National recognition for Southern perioperative nurse

Deb, District Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) Perioperative Services, was recognised at the Australian College of Perioperative Nurses (ACORN) 2026 International Conference in Brisbane last week.

She received the ACORN National Excellence in Perioperative Nursing (EiPN) Individual Award and was also recognised as an ACORN Fellow. These honours recognise nurses who make a significant and lasting difference to patient care.

Deb said the recognition came as a surprise.

“It was rather exciting for me to be recognised by my peers and granted what is considered to be the highest award able to be given to a perioperative nurse. I am very honoured and very humbled,” Deb said.

“I cannot recall anything said as I was a little overwhelmed!”

Deb also presented at the conference, sharing her work on how maternity and operating theatre teams can work together to improve the experience for women having a caesarean section, including using a personalised birth plan.

Deb has worked in perioperative nursing since 1988 and has spent much of her career supporting health services in rural and regional NSW. She is known for her leadership and her commitment to supporting staff, education and service improvement across the district.

The conference also highlighted local expertise from Southern, with District Sterilising Services Manager Roel Castillo presenting on the safe reprocessing of reusable medical devices. 

Deb also contributes to healthcare improvement across NSW through her work with ACORN and the Agency for Clinical Innovation, helping ensure rural and regional communities are represented in planning and policy.

Congratulations, Deb!