What does an Operating Room Nurse do?
Published 4 min read
An operating room nurse is responsible for the care of patients before, during, and after surgery. They work with surgeons and other members of the surgical team to ensure that the patient is safe and comfortable during the procedure. After surgery, they help the patient recover by providing instructions on how to care for themselves at home.
Operating Room Nurse job duties include:
- Assess patients before and after surgery
- Administer medication and monitor patients for reactions
- Change dressings and clean wounds
- Check vital signs and monitor patients for any changes
- Record patient medical histories and update charts
- Prepare operating rooms for surgery by sterilizing equipment and setting up instruments
- Assist surgeons during procedures
- Transport patients to recovery room after surgery
- Monitor patients in recovery and report any changes to the surgeon
- Provide post-operative care and education to patients and their families
Operating Room Nurse Job Requirements
Operating Room Nurses must have a minimum of an Associate's Degree in Nursing, although many have a Bachelor's Degree. They must also be licensed as a Registered Nurse. Many Operating Room Nurses have certification in Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Some states also require certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support. Most Operating Room Nurses have at least one year of experience working in an Operating Room, although some have more than ten years of experience.
Operating Room Nurse Skills
- Time management
- Prioritization
- Delegation
- Communication
- Patient advocacy
- Patient education
- Emotional intelligence
- Conflict resolution
- Stress management
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
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How to become an Operating Room Nurse
Operating Room Nurses are responsible for providing nursing care to patients undergoing surgery. They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and surgical technologists to ensure that surgeries are performed safely and effectively. Operating Room Nurses must be able to think quickly and act decisively in order to provide the best possible care for their patients.
If you are interested in becoming an Operating Room Nurse, you will need to complete a registered nursing program and obtain a license to practice nursing in your state. Once you have obtained your nursing license, you will need to complete a surgical nursing program. Many hospitals offer these programs, or you can find them at community colleges or technical schools. After completing a surgical nursing program, you will be eligible to take the Certified Registered Nurse First Assistant (CRNFA) exam. This exam is required in order to work as an Operating Room Nurse in most states.
Operating Room Nurses must be able to handle the stress of working in a fast-paced environment and be able to make quick decisions when necessary. They must also have excellent communication skills and be able to work well as part of a team. If you are interested in becoming an Operating Room Nurse, research the requirements in your state and consider completing a surgical nursing program so that you can take the CRNFA exam.
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