The Compassionate Pause: Bringing Presence and Purpose to the OR

In this episode of Micro Moments with Peter, we’re joined by Dr. Juan Moldes, Pediatric surgeon and urologist at University Hospitals, whose act of leadership is inspiring a ripple effect across surgical teams. The operating room can be one of the most intense and emotional spaces in healthcare. But Dr. Moldes sensed something was missing. That led to the creation of the Surgical Compassionate Pause. A brief, intentional moment of reflection taken with the whole team just before an incision. It’s not long. Just a deep breath. A shared moment of presence. A quiet return to purpose, courage, and care. This practice has become rocket fuel across University Hospitals, igniting energy, unity, and compassion among clinical teams. Tune in to hear how one small pause is changing the way surgeries begin and the way people show up for each other.