Redefining the future of perioperative nursing education: a conceptual framework

Perioperative nursing is practiced in a technologically advanced, fast-paced environment, and there is a continuing shortage of qualified and competent perioperative nurses. The expansion of nursing education programs into web-based environments has the potential to address this shortage. Online learning is both effective and efficient and particularly appropriate for adult learners compared with traditional, lecture-style programs. This article proposes a conceptual framework that combines social constructivism, Benner's Novice to Expert theory, and the principles of adult learning to provide a basis for the design and implementation of future perioperative curricula. Although the proposed framework needs to be questioned and empirically tested through research, the application of this framework could potentially shift the quality of perioperative education to a higher level and result in safer, more highly reliable patient care.