OR Manager Conference opens with compelling keynote

Editor's Note

The annual OR Manager Conference kicked off on September 21 with a moving keynote address on compassionate caregiving. Marcus Engel, MS, CSP, author of The Other End of the Stethoscope, survived a car accident that left him permanently blind but eternally grateful for his healthcare providers. His experience serves as a poignant reminder of the crucial role nurses play in a patient’s recovery.

The comfort Engel took from hearing his caregiver say “I’m here” on the night of the accident inspired him to write the book, I’M HERE: Compassionate Communication in Patient Care, and to launch the “I’m Here Movement,” a nonprofit dedicated to helping healthcare professionals comfort patients by simply being present (www.ImHereMovement.org).

Engel has written several other books on how healthcare professionals can help patients retain their dignity and independence on the road to recovery. He reminded OR nurse leaders to model compassion each day and be present for their staffs and patients alike.

The keynote presentation was sponsored by Smith & Nephew.