about the author
Joanne Oliver Coleman
Joanne Oliver Coleman is a highly experienced perioperative nurse, educator, and leader who has dedicated her career to advancing surgical care and patient safety. With decades of hands-on experience in the operating room, she has worked across clinical practice, leadership, and education, gaining a deep understanding of how perioperative nursing has evolved over time.
Throughout her career, Joanne has been closely involved in the transformation of surgical environments. She has witnessed the shift from manual processes and limited resources to today’s technology-driven operating rooms. This firsthand experience allows her to speak with authority on both the history and future of perioperative practice.
Joanne has also contributed to the profession through education, advocacy, and professional development. She has supported initiatives that strengthen nursing competencies, improve safety standards, and expand the role of perioperative nurses in modern healthcare. Her work reflects a strong commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses for an increasingly complex surgical landscape.
As an active contributor to the perioperative community, Joanne has collaborated with professional organizations and helped promote best practices in the operating room. Her involvement with initiatives focused on education and policy highlights her dedication to improving outcomes for both patients and healthcare teams.
Flintstones to Jetsons is a reflection of her lifelong commitment to the field. In this book, she brings together history, real-world experience, and professional insight to tell the story of how perioperative nursing has shaped modern surgery. Her goal is to inform, inspire, and highlight the essential role nurses play in every successful procedure.

