Circulating OR Registered Nurse - Full Time - Somerset, NJ

About the Role

The Circulating Nurse plays a critical role in the operating room by ensuring a safe, efficient, and sterile environment during surgical procedures. This position involves coordinating with the surgical team to manage patient care before, during, and after surgery, while maintaining strict adherence to infection control protocols. The Circulating Nurse is responsible for preparing the operating room, verifying surgical instruments and supplies, and documenting all aspects of the procedure accurately. This role requires vigilance to anticipate the needs of the surgical team and respond promptly to any changes in patient status or surgical conditions. Ultimately, the Circulating Nurse contributes significantly to positive surgical outcomes and patient safety through expert coordination and communication.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) license in New Jersey.
• Completion of an accredited nursing program.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification.
• Prior experience in operating room environment.
• Prior Orthopedic experience.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) credential.
• Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in high-pressure surgical settings.

Responsibilities

• Prepare the operating room by ensuring all necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies are sterile and available.
• Assist in positioning the patient and ensuring patient safety and comfort throughout the procedure.
• Monitor the sterile field and maintain aseptic technique to prevent infection.
• Collaborate with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other team members to anticipate and fulfill intraoperative needs.
• Document all nursing care, surgical counts, and any intraoperative events accurately and timely.
• Respond promptly to emergencies or unexpected situations during surgery.
• Ensure compliance with hospital policies, safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

The Circulating Nurse utilizes strong organizational skills daily to prepare the operating room and manage surgical supplies efficiently. Effective communication skills are essential for coordinating with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other team members to ensure seamless patient care. Critical thinking and quick decision-making abilities are applied to anticipate surgical needs and respond to emergencies. Attention to detail is crucial for maintaining sterile fields and accurate documentation of surgical procedures. Additionally, proficiency with healthcare technology, including EMR systems, supports accurate record-keeping and enhances overall workflow.