Impact of Specialty-Trained Perioperative Nurses on Operative Time, Costs, and Complications in Otolaryngologic Surgery.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the association between perioperative nurse specialization and operative time, costs, postoperative complications, and surgical success in otolaryngologic procedures.

DESIGN

A retrospective observational study.

METHODS

The study included 262 otolaryngologic surgeries performed by a single surgeon at a tertiary center. Procedures assisted by perioperative nurses specialized in otolaryngologic surgery were compared with those assisted by perioperative nurses from other surgical specialties. Multivariable linear, log-linear, and logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between nurse specialization and surgical outcomes, adjusting for procedure type and patient age.

FINDINGS: Procedures assisted by nurses from other surgical specialties were associated with longer operative time (+23.0 min, 95% CI: 13.6-32.5; p < 0.001), higher operative costs (+64%, 95% CI: 13.5%-137.0%; p = 0.008), and increased odds of postoperative complications (OR 3.36, 95% CI: 1.30-8.66; p = 0.012). No significant association was observed between nurse specialization and surgical failure (p = 0.756).

CONCLUSIONS

Perioperative nurse specialization was independently associated with improved surgical efficiency and lower complication rates in otolaryngologic procedures. These findings emphasize the clinical significance of perioperative nursing expertise in enhancing surgical outcomes and patient safety. Specialty-focused perioperative staffing models may be an effective approach to improving perioperative care and supporting safer surgical practice.