Looking back, moving forward

This year, the Association for Perioperative Practice (AfPP) celebrates 50 years of promoting standards in operating departments across the UK. During this time, the organisation has grown from just 10 members in Leeds, in 1964, to over 6,000 members throughout the UK and overseas. The AfPP remains committed to improving the skills and knowledge within operating departments, and to enhancing the quality of care throughout the UK. It has become an influential voice in championing patient safety and continues to campaign and educate on issues such as human factors and ‘speaking up and speaking out’.

History

Formerly the National Association of Theatre Nurses (NATN), the AfPP was founded by Daisy Ayris MBE – an ambitious and devoted theatre nurse who won a scholarship to visit hospitals in the US. During her time spent overseas, she met Miss Dee Hall, founder of the Association of Perioperative Registered Nurses (AORN) and attended the AORN Congress. Inspired by her visit, Daisy Ayris recognised the value of sharing best practice, networking and to gaining an understanding of the issues across UK hospitals. On returning to the UK, she set up the West Riding Branch of NATN.