Cross-training in the perioperative area

Cross-training is the process by which a staff member without previous experience is introduced to the goals, policies, procedures, role expectations, physical facilities, and special services in a new area. The goal of the cross-training is to assist the staff member in making a smooth transition into the new area while retaining original skills. Each institution has individual characteristics that influence the needs for a cross-training program. As individual institutions prepare to design cross-training programs, it is beneficial to have a model for program development. This article provides systematically constructed and logically related concepts required for development of cross-training programs.