EORNA Mission and Objectives

EORNA exists to enhance and develop perioperative patient care across Europe. Our work is guided by three core aims and six strategic pillars, spanning community, governance, education, ethics, science and standards.

EORNA (European Operating Room Nurses Association) is dedicated to elevating the standards of perioperative nursing through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Our mission is to be the unified voice of perioperative nurses in Europe, promoting excellence in patient care and professional recognition.

Our Core Mission

EORNA exists to enhance and develop perioperative patient care across Europe. We achieve this by:

  • Advocating for Perioperative Nurses: Representing the interests and professional standing of perioperative nurses throughout Europe.

  • Promoting High Standards of Care: Ensuring the delivery of optimal nursing care in the perioperative environment.

  • Upholding Ethical Practices: Implementing and promoting ethical standards in perioperative nursing.

  • Advancing Scientific Research: Encouraging the application of scientific research to improve perioperative care.

  • Standardising Education: Harmonising perioperative nursing education across member countries.

  • Fostering Collaboration: Building partnerships with organisations sharing related interests.

  • Ensuring Safe Environments: Promoting safe and healthy perioperative environments for both patients and staff.

Strategic Objectives

To realise our mission, EORNA focuses on the following strategic objectives:

1. Community & Representation

EORNA represents the unified voices of the perioperative field in Europe by integrating nurses, practitioners, actors, and organisations with related interests. We provide a platform and network for members in an open and honest environment.

2. Governance & Leadership

EORNA empowers perioperative nursing in Europe and defines good perioperative leadership. We aim to strengthen the governance structures within member associations to ensure effective representation and advocacy.

3. Education & Professional Development

EORNA is committed to improving the impact of our association through key activities and meetings. We develop and sustain a high degree of education amongst all member countries, ensuring that perioperative nurses have access to continuous professional development opportunities.

4. Ethics & Patient Safety

EORNA promotes perioperative care, reinforces patient safety, and contributes to the well-being of the community. We adopt the International Council of Nurses (ICN) code of ethics and advocate for its implementation in perioperative settings

Our Impact

Since its inception in 1980, EORNA has been at the forefront of advancing perioperative nursing in Europe. With 24 member associations across 23 countries, we continue to influence policy, enhance education, and improve patient outcomes through collaborative efforts and shared expertise.