Perioperative Nurses Week 2024
Official 'Welcome to Perioperative Nurses Week' message from the Board of Directors, RACS, ANZCA and sponsors.
Perioperative Nurses Week is a time to reflect on the incredible impact each of you make in the world of health care. You are the unsung heroes of surgery, ensuring the seamless orchestration of procedures and the wellbeing of those under your care. However, your dedication to precision, care and patient well-being does not go unnoticed!
This week is a reminder to acknowledge not just the tasks you perform but the heart and passion you bring to your profession. Embrace this week as a celebration of your journey, your expertise and the positive impact you have on countless lives. Take a moment to recognise the strength that comes from unity within the perioperative nursing community.
In 2024, the theme is U.N.I.T.E.
Unify – bring your team together
Novice – mentor a novice nurse
Inspire – inspire improvement and innovation
Talk – it's OK to talk
Exhale – take time to breathe out
Perioperative Nurses Week 2024 Awards
Winners will be contacted after this release to arrange delivery of prizes.
Resources and downloads
Decorations
Download your PNW2024 bunting to display in your perioperative department tearoom or education spaces. You can download either the condensed version: PNW2024 or the full version: Perioperative Nurses Week 2024 bunting.
Perioperative Nurses Week 2024 bunting
Poster of the week's themes
Make sure to download the poster to put up around your perioperative departments, on your education boards and in your tearoom. Scroll down to see a preview of the PNW 2024 poster.
G.L.U.E Award nomination form
Please use the e-Form link below to nominate for the 2024 ACORN G.L.U.E. Awards. These awards acknowledge special nurses who keep the team together 'like glue'. Colleagues who are genuine, make you laugh, are unique, and above all, show empathy. Nominations must be ACORN members to progress to the shortlisting stage.
G.L.U.E. Awards nominations are now closed.
These awards are proudly sponsored by 
Perioperative-themed crossword
Download your free perioperative-themed crossword for fun tearoom activities or for use in local competitions.
Daily activity resources
Monday - Unify
In any great endeavour, teamwork is the foundation of success. When we come together as a unified team, we amplify our strengths and create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Let's celebrate the power of collaboration, communication and mutual respect. Whether it's through team-building activities, shared goals or simply checking in on one another, every effort counts. If you are organising a 'speed-dating' or 'get to know your colleagues' activity for Monday's theme of Unify, try using our sample ice-breaker sample questions to get the conversations flowing. Download your copy below.
Tuesday - Novice
Mentoring is a powerful way to share knowledge, inspire growth and build lasting connections within our community. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, your experiences can shape the future of our field. Let's lift each other up through guidance, support and shared wisdom. Download your 'Support a novice' sign-up sheet below in preparation for Tuesday's theme.
Support a Novice - Sign up sheet
Wednesday - Inspire
In our ever-evolving environment, it's the spark of inspiration that fuels innovation. Each new idea, collaboration and creative solution brings us closer to improving patient care and enhancing our practices. Let's celebrate the visionaries amongst us - those who challenge the status quo and inspire change. Looking for inspiration? Check out the graduation ceremony of the 2023 Perioperative Mentorship Program graduation where participants presented their innovation projects and inspired change!
This day is proudly sponsored by 
2023 ACORN PMP project presentations (Video)
Thursday - Talk
Communication is key to our mental and emotional health. Taking the time to talk about our feelings, challenges and triumphs can create stronger connections and foster a supportive community. Whether it's with a friend, a colleague or a mental health professional, sharing our thoughts can lighten our load and provide new perspectives.
Remember, you're never alone on your journey! Let's make a commitment to check in with ourselves and each other. Invite your local EAP representative to visit the department or visit the links below.
Friday - Exhale
In our fast-paced world, taking a moment to pause and breathe can make a world of difference. Mindfulness and deep breathing are powerful tools for reducing stress, enhancing focus and promoting overall wellbeing. Did you see the wonderful webinar presented by Martine Beaumont (CEO Select Wellness) in 2023? If not, you can watch below.
Taking breaks - the best tool to improve your wellbeing (Video)
Some mindful colouring can also been a wonderful tool for reducing stress and focusing your mind. Try this 2024 Perioperative Nurses Week colouring page. Perhaps hold a colouring art display in your unit and showcase the amazing creations of your colleagues.
This day is proudly sponsored by 
