P*R*A*I*S*E: professional recognition for achievement in surgical excellence.

1. Professional medical organizations must have a well-defined and properly planned system for rewarding nurses. It must be fair to everyone and reward specific accomplishments. 2. Rewarding OR nurses for working in a highly specialized area and giving them recognition for their contributions and professionalism is important to nurses, patients, and the organization. Such positive reinforcement results in a heightened sense of satisfaction among nurses and loyalty to their organizations. 3. In an era of cost cutting and increased competition among hospitals in employing quality nurses, P*R*A*I*S*E can be an effective method of recruiting and retaining nurses.