Plastic Surgery Registered Nurse

Description

JOB SUMMARY

The Registered Nurse (RN) assists plastic surgery providers with in-office and procedural-based care to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality patient outcomes. Responsibilities include patient assessment, procedural preparation and assistance, monitoring during procedures, patient education, and post-procedure care. The RN promotes patient safety, maintains sterile technique, and supports an exceptional patient experience while ensuring compliance with clinical standards and regulatory requirements. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• Prepare patients for procedures by obtaining medical history, vital signs, and informed consent verification.
• Assist providers during plastic and cosmetic procedures including excisions, lesion removals, scar revisions, injectables, laser treatments, and minor reconstructive procedures.
• Maintain sterile field and assist with surgical instrumentation and supplies.
• Monitor patients during procedures, recognizing and responding to changes in condition.
• Provide wound care, dressing application, and post-procedure instructions.
• Educate patients on pre- and post-procedure care, recovery expectations, and medication use.

Procedural & Clinical Operations

• Prepare procedure rooms and ensure proper functioning of equipment and supplies.
• Assist with local anesthesia administration per provider direction and state regulations.
• Handle specimens according to protocol and ensure proper labeling and documentation.
• Maintain inventory and stock procedural supplies.
• Ensure proper cleaning, sterilization, and turnover of procedure rooms.

Patient Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to infection control standards, OSHA guidelines, and safety protocols.
• Ensure accurate documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
• Maintain patient confidentiality and HIPAA compliance.
• Respond to medical emergencies and assist with emergency preparedness protocols. 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of practice.
• BLS certification required; ACLS preferred.
• Minimum 1–2 years of procedural, surgical, dermatology, plastics, or outpatient clinical experience preferred.
• Experience with cosmetic procedures and laser safety is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of sterile technique and procedural nursing practices.
• Ability to monitor patient status and respond to complications.
• Excellent patient education and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain patient comfort and privacy in a cosmetic care environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced procedural setting.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Stand for extended periods during procedures.
• Assist with positioning patients safely.
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
• Perform fine motor tasks and operate clinical equipment.
• Maintain visual acuity for procedural assistance.