Ethical, emotional and interprofessional dimensions of operating room accreditation: A literature review and conceptual framework

Abstract

Operating room accreditation systems typically emphasise technical compliance such as infection control and procedural checklists, but often overlook human dimensions of care. This literature review aimed to inform the development of a conceptual framework that expands operating room accreditation beyond technical metrics, integrating psychosocial and ethical dimensions such as ethical climate, psychological safety and interprofessional collaboration. A narrative policy review and conceptual synthesis was conducted with empirical studies, international guidelines and interdisciplinary practice papers from 2020-25. Five thematic gaps in existing models of operating room accreditation systems were identified: ethical behaviour; emotional wellbeing; non-physician voices; simulation-based ethical training; and support for caregivers. These themes were used to outline an alternative model, taking a more comprehensive and human-centered approach in order to foster professional ethics, interprofessional collaboration and a safer surgical environment.. © 2026 MA Healthcare Ltd. All rights reserved.