OR Today’s recent cover story explores the rapid evolution of operating room technology—highlighting how innovations such as AI, smart analytics, and augmented reality are reshaping surgical care. Central to this transformation is the OR Black Box®, recognized as one of the most impactful advancements for improving patient safety and elevating team performance. By capturing objective intraoperative data and converting it into meaningful insights, the OR Black Box supports perioperative teams in reducing variation, strengthening communication, and optimizing workflows across the surgical environment.

AORN’s perioperative expert Tammy Hanks emphasizes the OR Black Box as a technology with “great potential to impact patient safety,” underscoring its value in supporting clinical education, documentation, and continuous quality improvement. As hospitals navigate rising surgical demand and increased expectations for transparency and safety, the OR Black Box stands out as a powerful tool that helps organizations enhance outcomes while building a culture of learning and high reliability.