In my opinion, we have too many RNs working in the OR. LPNs could easily do the majority of the work. It's organization and planning work to a large degree (making sure proper equipment is avaliable, planning how to get the OR to run efficiently that day etc.). It's very important and doing it well is a skill but it isn't like you need core nursing skills to do it.
Part of the overall "shortage" hype is political/union rhetoric. We could improve the shortage by more efficiently using the RNs we have (like using more LPNs in the OR and putting the RNs in other areas that need RN skills) but the union would never allow it. As far as they are concerned the solution to all problems is to hire more RNs, even if it will do nothing to help the underlying problem. Increasing RN jobs and pay is the only union motivation. For politicians, increasing RN numbers plays well with the electorate, no matter if it helps or hinders the system. Stuff that plays well with the electorate gets you reelected, which gets you that sweet retired politician pension when you retire or are voted out.