Circulating Nurse

Job Summary:

The circulating nurse is a registered nurse responsible for coordinating and managing the care of patients during surgical procedures. They ensure the safety and comfort of the patient, maintain a sterile environment in the operating room, and assist the surgical team in various capacities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Patient Preparation:

• Verify patient identity, surgical site, and procedure.
• Educate patients and families about the surgical process and answer their questions.
• Ensure the patient's safety and comfort before and after the surgery.

1. Operating Room Setup:

• Prepare and organize the operating room with sterile instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Verify the functionality of surgical equipment and devices.
• Maintain aseptic technique throughout the procedure.

1. Assistance During Surgery:

• Assist the surgical team by passing instruments, sutures, and other supplies as needed.
• Maintain an accurate count of surgical instruments and supplies to prevent foreign body retention.
• Monitor the patient's vital signs and response to anesthesia.
• Document all aspects of the procedure, including the surgeon's instructions and any complications.

1. Patient Advocacy:

• Advocate for the patient's needs and safety during the surgery.
• Ensure the surgical team follows proper infection control protocols.
• Address any concerns or issues that arise during the procedure.

1. Communication:

• Maintain clear communication with the surgical team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and scrub nurses.
• Relay pertinent information about the patient's condition to the recovery room staff.

1. Post-Operative Care:

• Assist with transferring the patient to the recovery room.
• Provide post-operative care instructions to the patient and family.
• Hand over care responsibilities to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) or recovery room nursing staff.

Qualifications:

• Current and valid registered nurse (RN) license.
• BLS (Basic Life Support) and ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification.
• Previous experience in perioperative nursing is preferred.
• Knowledge of surgical procedures, aseptic technique, and infection control.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.