Nicholas DeStefano is a Senior Nurse Manager of Surgical Services, where he leads a high‑volume, 18‑suite operating room supporting complex surgical specialties including robotics, orthopedics, neurosurgery, thoracic, vascular, bariatric, colorectal, ENT, plastics, urology, gynecology, and general surgery. He is recognized for calm leadership in high‑acuity environments and a data‑driven approach to operational excellence.

His perioperative career began in 2007 as a surgical aide and certified nursing assistant while attending nursing school. From that foundation, Nicholas advanced across the full continuum of care, including progressive care, stroke services, intensive care, post‑anesthesia care, and all major surgical specialties. This broad clinical background positioned him to help establish trauma services in Osceola County as the first trauma coordinator for surgical services.

During his tenure as trauma coordinator, Nicholas received multiple Life Saver Awards, including for managing a mass trauma while simultaneously circulating three operating rooms in the middle of the night, helping save three patients’ lives. These experiences continue to shape his leadership style, emphasizing precision, teamwork, and compassion under pressure.

As he transitioned into leadership, Nicholas grew into the role of Senior Nurse Manager at a tertiary hospital known for advanced surgical technology and innovation. In this role, he launched the emergency neurosurgical program, strengthened the environment of care, and implemented processes to improve efficiency while maintaining safety and trust.

Nicholas leads change through data, clarity, and human connection. He has implemented workflow optimization strategies, parallel processing models, and structured process improvements to enhance throughput, turnover efficiency, and on‑time starts. His current work includes AI‑supported workflow optimization, ensuring technology complements clinical judgment and team culture rather than replacing it.

Patient safety remains central to his leadership. Nicholas earned his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, graduating with Honors. For his capstone project, he partnered with infection prevention to reduce catheter‑associated urinary tract infections, resulting in over a full year of zero CAUTIs.

Outside of work, Nicholas enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, especially family trips to Central Florida water parks and vacations.