AORN journal
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Technological advances in the OR create new practices and procedures; however, humanistic and holistic approaches to nursing care remain the foundation of clinical practice. Perioperative nurses recognize that family members experience anxiety during surgery, especially during the time the patient is in the OR. Ironically, it is during this time period that little or no meaningful communication occurs between family members and health professionals. ⋯ Using research findings as a basis for perioperative nursing practice may mean changing traditions and attitudes about family members of surgical patients. In the consumer-oriented climate of current health care, doing the "new" may make a difference in the market share. This "new" may be independent nursing interventions designed to reduce family members' anxiety during the intraoperative waiting period.