OR Registered Nurse--Circulator Full Time

LITTLETON REGIONAL HEALTHCARE

POSITION SUMMARY

Position Summary

The Operating Room Circulating Nurse is responsible for providing safe, effective, and individualized care to patients undergoing surgical or invasive procedures. The Circulator coordinates nursing care in the OR, ensuring adherence to hospital policies, safety protocols, and regulatory standards while supporting the surgical team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Pre-Operative Responsibilities

- Verify patient identity, surgical site, and consent according to established safety protocols.
 - Review preoperative assessments and communicate any concerns with the surgical team.
 - Ensure all equipment, supplies, and documentation are ready and available prior to case start.

Intraoperative Responsibilities

- Serve as the patient’s advocate throughout the surgical experience.
 - Monitor the OR environment for safety, sterility, and compliance with infection control standards.
 - Document intraoperative care accurately and in real time using the electronic health record (EHR).
 - Manage surgical counts, time-outs, and specimen handling per policy.
 - Communicate clearly with the surgical and anesthesia teams to ensure smooth workflow.

Post-Operative Responsibilities

- Assist with safe patient transfer to PACU or post-op care area.
 - Complete required documentation and communicate pertinent information to recovery staff.
 - Ensure the OR is cleaned, restocked, and prepped for the next procedure.

Professional Responsibilities

- Maintain current knowledge of perioperative best practices and hospital procedures.
 - Participate in continuing education, staff meetings, and skills validation.
 - Support quality and safety initiatives, including infection prevention and patient satisfaction efforts.
 - Precept and mentor new staff as assigned.

Certifications

- Current RN license in the state of New Hampshire (or compact license).
 - ACLS – Required
 - PALS – Required

 - CNOR – Preferred but not required

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements

- Fast-paced, high-acuity environment with potential exposure to blood, body fluids, and surgical instrumentation.
 - Requires standing for extended periods, lifting to 50 pounds, and full-body mobility.
 - Must be able to respond quickly and safely in urgent situations.
 - Rotating shifts, on-call, weekends, and holiday coverage required.

Approved: ______________________________________________ Date: ________________

Signed: ______________________________________ Date: _______________