The novice perioperative educator: perspectives and comments from mentors

Fulfilling the role of the perioperative educator can be a complex and overwhelming task. Complexity and anxieties are enhanced when the responsibilities of the perioperative educator are performed as an additional duty. This is especially true for the beginning educator. Developing a pool of resources and identifying mentors in the education arena can provide invaluable insight and support in performing the tasks of the position. This article investigates the feelings associated with performance of the duties of the peroperative educator from the perspective of a novice. Discussions with two mentors regarding the aspects of orientation, competency assessment, in-service training, and where to find additional information are summarized.