8 JULY 2025IN MY OPINIONMy journey to becoming the Clinical Director of Perioperative Services has been both unconventional and deeply rewarding. After an extensive and diverse career in human resources management, including owning a small HR consulting business, I made the decision to follow a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. This midlife career switch was not a decision I took lightly, but I knew it was the right path for me. I had always envisioned myself as a perioperative nurse and leader, and I was determined to make it a reality.During nursing school, I interned on weekends in the surgical department, immersing myself in the perioperative environment even before graduation. This hands-on experience solidified my passion for surgery and prepared me for the challenges ahead. In 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I officially began my nursing career as a circulator in the operating room. The pandemic brought immense challenges, but it also highlighted the critical role of teamwork and adaptability in surgical services. Drawing on my multifaceted skills from HR and my innate drive to lead, I quickly took on roles such as charge nurse, educator, and quality coordinator for perioperative services. Each role added a new layer of expertise and prepared me for the natural next step in my career: becoming a Clinical Director of Perioperative Services.A few pivotal moments have shaped my leadership style and philosophy. One of the most significant has been gaining real-life, hands-on experience in the perioperative environment. Starting as a circulator nurse during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic gave me an invaluable perspective on the complexities of surgical services. Being on the front lines during such a critical time taught me the importance of resilience, empathy, and effective communication. Leading through crises and navigating rapidly changing situations reinforced my belief that strong leadership is grounded in practical experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the team.Equally important has been keeping the patient at the center of all we do. In perioperative care, it is essential to view the patient as a whole person, considering their physical, emotional, and psychological needs. This perspective extends to recognizing the struggles of their families, who often face uncertainty and fear without the medical knowledge to understand what is happening. Supporting families through clear communication, empathy, and reassurance has become a core element of my leadership philosophy. Additionally, mentoring new nurses and stepping into roles like charge nurse and educator allowed me to see the profound impact of empowering others, further shaping my collaborative and servant-leadership approach.Looking ahead, I believe the perioperative sector is on the cusp of transformative change. Innovations in technology, Leading with Purpose: Insights and Innovations in Perioperative LeadershipBy Sara Daulong, BSN, RN CNOR, Director of Surgical Services, Lake Charles Memorial Health SystemSara Daulong
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