RN - OR

POSITION SUMMARY

As Part of a multidisciplinary team, the perioperative nurse prepares patients for surgery, which includes preoperative assessment, identification of potential nursing diagnoses/interventions (physiological, safety, behavior/spiritual, and /or health systems). Safely transports patient to and from operating room for surgery. Positions the patient appropriately. Using aseptic techniques, prepares the patient’s skin. Monitors sterile technique. Assists anesthesia as needed and in all ways acts as an advocate for the patient who requires surgical or procedural intervention.

     TASK LETTER CODE

PRIMARY DUTIES

(Are the essential job tasks or primary responsibilities that the individual who holds the position mist be able to perform unaided or with the assistance of an accommodation. For example: “DO” (action verb) “WHAT” (object) – “Collects vitals from patients at the being of the visit according to clinic protocol”.

% OF TIME PERFORMING DUTY

A

Demonstrates clinical competency in assigned area of responsibility.

B

Supports the hospital medication administration competency programs, and seeks professional growth through continuing education and/or advanced professional certifications (AORN, ASPAN, CNOR, CGRN, PALS, etc.)

C

Demonstrates appropriate judgement in notifying/communicating with physicians.

D

Admits patients to the department of surgery according to hospital policy.

E

Performs initial preoperative assessments; ensures all consents are properly signed/witnessed. Monitors patients through the perioperative or other procedure process.

F

Observes standard precautions when starting IVs or as circumstances warrant.

G

Demonstrates awareness of patient safety issues with regard to transporting, positioning, or recovery of patients in the department and in accordance with hospital policy.

H

Positions patients according to procedure and prepares patient’s skin for surgery in accordance with physician preference and hospital standards.

I

Assists in maintaining correct count of instruments, sutures, and sponges.

J

Identifies and cares for specimens according to hospital policy.

K

Maintains aseptic technique, actively monitors situations which could lead to breaches in sterility.

L

Assists anesthesia as necessary for intubations, positioning of patient, administration of blood or other fluids, or other tasks as required.

M

Performs recovery of patients post operatively from general, regional anesthesia or intravenous sedation, including airway management, hemodynamic monitoring or other patient care responsibilities for the PACU in accordance with hospital policy.

N

Demonstrates competence and professionalism in setting up and assisting with endoscopic procedures such as EGD, Flex-Sig, Colonoscopy or Bronchoscopy.

O

Documents procedures/interventions in accordance with hospital guidelines.

P

Accurately compiles charges associated with procedures or recovery of patients who receive services from the surgical department.

Q

Administers and controls narcotics and medications. Dispenses medication appropriately according to policy.

R

Willing to accept charge nurse responsibilities as assigned delegating patient case as appropriate and making assignments to ensure department efficiency.

S

Adheres to departmental, hospital and medical chain of commands.

T

Demonstrates technical competency through annual equipment certification attending manufacturers’ sponsored in services and additional training as required.

U

Is resourceful and calm in emergencies

V

Supports the department by attending, and constructively contributing to staff or other meetings as able/necessary.

W

Maintains a clean, organized and safe working environment in both patient care areas and nursing station.

X

Participates in stocking, sorting, or inventory of departmental supplies to ensure appropriate items are readily available for patient care needs,

Y

Actively participates in the review of policies and procedures for the surgical department on an annual basis.

Z

Maintains harmonious relationship within the unit and with other departments, staff, physicians and other support personnel providing support and assistance to ensure quality patient care.

A-1

Participates in rotation of stand-by call and responds according to department policies and procedures.

B-1

Maintains confidentiality of all patient/staff information.

C-1

Performs other related duties as assigned or required.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM EDUCATION: Associate degree in nursing (from an accredited school of nursing)

PREFERRED EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in nursing

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE: 1 year nursing experience preferred

REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS: Current BLS, PALS, ACLS. Current nursing license

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS/LICENSES: CNOR preferred

SPECIAL SKILLS: The position of Perioperative Registered Nurse is identified as “department safety-sensitive”

1. Involves duties, which, if performed with inattentiveness, errors in judgement, or diminished coordination, dexterity, or composure, may result in mistakes that could present a real and/or imminent threat to the personal health and safety of the employee, co-worker, and/or patient.
2. Able to read, write and speak the English language in an understandable manner
3. Prefer previous experience as circulating RN and/or post anesthesia recovery experience
4. Ability and willingness to work harmoniously with professional and non-professional personnel
5. Ability to communicate clearly and tactfully with patients, their family and co-workers.
6. Ability to perform mathematical calculations for medication administration
7. Must be a role model of a professional nurse
8. Must be able to be on standby call and respond according to department policies and procedures.

SUPERVISES: N/A

PHYSICIAL DEMANDS: For physical demands and working conditions, see next page.