Laughter and stress management in the OR.

1. The United States spends approximately $23 billion per year treating stress-related illnesses. Stress-related injuries comprise 15% of all occupational stress-related illnesses. 2. When stress is relieved, workers may use less sick time, OR departments may stem the tide of staff turnover, and nurses may improve interpersonal relations with other staff members and surgeons. 3. Humor shifts perspective, diffuses tensions/confrontations, conveys a complicated message concisely, increases flexibility, raises energy levels, wards off criticism, and builds a cohesive team unit.