The evolution of robotics in surgery and implementing a perioperative robotics nurse specialist role

ABSTRACT
- USE OF ROBOTICS is expanding rapidly in the medical arena. Not only are a growing number of facilities purchasing robotic systems, but the number of surgeons using them also is increasing, which creates many challenges (eg, cost, training, safety).
- THE EVOLUTION of robotics in surgery is presented within the context of virtual reality, telepresence, telemanipulation, and passive (ie, master-slave) robotic surgical systems.
- A NEW PERIOPERATIVE NURSING ROLE, the robotics nurse specialist, was developed and implemented at one facility. The need for a robotics nurse specialist and how this role can help the entire surgical team promote positive patient and facility outcomes also is discussed. AORN J 83 (March 2006) 630-650.