ENC 2025

Barriers and Enablers in Entry Operating Room Nursing: A Mixed-Methods Study Background: Entry into Operating Room (OR) nursing in Australia predominantly occurs through employment-based pathways with on-the-job training, lacking standardised educational requirements or regulation. This study aims to identify the barriers and enablers influencing this entry pathway, with a focus on power dynamics affecting the specialty. Methods: An explanatory concurrent mixed methods design was used, combining data from an online survey of 226 OR nurses and a policy analysis to explore the influence of power asymmetries on entry pathways. Results: The study identifies significant power asymmetries and structural barriers that impact the recruitment and learning experiences of OR nurses. Key findings suggest a misalignment between current entry practices and the demands of the healthcare system, underscored by a lack of formalised training and educational pathways. Conclusions: Reframing entry pathways is needed to address the current and future demand for OR nurses. The study advocates for policy reforms to establish accredited educational qualifications and structured education programs aligned with international nursing standards.

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