Registered Nurse- Operating Room

Job Summary: 

The OR Nurse specializing in conscious sedation provides care to patients undergoing surgical or diagnostic procedures. They are responsible for safely administering moderate sedation, monitoring the patient’s vital signs, and ensuring the patient remains comfortable and responsive throughout the procedure. This role requires collaboration with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare team members. This position is PRN, days and times will be set by the surgical needs of the facility. 

 Key Responsibilities: 

1. Patient Preparation: 

•  Assess patient medical history, medications, and allergies before the procedure.
•  Explain the conscious sedation process to patients and their families, addressing any concerns.
•  Prepare the patient for sedation, ensuring the IV line and necessary equipment are ready.

2. Sedation Administration: 

• Administer sedation medications under the guidance of a physician or anesthesiologist.
• Monitor the patient’s level of consciousness, vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation), and response to stimuli.
• Adjust sedation levels to maintain the appropriate balance between comfort and alertness.

3. Intraoperative Monitoring: 

• Continuously monitor the patient’s condition during the procedure.
• Recognize and respond to any signs of distress, complications, or adverse reactions.
• Maintain detailed documentation of the patient’s status and the administered medications.

4. Post-Procedure Care: 

• Assist in the recovery of patients post-procedure, ensuring they are alert and oriented before discharge.
• Provide post-sedation care instructions to patients and their families.
• Monitor for delayed adverse reactions and coordinate with recovery staff for safe transfer.

5. Collaboration: 

• Work closely with the surgical and anesthesia team to ensure seamless patient care.
• Communicate changes in patient status or any concerns during the procedure promptly.

6. Compliance and Safety: 

• Adhere to hospital policies, safety protocols, and regulatory guidelines regarding sedation and patient care.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and ongoing education related to conscious sedation and patient safety.

Skills and Qualifications: 

• Education: Registered Nurse (RN) license with specialized training in conscious sedation.
• Experience: Prior experience in an OR, critical care, or procedural nursing environment preferred.

 Certifications: 

•   Basic Life Support (BLS)
•   Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
•   Conscious Sedation Certification 

 Skills:  

• Proficiency in IV sedation, patient monitoring, crisis management, and strong communication skills.

 Key Competencies: 

• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in high-stress, fast-paced environments.
• Strong patient advocacy and empathy.
• Attention to detail and precision in drug administration and patient monitoring.

Work Environment: 

• The OR Nurse typically works in hospitals, surgical centers, or outpatient surgery clinics.
• The job may involve long shifts, including nights, weekends, and on-call duty.

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to stand for long periods.
• May require lifting or moving patients and medical equipment.
• Exposure to bodily fluids and infectious diseases requires adherence to safety protocols.