myself wanting to bridge that gap and expand my abilities.
What is one technique or RNFA trick you’ve learned from NIFA that you will use for life?
Trauma stitch or horizontal mattress.
How do you feel having your RNFA will impact your life/career?
This is an excellent opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills to become a more well-rounded surgical NP. After all, shouldn’t we all be striving to be our best?
NIFA – Office Hours
Monday-Thursday, 8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm
Practice Resources
Here are several of the most-in-demand sites for our students, prospective students and grads:
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.
